Yes, Dunkin's Matcha is Made with Pre-Sweetened Powder
For those wondering if Dunkin's matcha is presweetened, the definitive answer is yes. Unlike traditional, ceremonial-grade matcha, the product used by Dunkin' is a blended powder that includes cane sugar as a primary ingredient. This information is available on Dunkin's official menu and in ingredient breakdowns found online. For this reason, it is impossible to order a completely unsweetened matcha latte at Dunkin', as the sweetness is built directly into the powder itself. This pre-sweetened formula results in a final drink that has a distinctly sweeter, more dessert-like flavor profile compared to an earthy, traditional matcha.
The Dunkin' Matcha Ingredients Breakdown
The matcha powder blend used by Dunkin' contains three core ingredients: cane sugar, matcha green tea, and fruit pectin. Fruit pectin acts as a thickener, which helps with the drink's texture. The presence of cane sugar is the most important detail for customers monitoring their sugar intake. This blend, rumored to be Aiya Zen Cafe Blend, creates a consistent and accessible flavor for a wide customer base, but it comes at the expense of an authentically unsweetened option.
Can You Make Dunkin' Matcha Less Sweet?
While you cannot eliminate the sweetness, you can take steps to reduce the overall sugary taste of your Dunkin' matcha latte. Since the sugar is part of the powder, requesting fewer pumps of any additional sweetener (like liquid cane sugar) is the most effective approach. Here are some tips for customizing:
- Choose a Low-Sugar Milk: Opt for skim milk or unsweetened almond milk to avoid adding further sugar. Some plant-based milks naturally contain more sugar, so check the nutritional information if you are concerned.
- Use Flavor Shots, Not Swirls: Flavor shots are unsweetened and can add a different dimension of taste without increasing the sugar content. Flavors like blueberry or raspberry can be good options. Flavor swirls, on the other hand, are loaded with sugar and will make your drink even sweeter.
- Order a Smaller Size: A small iced matcha will contain less total sugar than a medium or large, as fewer scoops of the pre-sweetened powder are used.
- Add Extra Shots of Matcha: For a more intense tea flavor that cuts through the sweetness, you can ask for an extra scoop of matcha powder. Note that this will also add more sugar, so it is a trade-off.
Comparison: Dunkin' vs. Starbucks vs. Homemade Matcha
Many consumers compare Dunkin's matcha to competitors, especially Starbucks. This comparison highlights a major difference in recent years. As of early 2025, Starbucks updated its formula to use an unsweetened matcha powder, giving customers more control over their beverage's sweetness level.
| Feature | Dunkin' Matcha Latte | Starbucks Matcha Latte (Post-Jan 2025) | Homemade Matcha Latte |
|---|---|---|---|
| Powder | Pre-sweetened blend (with cane sugar) | Unsweetened powder | Pure, unsweetened powder |
| Sweetness | Inherently sweet; can only add more | Fully customizable, from unsweetened to very sweet | Completely controlled by you |
| Sugar Content | High; approx. 28g for a medium | Varies based on customization; can be sugar-free | Minimal to none, based on preference |
| Flavor Profile | Sweet, creamy, dessert-like; earthy notes are secondary | Earthy and grassy; flavor profile depends on customization | Authentic, robust matcha flavor |
| Health Impact | Less healthy due to high sugar content | Healthier option with controlled sugar | Healthiest option, customizable with natural sweeteners |
| Texture | Can sometimes be clumpy if not properly blended | Generally smoother due to updated blending methods | Smooth and frothy with a proper whisk |
The Health Implications of a Pre-Sweetened Matcha
The high sugar content in Dunkin's pre-sweetened matcha can negate some of the recognized health benefits of green tea. A single medium matcha latte with 28 grams of sugar can push or even exceed the American Heart Association's recommended daily limit for added sugars. While matcha is known for its antioxidants and calming L-theanine, the heavy sugar load introduces additional calories and a potential blood sugar spike. This makes it more of a treat than a healthy daily beverage for many people.
Conclusion
Dunkin's matcha is definitively presweetened with a powder blend that includes cane sugar. This makes it impossible to get a truly unsweetened drink, unlike at other cafes like Starbucks, which now uses an unsweetened powder. For those seeking an authentically earthy matcha, this is an important fact to know. While you can use flavor shots and different milk options to alter the taste, the underlying sweetness will always be present. Customers seeking minimal sugar in their matcha should consider making their own at home for complete control or visiting a cafe with unsweetened options. For more information on the brand of matcha used by Dunkin' and further comparisons, you can consult articles from reliable sources like Tasting Table.
