Dunkin' Adds Oatmilk and Removes Extra Charge
In a significant move that thrilled plant-based drinkers and the lactose intolerant, Dunkin' began offering oatmilk nationwide in August 2020. Following consumer feedback and a broader industry shift, the company announced in February 2025 that it would eliminate the extra charge for plant-based milks, effective March 5, 2025. This decision aligns Dunkin' with other major U.S. coffee chains and makes customizing beverages with oatmilk more accessible and affordable.
What Kind of Oatmilk Does Dunkin' Use?
Dunkin' has a partnership with Planet Oat, a popular brand known for its creamy texture and lightly sweet taste. Planet Oat's Extra Creamy variety is reportedly used in stores, giving Dunkin's drinks a rich mouthfeel that rivals traditional dairy. This specific brand is gluten-free, though customers with severe allergies should still be mindful of potential cross-contamination, as all Dunkin' drinks are prepared in the same area.
How to Order Your Favorite Drinks with Oatmilk
Almost every coffee or espresso-based drink at Dunkin' can be customized with oatmilk. When ordering, simply specify "oatmilk" as your desired milk substitute. Because the extra charge has been removed, this customization no longer affects the base price of your drink.
Best Drinks to Customize with Oatmilk:
- Lattes: A classic choice, the oatmilk latte is a fan-favorite, available both hot and iced.
- Iced Coffee: Add a smooth, rich flavor to a standard iced coffee for a delicious dairy-free alternative.
- Chai and Matcha Lattes: For a naturally sweetened, earthy flavor, substitute oatmilk in these specialty lattes.
- Cold Brew: The creaminess of oatmilk complements the smooth, less acidic taste of cold brew coffee perfectly.
Vegan and Non-Vegan Flavor Swirls and Shots
While many customizations are compatible with a plant-based diet, it's crucial to know the difference between Flavor Shots and Flavor Swirls at Dunkin'.
- Flavor Shots (Vegan): These are unsweetened, sugar-free, and dairy-free, allowing you to add flavor without compromising a vegan order. Options include vanilla, hazelnut, toasted almond, blueberry, and raspberry.
- Flavor Swirls (Non-Vegan): These are dairy-based syrups that contain milk. They are sweeter and creamier than flavor shots but are not suitable for those avoiding dairy. Common swirl flavors include Caramel, Vanilla, and Mocha. However, some sources, like PETA, indicate the Mocha Swirl is now vegan-friendly, so it is always best to double-check in-store for confirmation.
Comparison of Dunkin's Non-Dairy Milk Options
For those weighing their non-dairy choices, here is a breakdown of Dunkin's plant-based offerings.
| Feature | Oatmilk | Almondmilk | Dairy Milk (Comparison) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Availability | Nationwide | Nationwide | Nationwide |
| Cost | No extra charge | No extra charge | Standard |
| Flavor Profile | Mild, naturally sweet, and oaty | Subtly nutty with vanilla notes | Creamy, sweet |
| Creaminess/Texture | Very creamy, thicker consistency | Thinner, lighter consistency | Rich, thick |
| Key Allergen | Gluten-free, though cross-contact risk remains | Tree nuts (almonds) | Dairy (lactose, milk proteins) |
| Best For... | Lattes, espresso drinks, and adding a rich mouthfeel | Lighter coffee, iced coffee, and macchiatos | All standard drinks requiring dairy |
The Growth of Plant-Based Options
Dunkin's embrace of oatmilk is a response to the rapidly growing demand for plant-based products. Studies have shown significant growth in the plant-based milk market over recent years, with oatmilk leading the charge. This expansion into dairy-free options positions Dunkin' as a more inclusive and modern brand, catering to a wider audience, from vegans and the lactose intolerant to those simply exploring new flavors. The removal of the upcharge further solidifies this commitment, making it easier for customers to make more sustainable and health-conscious choices.
Potential for Cross-Contamination
For individuals with severe dairy allergies, it is important to be aware of the risk of cross-contamination. Dunkin' notes that all menu items are prepared in the same area, meaning there's a chance that dairy could come into contact with your non-dairy beverage. While staff are often trained on proper procedures, those with severe sensitivities should consider this when ordering. For most people simply avoiding dairy, this low-level risk is acceptable.
Conclusion
In short, the answer to "does Dunkin' offer oatmilk?" is a definitive yes. Not only has it been a consistent menu option since 2020, but the company’s decision in early 2025 to make it a no-cost alternative has made it more appealing than ever. Using Planet Oat for its rich, creamy profile, Dunkin' provides a high-quality, vegan-friendly dairy substitute for a wide range of its hot and iced beverages. Whether you prefer a classic latte, a cold brew, or a flavored coffee, customizing your drink with oatmilk at Dunkin' has become a standard and seamless part of the ordering process.
Visit the official Dunkin' Newsroom for updates on menu offerings.
