The standard Starbucks Cinnamon Dolce Latte is a beloved blend of espresso, milk, sweet cinnamon syrup, whipped cream, and a special cinnamon dolce sugar topping. While the flavor is comforting and familiar, the default recipe is not vegan due to the dairy milk, whipped cream, and butter-containing topping. Fortunately, with a few easy tweaks, you can enjoy a delicious, warm, and completely plant-based version of this popular beverage.
The Vegan Ordering Basics
Creating your vegan Cinnamon Dolce Latte is a simple process of knowing which components to swap or omit. The key is communicating your specific requests clearly to the barista. Here are the three main things to remember:
- Swap the Milk: The most crucial step is to replace the standard 2% dairy milk with a non-dairy alternative. Starbucks offers several options, including oat milk, almond milk, soy milk, and coconut milk. Oat milk is a particularly popular choice for lattes due to its creamy texture and rich flavor profile, which pairs well with cinnamon.
- Omit the Whipped Cream: Standard whipped cream is dairy-based and must be left off the drink. For most US locations, there is no vegan alternative, so simply order your drink "without whipped cream." Some international and select test locations may offer a plant-based whip, but it is not standard.
- Skip the Topping: The official cinnamon dolce topping contains butter, making it non-vegan. You must specify "no cinnamon dolce topping." For a similar spicy touch, you can ask for a sprinkle of plain cinnamon or nutmeg powder instead, which is a vegan-friendly alternative.
Nutritional Comparison of Plant-Based Milks
Choosing your non-dairy milk isn't just about avoiding animal products; it also allows for nutritional customization based on your dietary needs. Here is a simple comparison of typical nutritional values for different milk options (note: actual values can vary by brand and formulation):
| Milk Type | Calories (per 8 oz) | Fat (g) | Protein (g) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oat Milk | ~100-120 | ~2.5-5 | ~2-4 | Often creamy, good for frothing. Varies based on brand's 'Barista Blend'. |
| Almond Milk | ~60-90 | ~2.5-4 | ~1-2 | Lower in calories than oat milk, nutty flavor. |
| Soy Milk | ~100-110 | ~4-5 | ~7-8 | Higher in protein, rich and creamy texture. A long-time vegan favorite. |
| Coconut Milk | ~80-100 | ~4-5 | ~1 | Tropical flavor, but thinner than other options. |
| Dairy Milk (Standard) | ~120-150 | ~5-8 | ~8 | The default option, contains saturated fat and cholesterol. |
Step-by-Step Ordering Guide
Navigating the ordering process can feel intimidating, but it's simple once you know the right terms. Follow this script for both hot and iced versions:
- Start with the base: "I'd like a Cinnamon Dolce Latte."
- Specify vegan: "Please make that with [your choice of milk, e.g., oat milk] and no whipped cream."
- Address the topping: "Also, please hold the cinnamon dolce topping. Could you add a sprinkle of plain cinnamon instead?"
- Clarify temperature: For a cold drink, simply add "iced" at the beginning: "I'd like an iced Cinnamon Dolce Latte..."
Can you make a vegan Cinnamon Dolce Frappuccino?
Yes, you can! The Frappuccino version follows a similar set of rules. Order a Cinnamon Dolce Crème Frappuccino with your preferred non-dairy milk. Be sure to request no whipped cream and no cinnamon dolce topping. The coffee base is also vegan. If you want a caffeinated version, order a Coffee Frappuccino with cinnamon dolce syrup, non-dairy milk, and no whipped cream or topping.
Other vegan flavor considerations
For additional customization, you can be confident that many of Starbucks' other clear syrups are vegan, including vanilla, caramel syrup (not the sauce), and hazelnut. The standard mocha sauce is also vegan. However, avoid the caramel drizzle (sauce), white mocha sauce, and pumpkin spice sauce, as these contain dairy.
Conclusion: Your Dairy-Free Cinnamon Fix
It is completely possible to enjoy a delicious, warm, and flavorful Cinnamon Dolce Latte that aligns with a vegan diet. By remembering to swap the milk, hold the whipped cream, and skip the dairy-based topping, you can confidently order a plant-based beverage without compromising on taste. Clear communication with your barista is the final ingredient to a perfect, guilt-free cinnamon treat. For more information on vegan options at Starbucks, you can reference resources like PETA's guide to ordering vegan at Starbucks, which details many of the substitutions and ingredients to avoid.
Enjoy your custom, compassionate coffee!
