Raise your hand if you are a coffee addict 
If you’re looking for a way to level up your morning cup of joe, adding a dollop of fluffy, frothed milk is one way to do so!
As the market for plant-based milk grows, it only makes sense that more and more people are opting for milk alternatives to add to their coffee.
But that leaves us with one big question. Does plant-based milk froth like cow’s milk? More specifically, does almond milk froth?
The short answer is yes, you can froth almond milk! The long answer is that frothing almond milk is a different process than frothing traditional dairy milk.
But, with the correct method and proper tools, you can absolutely froth almond milk.
Read on to see six ways to froth almond milk, including step-by-step photos!
Quick Answer
Can you froth almond milk?
Yes, you can froth almond milk using a handheld frother, steam wand, jar, blender, french press, and other methods.
Dairy Milk vs. Almond Milk Frothing
As you might have guessed, not all milk is created equally. Getting a good froth is a combination of a few things:
- Temperature
- Air bubbles
- The fat content of the milk
- The protein content of the milk
In order to froth any milk, you must first introduce air bubbles into it. The higher the fat content of the milk, the easier it will be to froth. Likewise, the higher the protein content, the longer the foam will last.
Cow’s milk is high in both fat and protein, making it the ideal candidate to froth. Almond milk, on the other hand, is significantly lower in fat and protein.
Nonetheless, almond milk is one of the better options compared to other plant-based milks.
The Best Almond Milk for Frothing
Just like not all milk is created equal, not all almond milk is created equal. Selecting a high-quality almond milk is critical for frothing.
Because frothing relies heavily on the amount of fat and protein in the milk, you want to look for almond milk with higher levels of each.
To cut down on costs, many almond milk brands use fewer almonds and more water in their almond milk. This is precisely the almond milk that you want to avoid for frothing.
Several companies make “barista” almond milk that would be the best choice for frothing because it is specially formulated to produce a sturdier microfoam.
Here are some excellent options for barista almond milk:
- Califia Farms Barista Blend Almondmilk
- Elmhurst Milked Almonds Barista Edition
- Pacific Foods Barista Series Almond
- Silk Barista Almond (only available in Canada)
If you prefer to take a stab at frothing regular old almond milk, try these options:
- Elmhurst Almond Milk
- Almond Breeze Extra Creamy Almondmilk
- Silk Extra Creamy Almondmilk
- Simple Truth Almond Milk
How to Froth Almond Milk
There are several ways to froth almond milk.
Depending on what tools you have on hand, some methods might be easier than others.
Lucky for you, we’re going over them all, so you are sure to find a method that works for you!
How to Steam Almond Milk
Depending on what you are drinking, you can use either hot or cold almond milk for frothing.
If you choose to steam your almond milk, you can warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop.
The ideal temperature for frothing hot almond milk is 140°F (60°C) to 150°F (65°C).
This is slightly higher than cow’s milk, which is typically heated to about 140°F (60°C) for frothing.
Because you are looking for a particular temperature, it’s crucial to have a thermometer to check the temperature of your almond milk as you’re heating it.
To heat almond milk in the microwave, pour it into a microwave-safe glass and warm it up in 20-second intervals until it reaches about 150°F (65°C).
To heat almond milk on the stovetop, pour it into a pot and warm it over medium-low heat. Bubbles should start forming around the edges when it reaches 150°F (65°C).
Now that you have your steamed almond milk let the frothing begin!
Related: Why Does Almond Milk Curdle?
How to Froth Almond Milk with a Steam Wand
Traditionally, a steam wand is used in most coffee shops to froth milk. It is essentially the same process as steaming cow's milk if you have an espresso machine at home with a steam wand.
Pour almond milk into a pitcher, jar, or mug, and hold the pitcher at an angle under the steaming wand.
Insert the steaming wand just below the surface of the almond milk, not all the way to the bottom of the pitcher. You want to introduce as much air as possible at the start of the frothing process.
Move the pitcher slowly around, then up and down to circulate the air bubbles throughout the milk and keep it moving.
Use a thermometer to check when your almond milk reaches 150°F (65°C), and this is when you should turn off the steamer. The milk should about double in size during this process.
How to Froth Almond Milk Using a Handheld Frother
A handheld frother is a quick and inexpensive way to easily froth milk at home if you don’t have an espresso machine with a steam wand.
Pour almond milk into a pitcher, jar, or mug.
Insert the frother just below the surface of the almond milk. Turn it on and froth for about 30 seconds.
Then, move the frother in circular motions on the surface of the milk and up and down until the milk increases in volume significantly.
How to Froth Almond Milk in a Jar
Frothing almond milk in a jar can be done if you’re really craving some frothed milk in your coffee with no tools or gadgets required. This is by far the easiest method.
Pour almond milk into a jar with a lid. Leave about half of the jar empty so there is room for the milk to froth.
Screw the lid on tightly and shake vigorously until you get your desired amount of foam. This process might take 5-8 minutes, and you can check off your arm workout for the day too!
How to Froth Almond Milk in a French Press
Did you know that your French press can come in handy if you want to froth almond milk? It might not result in as smooth of a texture compared to other methods, but it definitely does the trick!
Pour almond milk into the bottom of your French press.
Place the French press on a hard, flat surface, and ensure the pour spout is closed.
Move the plunger up and down rapidly until the milk has increased in volume and you have the desired amount of foam.
How to Froth Almond Milk in a Blender
The blender method can work in a pinch but isn’t the most ideal since blenders make pretty tiny bubbles compared to the other methods. However, most people have a blender in their kitchen, so it is convenient!
