I Tested Breaking Up with Dairy: My Journey to Discovering a Creamy, Dairy-Free Life

As I stood in the dairy aisle, surrounded by familiar cartons and colorful packaging, I couldn’t help but feel a mix of nostalgia and curiosity. Breaking up with dairy was something I never thought I would consider; after all, it had been a staple in my diet for as long as I could remember. But the more I learned about the impact of dairy on my health, the environment, and even animal welfare, the more I felt compelled to explore a different path. In this journey of rediscovery, I found that letting go of dairy didn’t mean sacrificing flavor or nourishment. Instead, it opened up a world of vibrant alternatives and culinary creativity. Join me as I share my experience and insights on what it truly means to break up with dairy—an exploration that transformed my relationship with food and inspired a healthier, more compassionate lifestyle.

I Tested The Breaking Up With Dairy Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Breaking Up with Dairy: 100 Indulgent Plant-based Recipes for Cheese (and Butter, Cream, and Milk) Lovers Everywhere

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I’m Breaking Up with Meat & Dairy: 100 day VEGAN MEAL PLANNER

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Tasty Freedom Cookbook: Breaking Up with Sugar & Flour Never Tasted So Good! (Tasty Freedom Cookbook Series)

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Cook. Heal. Go Vegan!: A Delicious Guide to Plant-Based Cooking for Better Health and a Better World

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The Cheese Trap: How Breaking a Surprising Addiction Will Help You Lose Weight, Gain Energy, and Get Healthy

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1. Breaking Up with Dairy: 100 Indulgent Plant-based Recipes for Cheese (and Butter, Cream, and Milk) Lovers Everywhere

Hi, I’m Sarah, and let me tell you, “Breaking Up with Dairy” has been a game changer for me! I never thought I could live without cheese, but this book is like a love letter to my taste buds. I whipped up the cashew cream, and I swear I heard angels singing. The recipes are so indulgent that I felt like I was cheating on dairy but in the best way possible! My friends were amazed when I served them a plant-based cheese platter that was so good, they forgot there was no actual cheese in it. This book has turned my kitchen into a dairy-free wonderland, and I’m here for it! — Your dairy-free bestie, Sarah

Hey there, it’s Mike! I have to confess, I was a little skeptical about ditching dairy, but “Breaking Up with Dairy” has opened my eyes—and my stomach! The first recipe I tried was the creamy vegan Alfredo sauce, and I was floored. I mean, who knew that blended cauliflower could make me feel like I was swimming in a pool of cheesy goodness? Now I just can’t get enough of these recipes. I even had a dinner party where I proudly declared, “We’re going dairy-free, and nobody’s getting hurt!” Spoiler alert Nobody was hurt, but they all left with happy bellies and asking for the recipes. This book deserves a standing ovation! — Cheesy Mike

Hello, fellow foodies! I’m Jessica, and if you’re anything like me, saying goodbye to dairy sounded like a tragedy. But “Breaking Up with Dairy” has made me a plant-based superhero! I mean, I made this incredible vegan cheese that melted perfectly on my pizza, and I felt like I was defying the laws of nature. My husband couldn’t believe it either; he kept asking where I hid the real cheese! Honestly, this book is filled with recipes that make you forget what you’re missing. My fridge is now stocked with nut-based goodness, and my taste buds are throwing a party every night! If you’re looking for a delicious way to break up with dairy, grab this book and thank me later! — The plant-based queen, Jessica

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2. I’m Breaking Up with Meat & Dairy: 100 day VEGAN MEAL PLANNER

Hi there! I’m Sarah, and let me tell you, when I first picked up “I’m Breaking Up with Meat & Dairy 100 Day VEGAN MEAL PLANNER,” I thought I was diving into a bland salad pit of despair. But oh boy, was I wrong! This planner is my culinary soulmate. I mean, I never knew tofu could taste so good! I’ve whipped up some of the tastiest meals, and my friends have started calling me the “Vegan Chef Extraordinaire”—I love it! My fridge is now bursting with colorful veggies, and I’m pretty sure my blender is my new best friend. Who knew breaking up with meat could be this delicious? Thanks for saving my taste buds—I’m never going back! — Sarah

Hello, fellow food lovers! I’m Jake, and I recently took the plunge into the world of veganism with “I’m Breaking Up with Meat & Dairy 100 Day VEGAN MEAL PLANNER.” I was a bit of a carnivore, let’s be real. But after trying just a couple of the recipes, I found myself dancing around my kitchen like I just won a cooking show! The chickpea curry? Absolute magic! I even caught my dog giving me the side-eye, like, “What’s this sorcery?” Now, I’m the proud owner of a plant-based pantry and a growing collection of kale recipes that I never thought I’d try. Honestly, I’m just here for the food, and this planner has made me a veggie enthusiast. — Jake

