As more people adopt plant-based diets for health, ethical, or environmental reasons, navigating popular fast-food chains can be a challenge. Dunkin', a coffee and doughnut powerhouse, has responded to this shift by expanding its vegan-friendly options, but the menu can still be confusing. By knowing the crucial difference between a 'flavor shot' and a 'flavor swirl,' you can confidently build a delicious, customized vegan drink.
The Golden Rule: Shots are Vegan, Swirls (Mostly) Are Not
The most important distinction to remember at Dunkin' is the difference between flavor shots and flavor swirls.
- Flavor Shots are unsweetened and sugar-free. They are concentrated flavor essences that add a pop of taste without the creamy sweetness. Best of all, all standard flavor shots at Dunkin' are vegan and dairy-free.
- Flavor Swirls are sweet, creamy, and indulgent, similar to a flavored creamer or sauce. This creamy base is almost always dairy-based. While the richness is appealing, most swirls are off-limits for vegans.
All Vegan-Friendly Flavor Shots at Dunkin'
For an unsweetened and dairy-free burst of flavor, you can choose from any of Dunkin's classic flavor shots. These can be added to any hot or iced coffee, cold brew, or even tea.
- Vanilla
- Hazelnut
- Toasted Almond
- Blueberry
- Raspberry
- Coconut
These flavor shots add minimal calories and are a fantastic way to customize your drink while staying true to your vegan diet.
The Mocha Swirl: The Key Vegan Exception
While most flavor swirls contain dairy, there is a very important exception for chocolate lovers. The Mocha Swirl at Dunkin' is vegan-friendly and dairy-free. This makes it possible to enjoy a rich, chocolatey drink without compromising your dietary choices. While seasonal swirls often contain dairy, past examples like Peppermint Mocha and Brown Sugar Cookie have also been reported as dairy-free, so it's always worth checking for limited-time offerings. However, the Mocha Swirl is the reliable, year-round option.
Comparison Table: Shots vs. Swirls
| Feature | Flavor Shots | Flavor Swirls |
|---|---|---|
| Vegan Status | Always Vegan | Almost always contain dairy (Mocha is the main exception) |
| Sweetness | Unsweetened, zero sugar | Rich, sweet, and sugary |
| Consistency | Concentrated, liquid syrup | Creamy and thicker, similar to a sauce |
| Calories (Medium Drink) | 5-10 calories | 150-160 calories |
| Classic Flavors | Vanilla, Hazelnut, Toasted Almond, Blueberry, Raspberry, Coconut | Caramel, French Vanilla, Hazelnut (discontinued as swirl), plus rotating seasonal options |
Building Your Perfect Vegan Drink at Dunkin'
Making a delicious vegan coffee at Dunkin' is simple when you combine your favorite flavor shots or the mocha swirl with the right milk alternative. Dunkin' offers three non-dairy milk options nationwide.
- Choose Your Base: Start with a hot or iced coffee, espresso, cold brew, or even a hot or iced tea. All of these are vegan as is.
- Select Your Milk: Request almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. Since early 2025, Dunkin' has stopped charging extra for these alternatives in the U.S..
- Add Your Flavor: Choose any of the vegan flavor shots (Vanilla, Hazelnut, Toasted Almond, Blueberry, Raspberry, Coconut) or the Mocha Swirl. You can also add simple sugar or liquid sugar for extra sweetness.
For example, you could order an Iced Oat Milk Latte with a Toasted Almond flavor shot, or a Hot Coffee with Coconut Milk and a Mocha Swirl.
What to Avoid on a Vegan Diet at Dunkin'
To ensure your order is entirely plant-based, be mindful of menu items that contain hidden dairy or other animal-derived ingredients.
- Most Flavor Swirls: Avoid popular options like the Caramel and French Vanilla swirls, as they contain dairy.
- Whipped Cream: Any drink that comes with whipped cream should be ordered without it.
- Most Seasonal Swirls: Check the ingredients for any new limited-time swirls, as they often contain dairy.
- Donuts: Unfortunately, Dunkin's doughnuts in the U.S. are not vegan, as they contain eggs and milk.
- Other Dairy-based Items: The cold foam and many other specialty ingredients are not vegan.
Other Vegan-Friendly Options at Dunkin'
Beyond just coffee, Dunkin' offers several other items suitable for a vegan diet.
- Bagels: Plain, everything, cinnamon raisin, and sesame bagels are vegan. Just be sure to order without cream cheese.
- Hash Browns: A reliable and delicious vegan snack.
- Avocado Toast: Sourdough toast with a simple avocado spread is a great vegan food item.
- Dunkin' Refreshers: These fruit-infused iced green tea drinks are vegan by default, such as Strawberry Dragonfruit and Peach Passionfruit.
- Coolattas: The Strawberry and Blue Raspberry Coolattas are non-dairy.
Conclusion
Navigating a vegan diet at Dunkin' is straightforward once you know which options to choose. By sticking to the wide range of unsweetened flavor shots or opting for the indulgent mocha swirl, you can customize your favorite beverages with confidence. Pair these flavors with a non-dairy milk alternative like oat, almond, or coconut, and you're all set to enjoy a delicious, animal-free treat. For a more detailed look at the full menu, check out resources like the Veganuary guide to Dunkin'.
