Does the Canned Starbucks Doubleshot Contain Dairy?
For consumers grabbing a ready-to-drink (RTD) product from a convenience store, the answer is straightforward: yes, the canned Starbucks Doubleshot contains dairy. These beverages are formulated for a creamy, ready-to-enjoy experience that includes milk products. Ingredients vary slightly depending on the specific product, but milk is a consistent component.
Common Dairy Ingredients in Canned Doubleshots
- Doubleshot Energy: The ingredient list for Doubleshot Energy drinks frequently includes both reduced-fat milk and skim milk. These drinks also often contain added vitamins and energy-boosting compounds like ginseng and guarana.
- Doubleshot Espresso Latte: Canned Doubleshot Espresso Latte products typically list milk solids as a core ingredient, along with water, sugar, and coffee extract. The milk solids provide the signature creamy texture.
- Doubleshot Mocha: Similar to the other flavors, the canned Doubleshot Mocha is made with milk solids to achieve its rich, creamy consistency.
To be certain, always check the allergen statement on the packaging, which will explicitly state if the product "Contains Milk." As these are pre-packaged, the formulation cannot be customized to be dairy-free.
Customizing a Handcrafted Doubleshot In-Store
If you are ordering a Doubleshot at a physical Starbucks location, your options for dairy-free beverages open up significantly. The key is customization, a cornerstone of the Starbucks experience. The standard preparation for some Doubleshot-style drinks does include dairy, but a simple request to your barista can change that.
How Handcrafted Drinks Differ
While the name "Doubleshot" applies to the ready-to-drink cans, the in-store equivalent often refers to the Iced Shaken Espresso beverages. The standard recipe for these drinks involves shaking espresso shots with classic syrup and ice, then topping with a splash of milk. The type and amount of milk can vary, but it's typically a small addition.
Ordering a Dairy-Free Doubleshot
To make a handcrafted Doubleshot drink dairy-free, simply follow these steps:
- Specify No Milk: When ordering, ask for no standard milk or cream.
- Request a Non-Dairy Alternative: Ask to have your beverage finished with a non-dairy milk of your choice. Options typically include:
- Almond milk
- Coconut milk
- Soy milk
- Oat milk, a popular choice for its creamy texture
- Confirm the Drizzle (for specialty drinks): Be mindful of any drizzles. For example, caramel drizzle contains milk and is not vegan. In this case, ask for the drizzle to be omitted or replaced with a vegan-friendly syrup.
Since November 2024 in the US and Canada, Starbucks has eliminated the extra charge for non-dairy milk substitutes in handcrafted beverages, making this customization more accessible for customers.
Comparison: Canned vs. Handcrafted Doubleshot
To clarify the differences, here is a helpful comparison table:
| Feature | Canned Starbucks Doubleshot (Energy, Latte) | Handcrafted Doubleshot (Iced Shaken Espresso) |
|---|---|---|
| Dairy Content | Yes. Contains milk solids, reduced-fat, or skim milk. | Yes, by default. Topped with standard milk or half-and-half. |
| Customization | No. Pre-packaged with fixed ingredients. | Yes. Can substitute standard milk with non-dairy milk. |
| Vegan Option | No. Not suitable for a vegan or dairy-free diet. | Yes. Possible with non-dairy milk substitutions. |
| Availability | Grocery stores, convenience stores, gas stations. | Exclusively at Starbucks retail locations. |
| Allergen Check | Read the printed ingredient label carefully. | Inform the barista of your dietary needs. |
Conclusion: Navigating Dairy in Your Starbucks Doubleshot
The short answer to "Does Starbucks double shot have dairy?" is a qualified yes, but your options differ dramatically depending on how you get your coffee. If you are reaching for a ready-to-drink can, assume it contains dairy and always double-check the label for milk-based ingredients. For those with dairy sensitivities or a vegan diet, the in-store handcrafted Doubleshot is your best bet, as it can be easily customized with a non-dairy milk alternative like oat milk or almond milk. Thanks to the updated policy, this customization no longer comes with an additional charge. By being aware of the ingredients and communicating your needs to your barista, you can enjoy a delicious and dairy-free version of this bold espresso drink.
For more information on Starbucks' non-dairy options and policies, you can visit their official stories page: Starbucks Stories: Big news about non-dairy milk.
