It’s hard to say no to a creamy scoop of rich vanilla ice cream on a summer day or a cloud of whipped cream melting over warm pancakes. But for many, dairy just isn’t cutting it anymore. Whether it’s due to lactose intolerance, allergies, environmental concerns, or simply feeling healthier without it, more and more people are making the switch. In fact, as of 2025, nearly half of Americans (47%) plan to eat more plant-based foods, and 45% are actively reducing their dairy intake. 1
The challenge? Not all dairy-free substitutes are created equal. While some alternatives for dairy products may seem like a healthy swap, many are packed with artificial ingredients, added sugars, or highly processed fillers. The great news is that there are plenty of healthy dairy alternatives that taste just as good, if not better, than the real thing.
If you’re looking for delicious, nutritious, and clean alternatives to dairy, you’re in the right place. From plant-based milks to dreamy whipped toppings, here are the best dairy alternative foods to add to your routine—plus one of our favorite swaps: hint, hint: Suja’s plant-based protein drinks (keep reading for the inside scoop)!
Best Dairy Alternatives: Opt for These Plant-Based Milk Substitutes Instead
To no surprise, around 65% of people experience an intolerance to lactose, which is why dairy-free, plant-based milk is on the rise!2 Nowadays, there’s a range of non-dairy milk options like almond, soy, coconut, hemp, macadamia, oat, pea, and more that still deliver on the nutrients! It simply comes down to your preferred flavor and “use” case for it. For example, some prefer oat milk in coffee because of its naturally thick and creamy profile. Let’s take a closer look at our top options on the market today.
Almond Milk
Noted as the most “popular” on our list, almond milk is one of those crowd pleasers due to its mild flavor and medium density. Whether you blend into your morning cup of joe, add a splash to baked goods, or pour into a morning smoothie, almond milk is nutty and decadent. It also provides a good source of vitamin E. 3
If you have the time and resources, we suggest making it yourself! All you have to do is soak almonds in water overnight, drain and rinse, blend the almonds with 4 cups of unfiltered water for around one minute, and strain in a cheesecloth! This is one of the best lactose-free substitutes for traditional milk—clean, simple, and nutrient-rich.
Coconut Milk
Craving something nutty with a tropical flair? Coconut milk should be at the top of your list! Its texture is naturally velvety-smooth, and it’s also packed with healthy fats to keep you satiated. We prefer the unsweetened, organic coconut milk to keep things simple, but if you’re planning to use it as part of a recipe, choosing a canned option is best!
Cashew Milk
As one of the most popular alternatives for dairy products, cashew milk makes a delicious and wholesome dairy-free substitute. Cashew milk takes that nutty flavor profile to new heights, and it’s also naturally sweet, making it another creamer contender for that morning cup of coffee!
If you buy cashew milk in the store, it’s often fortified with vitamins A, D, and B-12, plus calcium.4 But if you wanted to try to make this one at home, all you need to do is soak overnight, rinse, blend with filtered water, and sip.
Oat Milk
Oat milk has quickly become a major fan favorite when it comes to dairy-free alternatives, and for good reason. It’s slightly sweet, ultra-creamy, and made from just oats and water, though many store-bought versions are now fortified with crucial plant-based diet nutrients like calcium and vitamins like B12 and D.
Unlike some nut-based dairy substitutes, oat milk exhibits a neutral flavor that makes it ideal for a comforting latte. It’s also higher in carbohydrates and fiber, making it a more filling option for those who want extra fuel. It’s a good dairy substitute for both sweet and savory dishes, especially for those avoiding nuts.
Missing Cheese? Try This Surprising Dairy Substitute
Unfortunately, several dairy-free cheese options on the market can be super processed, often filled with soy, gums, or preservatives.5
Enter avocado…
Instead of sprinkling cheese on your salad, try sliced avocado to get the same creamy effect! Sliced or mashed avocado also makes a great alternative to melted cheese on bread, hamburgers, or even a grilled cheese sandwich.
A Dairy-Free Whipped Cream Alternative You’ll Love
Remember that whipped cream on top of a stack of pancakes we mentioned at the top? Well, you can still get that extra sweet treat with the BEST dairy-free whipped cream alternative. Cashew cream makes for a dreamy swap. It’s rich, creamy, brimming with healthy fats, and seriously one of the easiest things to assemble.
