When I first became a vegan there were certain things that concerned me about making the change more than other. One was surely how I was ever going to get enough protein in my diet, especially if I didn't like the taste or consistency of "fake meat" products. Another was what I would put in my coffee. I have at least one cup of coffee, decaf or regular, every day. I think it's less about the caffeine and more about the ritual. Even in the summer I just need a hot steaming mug or to-go cup, be it from my Keurig, Starbucks, Dunkin Donuts or somewhere else. At Starbucks they make it easy for vegans as they always have soy milk on hand, but soy intake is something I like to monitor as I hear conflicting reports on how much is too much.
The dairy alternatives I have come to love and rely on most at home are SO Delicious brand almond milk (which come in original or vanilla) and SO Delicious coconut milk (which also comes in chocolate.) Unlike soy milk, they don't break down in your coffee and they offer a silky, subtle flavor that really enhances, and not overwhelms, the coffee. My mother-in-law loves to use creamers in her coffee (a bit too rich for my taste) so I bought her their creamers in regular, hazelnut and french vanilla. If you want a fuller, bolder cup of coffee, there are really really good.
When it comes to frozen treats, I used to live on frozen yogurt, so while I don't have a super big sweet tooth, I do like to have something every now and then. SO Delicious offers coconut milk frozen dessert pints and novelties like their coconut almond and mocha almond fudge Minis on a stick. I never used to love vanilla, but my new favorite late night indulgence is a little of the vanilla coconut milk ice cream topped with non-pareils and a drizzle of organic agave nectar. I let it melt just a little before I dig in...it is heavenly!
SO Delicious is available at specialty markets and some regular supermarkets as well so be sure to keep an eye out and then stock up your fridge! If you have kids at home, they also offer 8 pack 6. oz servings of the coconut, perfect for school lunches or picnics!