Spiced Golden Milk Recipe

As I age, I’ve noticed inflammation creeping up in my body more easily, especially when I’m training for my next big running race. To combat this naturally, I turn to my creamy, cozy golden milk recipe. Also known as turmeric milk or haldi doodh, this golden milk latte is an Indian-inspired recipe that’s been used as a natural remedy for centuries. Traditionally made by gently heating milk with turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, and a pinch of black pepper, my version uses coconut milk for a rich, comforting flavor that’s completely plant-based and dairy-free.

Why You’ll Love This Golden Milk Recipe

This golden milk recipe checks all the boxes when it comes to a healthy drink. It’s quick to make, full of nourishing ingredients, and totally dairy-free. Every sip feels like a gentle reset. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your daily routine:

• Ancient remedy, modern reset: Inspired by Ayurvedic tradition, this drink blends turmeric, ginger, and warming spices for a soothing sip that supports your body from the inside out.
• Anti-inflammatory powerhouse: Turmeric’s curcumin delivers science-backed benefits to help reduce inflammation and fight oxidative stress.
• Naturally sweet and satisfying: A drizzle of honey balances the bold spices, making it just sweet enough without overdoing it.
• Caffeine-free calm: There are no jitters, no crash. Just a calming, bedtime-friendly blend that helps you unwind and recharge.

Ingredients You’ll Need

My nourishing golden milk latte feels like a luxurious café drink, but it’s easy to make at home with a few everyday staples and healing spices. It’s rich, warming, and full of flavor you can feel good about. Here’s what you’ll need to make this wellness-boosting drink:

• Ground turmeric: The star ingredient that gives this golden milk recipe its signature hue and anti-inflammatory power. Look for it in the spice aisle, organic options tend to have the boldest color and flavor.
• Ginger root: Fresh ginger adds a spicy, invigorating kick in the drink. Peel and slice or grate for maximum flavor. You can find it in the produce section near the garlic and onions.
• Spices: Ground cinnamon brings cozy, chai-like warmth and a subtle sweetness that perfectly balances turmeric’s earthy bitterness. Black pepper might seem like a small addition, but it plays a powerful role in creating a powerful drink. You can find these in the spice aisle.
• Canned coconut milk: Full-fat canned coconut milk makes the drink extra creamy and satisfying, while also delivering healthy fats to support nutrient absorption. Find it in the international foods or canned goods aisle.
• Raw honey: Adds gentle sweetness and a dose of natural antioxidants. Stir it in after heating to preserve its nutrients. Look for local or raw varieties in the baking or natural foods section. 
• Unrefined coconut oil: This adds richness and helps emulsify the milk for a smooth, frothy finish. Use cold-pressed, unrefined coconut oil for a mild, pleasant flavor. You’ll find it in the oil or baking aisle.

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How to Make This Dairy-Free Golden Milk Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, caffeine-free drink to end your day on a calming note, this turmeric milk is it. Inspired by the traditional Indian drink haldi doodh, this dairy-free version is easy to make at home:

1. Add the ground turmeric, cinnamon, black pepper, and fresh ginger in a saucepan. These are your healing base ingredients.
2. Pour in the canned coconut milk, then add the raw honey and unrefined coconut oil. Whisk everything together until smooth and well combined.
3. Warm the mixture over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Heat until very hot but not boiling, you want it steaming, not bubbling.
4. Pour the hot mixture into a heat-safe blender and blend on low until light and frothy. Once frothy, pour into your favorite mug, sip, and enjoy.

Easy Swaps and Add-Ins

Try these easy variations to tailor this golden milk recipe to your taste or what you have on hand. Whether you’re craving something spicier, creamier, or more naturally sweetened, you can make it your own.