All you have to do is soak 1 cup of raw cashews in hot water for around 30 minutes, drain, and blend them up in 1 cup of water for around 1 minute. Think of this recipe as your cashew cream base — don’t be afraid to get creative with it.
For something a tad sweeter, add vanilla, a touch of honey or maple syrup, and a pinch of sea salt. For a savory option and something with a cheesy kick, blend in some nutritional yeast, lemon, garlic powder, sea salt, and ground black pepper.
Forget Sugary Yogurts—This Chia Pudding Is a More Nutritious Dairy Alternative
Dairy-free yogurts are popping up on store shelves nationwide. But, like most conventional dairy-free alternatives, these can often be full of processed ingredients and loads of sugar. If you’re craving that smooth and creamy yogurt in the morning, an incredible alternative is to make chia pudding. It’s easy, gut-friendly, and super nutritious.
Simply combine chia seeds and your favorite dairy-free milk alternative, let sit overnight, and voila! You can add whatever topping you’d like to your chia pudding, such as cacao powder, maca, fresh berries, sliced bananas, nut butter, etc.
Craving Ice Cream? Try These Divine Dairy-Free Treats
The latest trends show that consumption of dairy ice cream has been falling for years, from 1.5 billion gallons annually in 1999–2003 to 1.4 billion gallons in 2019–2023.6 And that’s likely because there are way more dairy-free ice creams on the market! Most popular include coconut milk-based ice creams since coconut milk emulates the real deal.
If you’re looking for fantastic dairy-free ice cream options, Whole Foods carries several, including Jeni’s dairy-free ice cream made with a delicious coconut cream base.7
But if you’re looking to make dairy-free ice cream from scratch, which is way more nutritious, give banana “nice cream” a try by just blending up frozen bananas in a blender! Top with a drizzle of almond butter, chopped nuts, or berries. Easy peasy.
Choose the Right Dairy Alternatives for a Healthier You
Going dairy-free doesn’t mean you have to say goodbye to good flavor. With a little creativity and mindful label-reading, you can easily find foods to replace dairy that are just as creamy, rich, and delicious. Whether it’s almond milk in your morning smoothie, chia pudding for breakfast, or cashew cream on dessert, there are endless healthy dairy alternatives to explore.
One standout? Suja Organic plant-based protein drinks—a clean, convenient, and totally satisfying swap for traditional dairy-based shakes. Unlike many protein drinks made with whey or casein, ours are crafted with 100% dairy-free, organic ingredients and come in crave-worthy flavors like Vanilla Cinnamon and Chocolate. They’re perfect for post-workout recovery, a quick meal replacement, or anytime you want a delicious, nourishing boost. Enjoy!
*Disclaimer: This blog contains promotional content about our products. The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. While the nutritional information and health tips shared here are based on published studies and expert insights, they should not replace advice and treatment from a healthcare professional. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or health objectives.
Endnotes
- Plant-Based Eating Habits & Lifestyles. (2024, November 4). NCSolutions. https://ncsolutions.com/the-goods/plant-based-eating-lifestyles/
- Prophecy Market Insights. (2024). Plant-based Milk Market… https://www.prophecymarketinsights.com/market_insight/plant-based-milk-market-5522
- Zelman, K. (2022, December 21). Health Benefits of Almond Milk. WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-almond-milk
- FSHN20-51/FS413: Plant-Based Milks: Cashew. (n.d.). https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FS413
- Wells, K. (2023, March 31). Is Dairy Healthy or Dangerous? Wellness Mama®. https://wellnessmama.com/health/is-dairy-healthy/
- Low-fat and nonfat ice cream production is heating up the market | Economic Research Service. (2024). https://www.ers.usda.gov/data-products/charts-of-note/chart-detail?chartId=109566
- Dark Chocolate Truffle Ice Cream, 1 each at Whole Foods Market. (2025). https://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/product/jenis-splendid-ice-cream-dark-chocolate-truffle-ice-cream-1-each-b07dk67mpc
