Badam Milk (Saffron Almond Milk): Recipe, Benefits & Is It Good for You?

Badam milk is a warm Indian drink of milk blended with almonds, saffron, and cardamom. Is it good for you? The almonds add plant protein, vitamin E, and healthy fats, while the milk brings protein and calcium, so a cup is more filling than most drinks, at roughly 220 calories as written below. It is caffeine free and traditionally sipped warm in the evening. Saffron and green cardamom give it its color and aroma.

Badam milk nutrition (per cup, as written)

• Calories: about 220
• Protein: about 9 g
• Fat: about 11 g (mostly from almonds)
• Carbohydrates: about 20 g
• Caffeine: 0 mg

Almonds contribute vitamin E and healthy fats; the sugar you add is the main variable. Use less sweetener, or unsweetened plant milk, for a lighter cup.

Badam milk recipe

Makes 2 cups. Ready in about 20 minutes plus soaking.

Ingredients

• 15 almonds, soaked in warm water for 20 minutes and peeled
• 2 cups milk (dairy, or almond milk for a fully plant version)
• 1 pinch saffron threads
• 3 green cardamom pods, seeds ground
• 2 teaspoons sugar or honey, to taste
• 1 pinch grated nutmeg (optional)

Steps

1. Blend the peeled almonds with a splash of the milk into a smooth paste.
2. Warm the rest of the milk in a saucepan and stir in the saffron; let it steep 2 minutes so the color releases.
3. Whisk in the almond paste and ground cardamom, and simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring so it does not catch.
4. Sweeten to taste, add nutmeg if using, and serve warm.

Is badam milk good for you?

Badam milk is a genuinely nourishing drink: the almonds add plant protein, vitamin E, and healthy fats, and the milk adds protein and calcium. That also makes it more of a light snack than a plain beverage, so a cup is satisfying on its own. Saffron and cardamom are used in small, aromatic amounts, mainly for color and fragrance. As with any sweetened drink, the sugar you stir in is the part worth keeping an eye on.

It is the cardamom you remember. Green cardamom is the aromatic heart of badam milk. If you love that note, our Cardamom Green Tea Elixir carries the same bright green-cardamom aroma in a lighter, everyday cup.

Frequently asked questions

Is badam milk good for you?

It is a nourishing drink. Almonds add plant protein, vitamin E, and healthy fats, and the milk adds protein and calcium, so a cup is filling. The main thing to watch is added sugar.

Does badam milk have caffeine?

No. Badam milk is made from milk, almonds, saffron, and cardamom, so it is caffeine free and often enjoyed in the evening.

Can you make badam milk vegan?

Yes. Use almond milk or another plant milk in place of dairy. Blending in a few soaked almonds keeps the body and richness.

When is badam milk traditionally served?

It is often served warm in the evening, and it appears at festivals and celebrations across India.

This article shares general information and published research, not medical or dietary advice. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.