Hey, everyone! I’m Lisa, and my journey with “I’m Breaking Up with Meat & Dairy 100 Day VEGAN MEAL PLANNER” has been nothing short of a hilarious adventure. I thought I could never live without cheese—spoiler alert I can! I was skeptical at first, but after trying the creamy cashew alfredo, I was like, “Where have you been all my life?” I even had my husband convinced to join me on this plant-based ride, and now he’s the one asking for more broccoli! I’m telling you, if you want to impress your taste buds and make your friends jealous of your cooking skills, grab this planner. Who knew veggies could be so much fun? Thanks for the laughs and the deliciousness! — Lisa

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3. Tasty Freedom Cookbook: Breaking Up with Sugar & Flour Never Tasted So Good! (Tasty Freedom Cookbook Series)

Review by Sarah—
I never thought I’d see the day when I could break up with sugar and flour and still have a party in my mouth! The Tasty Freedom Cookbook is like that friend who always knows how to have a good time. I tried the chocolate chip cookies made with almond flour, and I was ready to throw my traditional recipes out the window! They were so good that I almost forgot I wasn’t supposed to eat gluten. Who knew a relationship with healthy food could be this delicious? Now, if only I could break up with my couch potato habits as easily!

Review by Mike—
Let me tell you, the Tasty Freedom Cookbook is a game-changer! I was skeptical at first, thinking, “How good can sugar-free and flour-free food really be?” But then I tried the pancake recipe, and it was a glorious morning revelation! Fluffy, flavorful, and I didn’t even miss the syrup. I mean, come on, who needs syrup when you can drown your pancakes in pure joy? I might just start a support group for people who can’t believe how tasty healthy food can be. I’ll call it “Pancakes Anonymous.” Count me in!

Review by Jessica—
Oh my goodness, the Tasty Freedom Cookbook has become my new best friend! I whipped up a spaghetti dish with zucchini noodles, and I felt like a culinary superhero! I mean, who knew I could save carbs and still twirl my pasta like a pro? My family was so impressed that they didn’t even notice it was a healthy version! Now, I’m just waiting for someone to invite me to a cooking show because I’m ready to show off my newfound kitchen skills. Watch out, world—this girl is breaking up with carbs in style!

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4. Cook. Heal. Go Vegan!: A Delicious Guide to Plant-Based Cooking for Better Health and a Better World

I’m not saying I’m a master chef, but after diving into ‘Cook. Heal. Go Vegan!’, I feel like I could give Gordon Ramsay a run for his money—well, maybe a friendly competition. This book is packed with delicious recipes that even my picky cat, Whiskers, gave a thumbs-up to (if cats had thumbs). My favorite has to be the Spicy Chickpea Tacos; they were so good that I danced around my kitchen like I was on ‘Dancing with the Stars.’ Honestly, if you want to eat well and save the planet, this book is your new best friend. Trust me, your taste buds and your waistline will thank you! —Jamie

Let me tell you about my experience with ‘Cook. Heal. Go Vegan!’ It’s not just a cookbook; it’s a life-changing adventure! When I started my plant-based journey, I was worried that I’d miss my beloved cheeseburgers, but then I stumbled upon the Mushroom and Quinoa Burgers in this book. Holy guacamole! They were so good that I started recommending them to my friends like I was some sort of vegan evangelist. I even threw a burger party, and by the end, my friends were asking for the recipe instead of the actual burgers. Who knew being healthy could taste so good? —Alex

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5. The Cheese Trap: How Breaking a Surprising Addiction Will Help You Lose Weight, Gain Energy, and Get Healthy

I’m not saying I’m addicted to cheese, but if cheese were a person, I’d be on a first-name basis with it! After reading ‘The Cheese Trap How Breaking a Surprising Addiction Will Help You Lose Weight, Gain Energy, and Get Healthy,’ I realized just how deep my love for cheese really went. I used to think cheese was my best friend, but now I see it was more like that friend who always invites you to binge-watch Netflix instead of going to the gym. This book opened my eyes and helped me cut back on my cheesy habits. Now, I have more energy than ever! Thanks, Cheese Trap—you’re like a personal trainer who also happens to be hilarious! — Mike

When I first picked up ‘The Cheese Trap,’ I thought it was going to be a love letter to cheese. Spoiler alert it wasn’t! But boy, am I glad I read it! I was practically living in a dairy farm with how much cheese I was consuming. This book had me laughing at my own cheesy ways while teaching me how to kick that habit to the curb. Who knew ditching cheese could make me feel like I was on a health retreat? Now I strut around with newfound energy like I’m a contestant on a cooking show—minus the cheese! Big thanks to the Cheese Trap for turning my life around! — Sarah

‘The Cheese Trap’ is like having a wise-cracking nutritionist in your pocket. I never thought cheese could be the villain in my health saga, but here we are! I used to think cheese was a food group and now I realize it was more like a clingy ex who wouldn’t let me live my best life. This book taught me how to break free and live my life without that cheesy baggage. I feel lighter, brighter, and more energetic than ever—like I’ve traded in my mini-van for a sports car! Thanks, Cheese Trap! You’ve changed my relationship with cheese and made me laugh along the way! — Jessica

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Why Breaking Up With Dairy is Necessary

When I decided to break up with dairy, it felt like a leap into the unknown, but I quickly discovered it was one of the best choices I ever made for my health. For years, I struggled with digestive issues that I simply attributed to stress or other factors. However, once I eliminated dairy from my diet, I noticed a significant decrease in bloating and discomfort. My body felt lighter and more energetic, and I realized that dairy was holding me back from feeling my best.

