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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.
Table of contents
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 Dairy-free Turmeric Milk
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:
- Add the ground turmeric, cinnamon, black pepper, and fresh ginger in a saucepan. These are your healing base ingredients.
- Pour in the canned coconut milk, then add the raw honey and unrefined coconut oil. Whisk everything together until smooth and well combined.
- 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.
- 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.
Make Your Golden Milk Latte Smooth and Grit-Free
If you’re using fresh ginger or find the texture of ground spices a bit gritty, strain your golden milk through a fine mesh sieve before serving. This ensures a silky-smooth drink without compromising on flavor.
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 Plant-based Teas and 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.
- When I want something warm, cleansing, and invigorating, I reach for my best homemade detox tea. With lemon, fresh ginger, and a touch of cayenne, it’s gently spicy, soothing, and perfect for jumpstarting digestion and giving your body a natural reset.
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.
Golden Milk Recipe
Ingredients
- ½ tsp ground turmeric ground
- ¼ tsp ground cinnamon ground
- ⅛ tsp black pepper, ground ground
- ½ tsp ginger root
- 1 cup coconut milk canned
- 1 tbsp raw honey
- 1 tbsp coconut oil, unrefined
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!
Equipment
Video
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
Common Questions
Golden milk, also known as turmeric milk or haldi doodh, is a warm, comforting drink made by blending turmeric, ginger, and other spices like cinnamon and black pepper with milk (dairy or plant-based). It’s naturally caffeine-free and often sweetened with honey or maple syrup, making it a nourishing alternative to coffee or tea with a beautiful golden glow.
Golden milk is traditionally made by gently heating milk with turmeric and other warming spices like ginger, cinnamon, and a pinch of black pepper (which helps your body absorb curcumin, the active compound in turmeric). It’s typically sweetened with honey or maple syrup and sometimes finished with a splash of vanilla. While classic recipes use dairy milk, plant-based options like coconut, almond, or oat milk work just as well and add their own subtle flavor. Simmer everything together for a few minutes to let the spices infuse, then strain for a silky-smooth, nourishing drink.
One of the benefits of golden milk is that drinking regularly can support your overall wellness thanks to its powerful ingredients. Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. Combined with ginger, black pepper, and healthy fats from milk or coconut oil, golden milk may help with joint health, digestion, immune support, and even relaxation. It’s a simple, delicious way to give your body a daily dose of functional nutrition.
Yes, you can enjoy a turmeric milk daily, and many people do! As long as you’re not consuming excessive amounts of turmeric (especially in supplement form), drinking a cup of golden milk each day is generally considered safe and beneficial for most people. If you have any medical conditions or are taking medications (especially blood thinners), it’s best to check with your healthcare provider first.
Such a warm and inviting recipe, Jen I love the blend of spices and the creamy richness of coconut milk—perfect for cozy evenings. Thanks for sharing the history behind golden milk too; it adds such depth to this comforting drink. Can’t wait to try it and enjoy the anti-inflammatory benefits
Yeah!! So glad you loved this one, and the blog post. The Golden milk is the best!
This is really an awesome mix to have. I prepare it and add my own mixes and well and turns beautiful. Worth the try.
Just wondering why ground turmeric powder instead of fresh grated turmeric root, like the ginger?
Thanks.
Hi Paula! I use ground mostly for the consistency. Great question!
FYI—Your print link doesn’t work.
I’m not vegan, but have major inflammation all the time, so can I use regular 2% milk instead of coconut milk? Will the benefits still be the same? Thank you.
I am anxious to try many of these. I have macular degeneration. Do you have these recipes in a book I could purchase? Thank you,
Jane
So glad you asked, Jane! We have two different books: Simple Green Smoothies (over 100 smoothie recipes!) and Simple Green Meals (meals, smoothies, snacks and desserts in one place). You can find them in our Online Shop. Or you can totally check out Rawk the Year. It’s our membership site that gives you access to all of our recipes in one convenient place!
Do you think you could make this in the almond cow? Would you just reheat the additional each day, or would that not work?
For sure. It’s pretty much got a lil’ a blender in there. I like that idea!
I’m a huge fan of golden milk and this recipe is really good!!
So glad you love it! 🙂
I wasn’t sure about the added pepper – but after reading about how it helps with nutrient absorption, I gave it a try. And I’m so happy I did!
It’s so important and you can barely taste it! 🙂
So glad you include the pepper! So many people have recipes for this type of latte, but don’t include the pepper which really helps your body to be able to use the turmeric. Delicious, warming, healing. Great recipe!
Totally agree, Kat!
Smooth and delish!
It’s such a good drink, isn’t it?
Can someone point me to some reading that will help me stop gasping at the amount of fat in this? I’m probably thinking about this the wrong way—-if this has 79% of hour daily allowance of fat, then…how do I survive the rest of the day on the scant remaining 21%? Somebody help me (or point me)!
I have the same question. I understand that we need healthy fat in our diets, but if you’re using full fat coconut milk as a base why do you need to add coconut oil too? Just curious.
The flavor combination looks amazing! Cant wait to try.
That was def a glitch— it looks like the nutrition side was pulling in a can of full-fat coconut milk (which you can use… yet it’s gonna be super high in fat). If you use refrigerated coconut milk that is watered down and lower in calories and fat… or even choose “light canned coconut milk” it’ll get the fat and calories down a bit as you can see now. Thanks for letting me know!