Pour warmed almond milk into your blender.
Blend on medium speed for 1-2 minutes until frothy.
How to Froth Almond Milk with a Whisk, Hand Mixer, or Stand Mixer
If you want to put a little elbow grease into your latte, you can also use a whisk! Alternatively, to make it easier on yourself a hand mixer or stand mixer works too.
Pour warmed almond milk into a mixing bowl, leaving enough room for the milk to expand.
Whisk on the highest setting (or as vigorously as possible if using a whisk) to get as many bubbles in the milk as possible.
Stop whisking when you have your desired amount of foam.
Tips for Frothing Almond Milk
Use the freshest and highest quality almond milk you can get your hands on! Barista almond milk lines are your best bet for foolproof almond milk frothing.
If you’re warming your almond milk, its temperature is the most crucial aspect of whether it will froth or not. As mentioned, 150°F (65°C) is that sweet spot for frothing almond milk. If the almond milk is too hot, it will break down and the texture will be completely off. On the other hand, if the almond milk is too cold there won’t be much to work with and froth.
Having a thermometer is also key in ensuring that your almond milk will froth. This is because you are looking for a very specific temperature in order to get your almond milk to froth. Almond milk is kind of like Goldilocks in this sense, it can’t be too hot or too cold. It has to be just right.
Enjoy Your Frothy Almond Milk!
While the method is slightly different from regular milk, you can froth almond milk. Whether you have a handheld frother, a blender, or even a jar, you can achieve the perfect foamy froth to add to your morning coffee!
Frothing Almond Milk FAQs
Does Almond Milk Froth Well?
Plain almond milk is considerably more difficult to froth than dairy milk because it contains very little fat and protein.
The foam doesn’t usually last as long if you can get it to foam at all (unless you use a barista style almond milk).
However, there are a few techniques that you can use for excellent, frothy almond milk!
Why Isn't My Almond Milk Frothy?
There could be a few reasons that your almond milk isn’t frothing.
The most common reason your almond isn’t frothing is because you’re using the wrong type of almond milk.
Plain almond milk can be too watery to froth, and water does not form foam. That’s why we suggest using a barista style almond milk instead.
Next, consider how long you’ve had the milk. Old almond milk loses quality and its ability to froth after a while.
Also, keep in mind that almond milk burns more easily than dairy milk.
It’s possible that you overheated or over-steamed the almond milk, and now it won’t froth.
Start again using cold milk, and be careful not to let it get hotter than 135 degrees Fahrenheit.
Can You Froth Cold Almond Milk?
It is best to froth cold almond milk that has been refrigerated. Almond milk should be frothed in a cold state and microwaved after the fact.
Can You Foam Almond Milk?
Yes, you can foam almond milk for use in cappuccinos!
Using a hand frother, electric mixer, blender, or milk steamer, you can foam almond milk.
The almond milk you choose should have a higher fat and protein content for the best results. Try using an almond milk creamer rather than plain almond milk.
Does Almond Milk Froth in a Frother?
You can froth almond milk in an electric milk frother.
Many electric frothers today have temperature control settings so that you can prevent your almond milk from getting overcooked.
If using one of these frothers, do not exceed 135 degrees Fahrenheit for almond milk.
Some frothers also have cold settings, where no heat is used.
Can You Froth Almond Milk in A Blender?
Yes, you can froth almond milk in a blender. The process is very simple. Here’s how to do it:
- Pour almond milk into a blender and put it in the lid.
- Blend the milk on medium speed and blend until the milk is frothy.
- Pour the foam on your drink, spooning out the foam first.
Can You Froth Almond Milk in a NutriBullet?
Yes, almond milk can be frothed in a NutriBullet.
Simply put some almond milk in the blender cup and leave room for the foam to grow.
Keep blending until you see foam form. It is not recommended to put warm or hot milk in a NutriBullet.
Can You Froth Almond Milk Creamer?
Almond milk creamers typically have a higher fat and protein content than almond milk itself and thus are easier to froth.
Though it won’t froth as easily as dairy milk, it can still form a nice foamy layer.
As always, you want to pick a creamer with high fat and protein content – low-quality creamers are mainly composed of water and will resist foaming.
Can You Froth Almond Milk With an Espresso Machine?
Yes, frothing almond milk with the steaming wand of an espresso machine is the best way to get a thick layer of foam for your coffee.
Froth it the same way you would regular milk, however, be sure not to surpass 135 degrees Fahrenheit.
Can You Froth Almond Milk in Aeroccino?
Yes! The Aeroccino can froth both hot and cold milk.
Since almond milk burns more easily than dairy milk, you may want to froth it on a cold setting.
To change the Aeroccino to the cold setting, hold down the center button for 5 seconds.
The ring will turn blue, which means you’re ready to start a cold froth.
Can You Froth Almond Milk Without a Whisk?
Yes, you can froth almond milk without a whisk.
Alternative frothing techniques include hand-frothers, steaming wands, electric mixers, blenders, and even just shaking it in a jar.
Can You Froth Unsweetened Almond Milk?
You can froth unsweetened almond milk the same way you would froth sweetened almond milk.
The most popular ways to froth almond milk are with a hand frother or steamer.
For the best results, use a barista style almond milk.
Can You Froth Homemade Almond Milk?
Homemade almond milk is just as frothable as its store-bought counterparts.
For better foam, add some lecithin powder to your milk. This will help create more bubbles and a thicker foam layer.
