Navigating Dunkin's Flavor Offerings: Swirls vs. Shots
When customizing a beverage at Dunkin', the first step is to understand the difference between a flavor swirl and a flavor shot. This distinction is critical for anyone avoiding dairy, as the majority of Dunkin's swirls contain dairy products, such as sweetened condensed milk. Flavor swirls are thick, creamy, and sweet, designed to add both flavor and richness to a drink. In contrast, flavor shots are unsweetened, sugar-free, and watery concentrates that provide a burst of pure flavor without any creamy texture. Crucially for non-dairy customers, all flavor shots are dairy-free, while only a select few swirls are.
The Non-Dairy Swirls at Dunkin' Donuts
For those who love the creamy richness of a swirl but need a dairy-free option, the selection is limited but delicious. The list of what are the non dairy swirls at Dunkin Donuts includes both a year-round staple and specific seasonal offerings.
- Mocha Swirl: The Mocha Swirl is the only permanent, year-round dairy-free swirl on the Dunkin' menu. This rich, decadent chocolate flavor can be added to any hot or iced beverage with your choice of non-dairy milk for a creamy and satisfying treat. Its availability makes it a reliable choice for dairy-free customers year-round.
- Seasonal Non-Dairy Swirls: Dunkin' occasionally offers seasonal swirls that are dairy-free. Past seasonal offerings have included the Peppermint Mocha Swirl and the Brown Sugar Cookie Swirl. These are a welcome addition during the holidays and other promotional periods, providing a temporary but tasty option. However, their availability depends on the current menu, so it's always best to check the Dunkin' app or website for the most up-to-date information.
Customizing Your Drink with Non-Dairy Options
To create a delicious dairy-free beverage, start with a base of black coffee, cold brew, or espresso and add your preferred non-dairy milk and flavorings.
Non-Dairy Milks
Dunkin' offers several plant-based milk alternatives that can be substituted for regular milk in most drinks, and the surcharge was eliminated in 2025. Your choices are:
- Almondmilk: Introduced in 2014, almond milk offers a nutty, vanilla-noted profile.
- Oatmilk: Added to the menu in 2020, oat milk provides a creamier texture than almond milk and is a popular option for lattes.
- Coconutmilk: Another fan-favorite non-dairy milk alternative available for custom orders.
Dairy-Free Flavor Shots
For those who want to control the sweetness and avoid the creaminess of a swirl, flavor shots are the perfect solution. All flavor shots are unsweetened and dairy-free. Current and classic flavor shots include:
- Vanilla
- Hazelnut
- Toasted Almond
- Blueberry
- Raspberry
- Coconut
Comparison Table: Flavor Swirls vs. Flavor Shots
To summarize the key differences, refer to this table:
| Feature | Flavor Swirls | Flavor Shots |
|---|---|---|
| Dairy Content | Most contain dairy; exceptions include Mocha and specific seasonal options. | All are dairy-free. |
| Sweetness | Sweet and indulgent. | Unsweetened and sugar-free. |
| Calories | High, approximately 150-160 calories per medium drink. | Low, approximately 5-10 calories per medium drink. |
| Texture | Thick, creamy, and rich. | Thin and watery. |
| Purpose | Adds rich flavor and creaminess. | Adds a concentrated burst of flavor. |
How to Order the Perfect Dairy-Free Drink
Combining the right ingredients is key to a delicious customized beverage. Start with a drink base like a hot coffee, iced coffee, cold brew, or latte. Next, add your choice of non-dairy milk. Finally, select a non-dairy swirl like mocha or a seasonal option, or opt for a dairy-free flavor shot for a lighter flavor profile. For instance, an Iced Oatmilk Latte with a Mocha Swirl is a popular choice for a creamy, chocolatey coffee experience. Or, for a lighter option, a Cold Brew with Almondmilk and a Raspberry Flavor Shot is a refreshing alternative. Always confirm with your server that the swirl you are ordering is one of the dairy-free options, as the menu can change and not all employees are always up-to-date.
Conclusion
While many of Dunkin's classic flavor swirls contain dairy, there are still excellent options for crafting a flavorful non-dairy beverage. The Mocha Swirl is a reliable, year-round dairy-free choice, supplemented by occasional seasonal offerings like Peppermint Mocha and Brown Sugar Cookie. Paired with one of Dunkin's non-dairy milks—almondmilk, oatmilk, or coconutmilk—and a wide selection of dairy-free flavor shots, customers have numerous ways to enjoy a creamy, flavorful drink. By understanding the difference between swirls and shots, you can confidently customize your next coffee to be both delicious and dairy-free.
For more official details on Dunkin's non-dairy menu items, you can visit their newsroom here.
