Golden Milk Recipe – Cashew, Almond & Saffron Infused

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Golden Milk Recipe – Cashew, Almond & Saffron Infused

Hello friends! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a warm, comforting drink that’s also good for you. And let me tell you, this Golden Milk – infused with the goodness of cashews, almonds, and a touch of saffron – is exactly that. I first made this during a particularly chilly winter, and it instantly became a family favorite. It’s like a warm hug in a mug!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your average turmeric latte. We’re taking things up a notch with a beautiful blend of roasted nuts and aromatic spices. It’s incredibly soothing, subtly sweet, and packed with flavor. Plus, it’s ready in under 10 minutes – perfect for a cozy night in or a quick wellness boost. Honestly, once you try this, you’ll wonder why you haven’t been making Golden Milk all along!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this golden elixir:

• 2 cups milk (about 475ml)
• 2 tablespoons sugar (approx. 25g)
• 4 peppercorns
• ½ inch cinnamon stick
• 2 small cloves
• 1 cardamom pod
• 6 cashews
• 6 almonds
• 8 pistachios
• A pinch of saffron strands
• ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder (approx. 1g)
• A pinch of grated nutmeg

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few things make this recipe special:

• Saffron: Don’t skip the saffron! It adds a beautiful color and a delicate, floral aroma that’s just divine. A little goes a long way, so a pinch is all you need.
• Nuts: I prefer using cashews and almonds for their creamy texture and subtle sweetness. Pistachios add a lovely color and a bit of crunch. Feel free to experiment with other nuts you enjoy!
• Whole Spices: Using whole spices and roasting them yourself makes a huge difference. It releases their essential oils, resulting in a much more fragrant and flavorful drink. Trust me on this one!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. First, we’re going to dry roast our spices and nuts. In a pan, add the cashews, almonds, pistachios, peppercorns, cinnamon stick, cloves, and cardamom pod. Roast on low heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them!
2. Now, add that precious pinch of saffron strands to the pan, give it a quick mix, and remove from the heat. Let the mixture cool completely.
3. Once cooled, grind the roasted ingredients into a semi-fine powder using a mixer. It doesn’t need to be perfectly smooth – a little texture is nice.
4. In a saucepan, boil the milk until it reaches a rolling boil. Then, reduce the heat and simmer for about a minute.
5. Stir in the sugar and turmeric powder. Simmer for another minute, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
6. Now for the magic! Add the ground nut-spice powder, a few chopped nuts for extra texture, and a pinch of grated nutmeg. Mix thoroughly to avoid any lumps.
7. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is well combined and the milk is beautifully golden.
8. Pour into your favorite serving cups. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped nuts and a few saffron strands for a touch of elegance. Serve hot and enjoy!

Expert Tips

• Don’t over-roast: Burnt spices will make your milk bitter. Keep the heat low and stir frequently.
• Lump-free milk: Adding the spice powder gradually and stirring constantly will prevent lumps. If you do get lumps, a quick whisk will smooth things out.
• Freshly grated nutmeg: Seriously, it makes a difference! The aroma is incredible.

Variations

Want to customize your Golden Milk? Here are a few ideas:

• Vegan Adaptation: Simply substitute the dairy milk with your favorite plant-based milk – almond, oat, or coconut milk all work beautifully.
• Spice Level: If you like a little kick, add a few extra peppercorns. My friend, Priya, loves to add up to 6!
• Festival Adaptations: During Diwali, I sometimes add a tiny bit of rose water for a festive touch. It’s also wonderful during the winter solstice for a warming, comforting drink.
• Nut Allergy Substitution: If you have a nut allergy, you can substitute the nuts with seeds like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. Roast them the same way you would the nuts.

Serving Suggestions

This Golden Milk is wonderful on its own, but it also pairs well with:

• A side of dates or dried figs
• A light biscuit or cookie
• A cozy blanket and a good book!

Storage Instructions

While best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftover Golden Milk in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

• What are the health benefits of this Golden Milk? Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, and the nuts provide healthy fats and protein. It’s a truly nourishing drink!
• Can I make this recipe ahead of time? You can grind the spices and nuts ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. Then, just quickly assemble the milk when you’re ready to enjoy it.
• What type of milk is best for Golden Milk? Full-fat milk creates a richer, creamier texture, but you can use any type of milk you prefer.
• How does saffron contribute to the flavor and color? Saffron adds a subtle floral aroma and a beautiful golden hue to the milk. It’s a luxurious touch!
• Can I use pre-ground spices instead of whole spices? While it’s not ideal, you can use pre-ground spices in a pinch. Just be aware that the flavor won’t be as vibrant.

Enjoy your Golden Milk! I hope it brings you as much comfort and joy as it brings me. Let me know in the comments if you try it and how you customize it to make it your own.