Authentic Almond Milk Recipe – Cardamom & Saffron Infused

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Authentic Almond Milk Recipe – Cardamom & Saffron Infused

Hey everyone! Today, I’m sharing a recipe that’s incredibly close to my heart – a warm, comforting glass of almond milk infused with the delicate flavors of cardamom and saffron. It’s a taste of home, a little bit of luxury, and surprisingly easy to make. I first made this for my grandmother when she wasn’t feeling well, and the warmth and aroma instantly lifted her spirits. It’s been a family favorite ever since!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your average store-bought almond milk. This recipe delivers a richness and depth of flavor you just can’t find anywhere else. It’s subtly sweet, wonderfully aromatic, and perfect for a cozy night in. Plus, knowing exactly what goes into your drink is always a good thing, right? It takes just 15 minutes to make, and the result is pure bliss.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this magic:

• 2 cups dairy milk (about 475ml)
• 0.25 cup whole almonds (about 30g)
• 0.25 teaspoon cardamom powder (about 1g)
• Tiny pinch of saffron (a few strands)
• 2 tablespoons sugar (about 20g)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little things can make a big difference.

Dairy Milk – Full Fat vs. Low Fat Options

I prefer using full-fat milk for a richer, creamier texture. However, you can absolutely use low-fat or skim milk if you prefer. Just know that the final result will be a little lighter.

Almonds – Choosing the Best Quality

Using good quality almonds is key. Look for almonds that are plump and have a natural color. I usually buy mine in bulk to keep them fresh.

Cardamom – Freshly Ground vs. Store-Bought

Freshly ground cardamom has the most vibrant flavor! If you have whole cardamom pods, lightly toast them in a dry pan and then grind them yourself. Store-bought cardamom powder works perfectly fine too, though.

Saffron – Identifying Authentic Saffron & Its Benefits

Saffron is a bit of a splurge, but it adds such a beautiful color and unique flavor. Make sure you’re buying authentic saffron – it should be a deep reddish-orange color and have a slightly sweet aroma. A little goes a long way! It’s also packed with antioxidants, which is a bonus.

Sugar – Alternative Sweetener Options

I like using regular granulated sugar, but feel free to experiment with other sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or even a sugar substitute. Adjust the amount to your liking.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! It’s easier than you think.

First, let’s soak the almonds. Place them in a bowl with warm water for about 10 minutes. This helps soften them for blending.

Next, peel the skins off the almonds. It’s a little tedious, but worth it! The skins can make the milk slightly bitter.

Now, blend the peeled almonds with about 1 tablespoon of water to create a smooth paste. Set this aside.

In a heavy-bottomed pan, simmer the milk over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps to concentrate the flavor.

Add the almond paste, cardamom powder, sugar, and saffron to the simmering milk. Stir well to combine.

Continue to simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring constantly, until everything is well blended and the milk is fragrant.

Finally, taste and adjust the sweetness if needed. Serve warm, garnished with a few slivered almonds, or chill in the fridge for a refreshing treat.

Expert Tips

A few little secrets to make this recipe even better:

• Don’t skip the simmering step! It really brings out the flavors.
• Stir frequently to prevent the milk from scorching.
• If you want a smoother texture, strain the milk through a fine-mesh sieve before serving.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

Vegan Almond Milk Adaptation (Using Plant-Based Milk)

My friend, Priya, is vegan, and she loves making this with almond milk instead of dairy milk! It’s equally delicious. You can also use oat milk or soy milk.

Spice Level – Adjusting Cardamom Intensity

If you’re a cardamom lover like me, feel free to add a little more! Start with ¼ teaspoon and adjust to your taste.

Sweetness Level – Controlling Sugar Content

I like my almond milk subtly sweet, but you can easily adjust the amount of sugar to your preference.

Festival Adaptations – Serving During Special Occasions

During Diwali, my family loves to serve this with a sprinkle of chopped pistachios and a tiny bit of rose water for an extra festive touch.

Serving Suggestions

This almond milk is wonderful on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with:

• A side of warm, spiced cookies
• A comforting bowl of porridge
• As a soothing bedtime drink

Storage Instructions

Leftover almond milk can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It may separate slightly, so just give it a good stir before serving.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

Can I use pre-made almond paste?

Yes, absolutely! If you’re short on time, using pre-made almond paste is a great shortcut. Just adjust the amount to your liking.

What if I don’t have saffron? Can I omit it?

You can definitely omit the saffron if you don’t have it. The almond milk will still be delicious, but it won’t have the same beautiful color or unique flavor.

How can I make this almond milk colder?

Simply chill it in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. You can also add a few ice cubes, but that will dilute the flavor slightly.

Can this almond milk be used for baking?

While it’s delicious to drink, this almond milk isn’t ideal for baking due to its thicker consistency. It’s best enjoyed as a beverage.

What is the best way to store leftover almond milk?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Can I use different types of nuts alongside almonds?

Definitely! Cashews or pistachios would be lovely additions. Just adjust the soaking time accordingly.

Enjoy this little piece of comfort! I hope you love it as much as my family does. Let me know in the comments how it turns out for you. Happy cooking!