Coffee creamer

Yes. It adds a creamier texture, and some creamers are sweetened or flavoured, so taste the coffee before adding sugar. Powdered creamer usually needs a good stir to dissolve fully.

Stir it into freshly brewed, hot coffee a little at a time rather than tipping in a large heap. A spoonful of coffee mixed with the powder first makes a smooth paste that is easy to stir back in.

Unopened powdered creamer can usually be kept in a cool, dry cupboard. Liquid creamer may be sold chilled or as a shelf-stable product; refrigerate it after opening and follow the storage directions on its packaging.

Some liquid creamers froth, but results depend on their ingredients and how much fat they contain. Use cold creamer and a clean milk frother; powdered creamer is better dissolved in coffee than frothed on its own.

You can stir it into porridge or use a small amount in a creamy sauce, but sweetened or flavoured creamer may make savoury food taste odd. Add it over low heat and avoid boiling, which can make some creamers separate.

Not necessarily: some creamers contain milk, while others use plant-based ingredients. Even a product described as non-dairy can contain milk-derived caseinate, so check the ingredients if you need to avoid milk.

For a neutral, creamy taste, add milk or a splash of cream. Unsweetened oat or soya drink also works; warm it first if you want to avoid cooling your coffee.