Golden Milk (Hot or Iced) Recipe
If you’re craving something warming and nourishing—or maybe cool and refreshing—with a vivid golden hue that instantly lifts your mood, Golden Milk (Hot or Iced) is the answer. Revered for centuries in Ayurvedic tradition, this vibrant beverage combines the earthy spice of turmeric, cozy hints of cinnamon and ginger, a subtle note of vanilla, and a swirl of creamy milk. Whether you’re sipping it hot on a rainy afternoon or pouring it over ice on a sunny day, Golden Milk (Hot or Iced) is the soothing, spiced comfort drink you never knew you needed, and it’s delightfully simple to make right at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Golden Milk (Hot or Iced) lies in its short and flavorful ingredient list. Each component brings a unique note to the blend: creaminess, warmth, a hint of sweetness, or even a pop of golden color. Gather these pantry staples and you’ll quickly see just how easy it is to whip up a drink that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!
- Unsweetened almond milk (2 cups): The creamy base that keeps things dairy-free and lets the spices shine, but feel free to use any milk you adore.
- Honey or maple syrup (1 tablespoon): Just enough natural sweetness to balance the earthy turmeric—taste and adjust as you like.
- Ground turmeric (1 teaspoon): The star of the show, lending that signature golden color and an unmistakable warm flavor.
- Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Adds cozy depth and a touch of gentle spice you’ll smell as soon as you stir it in.
- Ground ginger (1/4 teaspoon): Zesty, slightly spicy, and wonderfully soothing for chilly days or sore throats.
- Pinch of black pepper: Just a pinch helps your body absorb all the goodness from the turmeric—don’t skip it!
- Pure vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Adds sweetness and warmth, rounding out the flavors in each sip.
- Ice cubes (for iced version): Essential for quick cooling and delivering a super refreshing iced golden milk experience.
How to Make Golden Milk (Hot or Iced)
Step 1: Gather and Measure Your Ingredients
Before you start, lay out all your ingredients and measure them. It’s a small step, but having everything ready makes for a smooth, stress-free experience and prevents little surprises mid-recipe. Plus, you get to admire that sunshine-bright turmeric!
Step 2: Combine Spices and Milk
For both versions, you’ll want to generously mix the spices with the milk. Whisk together the almond milk, turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, black pepper, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla in a small saucepan. The delightfully fragrant aroma lets you know something special is brewing.
Step 3: Heat and Infuse the Flavors (Hot Version)
On the stovetop over medium heat, gently warm the mixture. Whisk frequently as you go, making sure everything dissolves beautifully without any stubborn spice lumps. Let it flirt with a simmer for 3 to 5 minutes—enough to infuse the milk but not reach a full boil. When it’s steaming hot and smelling heavenly, take it off the heat.
Step 4: Serve It Up Hot or Cool It Down (Iced Version)
For the hot version, simply pour the golden elixir into your favorite mug and enjoy right away. If your heart is set on Golden Milk (Hot or Iced) being an icy treat, use just 1/2 cup of the almond milk to create a warms-spiced concentrate in your saucepan. Let it cool for a several minutes, then pour over a tall glass of ice and top with the rest of the chilled milk, stirring well for the perfect sip.
Step 5: Make It Extra Special (Optional Tricks)
If you’re after an extra creamy or frothy finish, add a splash of coconut milk or use a handheld frother or blender to whip everything up before serving. Want a little heat? A tiny pinch of cayenne will wake up your tastebuds in the best way.
How to Serve Golden Milk (Hot or Iced)
Garnishes
Take your Golden Milk (Hot or Iced) presentation up a notch with just a few thoughtful garnishes. A sprinkle of ground cinnamon or turmeric, a little dusting of freshly grated nutmeg, or even a cinnamon stick for stirring, all add visual flair and a touch of extra flavor. For something really dreamy, a swirl of frothed milk on top makes every mug or glass a little masterpiece.