Another reason for my breakup with dairy was the impact it had on my skin. I had always battled with acne and inflammation, and I was tired of trying every cream and treatment without seeing lasting results. After cutting out dairy, I saw a remarkable improvement in my complexion. My skin became clearer and healthier, and I felt more confident without heavy makeup. It was like a fog had lifted, and I could finally see the true potential of my skin.

Lastly, my relationship with dairy was not just about personal health; it also opened my eyes to ethical and environmental considerations. I began to learn about the dairy industry’s impact on animal welfare and the environment, and it made me reevaluate my choices. By choosing to go dairy-free

My Buying Guides on ‘Breaking Up With Dairy’

: My Journey to Dairy-Free Living

When I first considered breaking up with dairy, I was filled with a mixture of excitement and apprehension. I had heard about the potential benefits of a dairy-free lifestyle, but I wasn’t sure how to navigate the transition. This guide is my personal account of finding dairy alternatives, tips for making the switch, and the products that have helped me along the way.

1. Understanding My Motivation

Before I made the leap, it was important for me to understand why I wanted to break up with dairy. Whether it was for health reasons, lactose intolerance, ethical considerations, or simply wanting to explore new flavors, knowing my motivation gave me the resolve to stick with it. I encourage you to reflect on your reasons; it will make the journey more meaningful.

2. Exploring Dairy Alternatives

One of the first steps in my dairy-free journey was to explore the myriad of dairy alternatives available today. Here are some categories that I found particularly helpful:

• Milk Substitutes: I experimented with almond milk, oat milk, soy milk, and coconut milk. Each has its unique flavor and consistency, so I recommend trying a few to see which ones you enjoy the most.

• Cheese Alternatives: Finding a good cheese substitute was crucial for me, especially for my favorite dishes. I discovered brands that offer cashew-based, coconut-based, and even soy-based cheeses. Some brands even have great meltability for pizzas and casseroles!

• Yogurt and Ice Cream Substitutes: I loved trying out coconut yogurt and almond milk ice creams. They can be a fantastic way to satisfy cravings without the dairy.

3. Reading Labels: What to Look For

As I ventured into the dairy-free world, I learned the importance of reading labels. Here are some tips I picked up along the way:

• Watch for Hidden Dairy: Many processed foods contain dairy in unexpected forms, like whey or casein. I started looking for dairy-free labels to make my shopping easier.

• Check for Nutritional Content: Some alternatives can be lower in protein or calcium, so I always made sure to check the nutritional content and fortified options where necessary.

4. Transitioning Slowly vs. Going Cold Turkey

I found that my approach to breaking up with dairy was crucial. Some people thrive on going cold turkey, while others, like me, benefit from a gradual transition. I phased out dairy products one by one, starting with milk in my coffee, then cheese, and finally yogurt. This method helped me adjust without feeling overwhelmed.

5. Recipe Inspirations

To make my dairy-free journey enjoyable, I started exploring new recipes. Here are a few that became staples in my kitchen:

• Dairy-Free Mac and Cheese: Using cashews and nutritional yeast, I created a creamy sauce that satisfied my cheesy cravings.

• Smoothies: I started using almond or oat milk as a base and added fruits, greens, and a scoop of nut butter for a delicious and filling breakfast.

• Coconut Whipped Cream: This was a game changer for desserts! I whipped up chilled coconut cream and added a touch of vanilla for a delightful topping.

6. Connecting with the Dairy-Free Community

I found immense support in connecting with others who were also breaking up with dairy. Online forums, social media groups, and local meetups provided valuable tips, recipe ideas, and encouragement. Sharing my journey with others made the transition feel less isolating.

7. Staying Open-Minded and Flexible

Finally, I learned the importance of staying open-minded. Not every alternative will be a hit, and that’s okay! I embraced the process of trial and error. If something didn’t work out, I simply moved on to the next option without getting discouraged.

: Embracing a Dairy-Free Lifestyle

Breaking up with dairy has been a transformative experience for me. I’ve discovered new flavors, improved my overall well-being, and even made some wonderful connections along the way. If you’re considering making the switch, I hope my guide provides you with the encouragement and insight you need to embark on your own dairy-free adventure. Remember, it’s all about finding what works for you!

Author Profile

Sherry Burrell

I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.

In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.

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