• Milk options: Not a fan of coconut milk? No problem. Swap it out for almond milk, oat milk, or cashew milk. Just be sure to choose something unsweetened so you can control the flavor.
• Sweetener swaps: This recipe calls for raw honey, but you can easily use maple syrup, agave nectar, dates, or stevia. You can go to my blog that covers the best natural sweeteners.
• Spice it your way: Want a bolder flavor? Add a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or a splash of vanilla extract. Craving more heat? A dash of cayenne will do the trick and boost circulation, too.
• Add creaminess: Instead of coconut oil, you can use a small amount of ghee (for non vegetarian versions) or MCT oil for an extra creamy, energizing blend.
• Hot or iced: While golden milk is traditionally enjoyed warm, it’s just as tasty served over ice. Blend everything and chill for a refreshing, summer-ready version.

More Dairy-Free Lattes

Here are a few of my favorite non-dairy drinks that are energizing and perfect for any season, whether you’re craving something warm and spiced or cool and refreshing:

• When I’m in the mood for something bold and spiced, chai tea latte is my go-to. It’s brewed with black tea, warming spices like cardamom and cloves, and finished with frothy oat milk for a rich, comforting cup.
• When I’m looking for something sweet and smooth, my cinnamon dolce latte hits the spot. It blends cinnamon and vanilla with espresso and steamed milk for an amazing drink that tastes like dessert in a cup.
• On warmer days, I reach for my vanilla iced matcha latte. It’s earthy, refreshing, and made with antioxidant-rich matcha powder and creamy milk over ice, perfect for a gentle energy boost without the crash.

If you make this golden milk recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out in the comment box below. Your feedback helps me and all the readers in this community. And if you’re interested in more plant-based recipes (and exclusive content), sign up for my weekly recipe newsletter.

4.91 from 20 votes

Spiced Golden Milk Recipe

Creamy, aromatic, and vibrant, this golden milk recipe is a delicious way to care for your body and calm your mind. It blends the earthy warmth of turmeric with spicy ginger, cozy cinnamon, and just the right touch of sweetness. Made with coconut milk and naturally anti-inflammatory ingredients, it's a soothing, dairy-free golden milk latte that supports digestion, boosts immunity, and brings a sense of grounded comfort with every sip.

Print Pin Rate

Prep: 2 minutes mins

Cook: 3 minutes mins

Total: 5 minutes mins

Serves: 1

Author: Jen Hansard

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Ingredients  

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• ▢ ½ teaspoon turmeric, ground ground
• ▢ ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon ground
• ▢ ⅛ teaspoon black pepper, ground ground
• ▢ ½ teaspoon fresh gingerroot
• ▢ 1 cup coconut milk canned
• ▢ 1 tablespoon raw honey
• ▢ 1 tablespoon coconut oil, unrefined

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Instructions 

• Combine the turmeric, cinnamon, pepper and ginger in a saucepan.
• Whisk in the coconut milk, honey and oil.
• Heat over medium heat for 5 minutes, until very hot but not boiling.
• Pour into a heat-safe blender container and carefully blend on low until frothy. Alternatively, remove saucepan from heat and use an immersion blender to carefully froth.
• Pour it into the glass and it's ready to serve!

Video

Helpful Tools

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Notes

• Milk options: You can use any plant-based milk for this recipe—almond, oat, coconut, or soy all work well. For a creamier texture, choose full-fat coconut milk.
• Sweetener swaps: Maple syrup can be replaced with honey, agave, or a few drops of stevia to suit your taste or dietary needs.
• Fresh vs. ground spices: Ground turmeric is convenient, but fresh turmeric root (grated) offers a bolder, earthier flavor. If using fresh, start with about 1 teaspoon.
• Black pepper boost: Don’t skip the black pepper—it enhances the absorption of curcumin (the active compound in turmeric) for greater health benefits.
• Make-ahead tip: You can mix the dry spices in bulk and store them in an airtight jar for up to a month to make quick non-dairy drinks anytime.

Nutrition

Calories: 353 kcal | Carbohydrates: 25 g | Protein: 0.2 g | Fat: 27 g | Saturated Fat: 25 g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3 g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1 g | Sodium: 168 mg | Potassium: 46 mg | Fiber: 1 g | Sugar: 17 g | Vitamin A: 3 IU | Vitamin C: 0.4 mg | Calcium: 10 mg | Iron: 1 mg

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