Side Dishes
This sunny drink pairs perfectly with light breakfast treats like toasted sourdough, almond biscotti, or a bowl of fresh fruit. If you’re enjoying Golden Milk (Hot or Iced) as an afternoon pick-me-up, try it with a slice of lemon loaf or a buttery scone to make your snack as cozy (or refreshing) as the drink itself.
Creative Ways to Present
Golden Milk (Hot or Iced) isn’t just for mugs! Serve the iced version in tall vintage glasses for a brunch-worthy look, or pour the hot milk into a delicate teacup with a pinch of edible petals for special occasions. If you’re making brunch for a crowd, create a DIY golden milk bar—set out toppings like honey, pistachios, coconut flakes, and let everyone customize their cup.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you make extra Golden Milk (Hot or Iced), you’re in luck: it stores beautifully! Simply pour any leftovers into an airtight glass jar or bottle and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days, ready to be reheated or poured over ice whenever you need a golden moment.
Freezing
Did you know you can freeze Golden Milk (Hot or Iced) for even more convenience? Pour cooled milk into ice cube trays, then use the cubes to chill your next iced golden milk or blend them into smoothies for a creamy, spiced kick. The frozen version keeps for up to a month.
Reheating
To reheat refrigerated Golden Milk (Hot or Iced), gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat. Whisk or stir to recombine any settled spices—no need to bring it to a boil. If you’re in a hurry, a microwave will do the trick; just use short 20-second bursts and give it a good stir. For the iced version, you can enjoy it straight from the fridge or refresh it by pouring over fresh ice.
FAQs
Can I use different types of milk in Golden Milk (Hot or Iced)?
Absolutely! Feel free to use oat milk, soy milk, coconut milk, or traditional dairy milk depending on your dietary preference and the creaminess you’re after. Each type Beverage.
Is Golden Milk (Hot or Iced) suitable for kids?
Yes, it’s generally kid-friendly, though you might want to reduce the ginger or black pepper for extra-sensitive palates. The honey version is best avoided for children under one year old—opt for maple syrup if needed!
Why add black pepper to Golden Milk (Hot or Iced)?
That little pinch of black pepper is crucial, not just for subtle warmth, but because it helps your body absorb the anti-inflammatory benefits of turmeric much more effectively. It doesn’t make the drink spicy, just a touch more complex.
Can I make Golden Milk (Hot or Iced) ahead of time?
Definitely! Make a batch, refrigerate, and enjoy over the next few days. Just shake or stir well before serving, as the spices may settle—a quick froth or blend brings everything back together.
What are some fun mix-ins for Golden Milk (Hot or Iced)?
Spice things up with a little cardamom or a grating of nutmeg, or add a touch of coconut oil for extra richness. For a dessert vibe, a small square of dark chocolate melted into the hot version feels completely decadent!
Final Thoughts
Treat yourself to the cozy ritual of making Golden Milk (Hot or Iced)—once you try it, you’ll want it again and again, whether you’re curling up with a book or cooling off on a summer afternoon. I promise: each glowing sip feels like a little act of self-care. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and enjoy every golden drop!
Print
Golden Milk (Hot or Iced) Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Indulge in the comforting warmth of this Golden Milk, a soothing blend of almond milk, turmeric, and spices. Whether enjoyed hot or iced, this vegan beverage is a perfect way to unwind and relax.
Ingredients
For Hot Golden Milk:
- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of choice)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- Pinch of black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For Iced Golden Milk:
- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- Pinch of black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- For hot golden milk: In a small saucepan, whisk together almond milk, honey, turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, black pepper, and vanilla extract. Simmer for 3-5 minutes, then pour into a mug.
- For iced golden milk: Warm 1/2 cup almond milk with honey, turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, black pepper, and vanilla. Pour over ice, then add the remaining cold almond milk. Stir well and serve.
Notes
- Add a splash of coconut milk for extra creaminess.
- For a frothy hot version, blend briefly in a blender before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
