Cup of Joy: Use Oat Milk in Your Coffee To Boost Happiness, Study Says

Oat milk is more than just a dairy substitute. It also has a satisfying taste and can help you sip away stress. We’ve gathered recipes for some of our favorite creamy, delightful drinks using this dairy-free milk, as well as some fascinating facts about how the beverage can usher in bliss.

Fire up the feel-good vibes.

A cup of oat milk can provide about 50 percent of the recommended daily intake of vitamin B12, which is essential for warding off sadness. In fact, according to a study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders, having adequate levels of the nutrient supports healthy brain function and can reduce your risk of blue moods.

Tame tension.

Kicking back with an oat–spiked drink can help dial down stress. The milk is rich in two powerful compounds (beta-glucans and saponins) that trigger the production of GABA, a neurotransmitter that quiets an overactive brain.

Improve sleep.

Oat milk is brimming with tryptophan, a nutrient that increases melatonin production. Regular whole milk is also high in tryptophan, and a 2020 study says drinking milk can help with sleep. It seems the same may be true with some milk alternatives.

The below recipes are sure to help you relax and get a good night’s sleep, thanks to their delicious and nutritious use of oat milk.

Cinnamon Espresso Sipper

Ingredients (Serves 2):

• 1 cup oat milk
• 2 teaspoons honey
• ⅛ teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ cup chilled espresso

Instructions:

Whisk milk, honey, and cinnamon; pour into 2 ice-filled mugs. Add espresso.

Brown Sugar Black Tea Latte

Ingredients (Serves 2):

• 2 black tea bags
• 1 teaspoon cardamom
• 3 whole cloves
• 2 teaspoon brown sugar
• ½ cup oat milk

Instructions:

Add first 4 ingredients and 2 cups water to a pot; bring to a boil. Remove from heat; steep 10 minutes. Let cool. Strain mixture into 2 ice-filled mugs; top with milk.

Vanilla Matcha Magic

Ingredients (Serves 2):

• 1 tablespoon matcha powder
• ½ cup oat milk
• 1 tablespoon agave syrup
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

Stir together matcha powder and 1 tablespoon hot water. In 2 ice-filled glasses, combine matcha mixture, milk, agave, and vanilla.

A version of this article originally appeared in our print magazine, First for Women.