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What is the healthiest item to eat at Dunkin Donuts?

4 min read

According to Dunkin's DDSmart menu initiative, some items contain at least 25% less saturated fat, sugar, or sodium than others, proving that a healthy meal can be found at the chain. So, what is the healthiest item to eat at Dunkin Donuts? The answer depends on your specific nutritional goals, but several choices stand out.

Quick Summary

This guide evaluates Dunkin's menu to find the healthiest choices, including low-calorie and high-protein breakfast items, snacks, and beverages, based on nutritional content.

Key Points

  • Egg White & Veggie Omelet Bites: These bites are a high-protein, low-carb choice with just 180 calories per order, making them one of the most balanced options.

  • Black Coffee or Unsweetened Tea: For beverages, these are the top choice, containing minimal calories and no added sugars.

  • Wake-Up Wraps: The Egg & Cheese Wake-Up Wrap is a light, customizable, and protein-focused breakfast option. Adding ham or turkey sausage provides more protein for a minimal calorie increase.

  • Avocado Toast: A source of heart-healthy fats and fiber, this is an excellent plant-based choice for satiety and nutrients.

  • The French Cruller: When craving a donut, this is the lowest-calorie and lightest option available.

  • Customization Is Key: To significantly reduce sugar and calories, order drinks with skim or almond milk and use sugar-free flavor shots instead of swirls.

  • Prioritize Protein: Focusing on items with a good protein count, like the omelet bites or wraps, helps you stay full and energized longer.

In This Article

Navigating the DDSmart Menu for Smarter Choices

For those seeking a more nutritious visit to Dunkin', the DDSmart menu is a great place to start. This dedicated menu highlights items that meet specific nutritional criteria, including reduced saturated fat, sodium, or sugar content compared to standard offerings. By focusing on these items, customers can make informed decisions that align with their health and wellness goals without sacrificing flavor. Beyond the DDSmart menu, making small customizations is key to controlling the overall health profile of your meal, from choosing lean proteins to opting for lower-fat dairy in your drinks.

The Healthiest Breakfast Selections

When starting your day at Dunkin', prioritizing protein and fiber can provide sustained energy and keep you full longer.

Egg White & Veggie Omelet Bites

This item is a strong contender for the healthiest option. Served in a set of two, the Egg White & Veggie Omelet Bites are a protein-packed and low-carb choice. They contain 180 calories and 13 grams of protein, making them an excellent choice for a filling, balanced start. Made with egg whites, spinach, and cheese, these bites offer significant flavor without the high calories and fat of many other breakfast sandwiches.

Wake-Up Wraps

For a more traditional breakfast feel, the Wake-Up Wrap is a customizable, portion-controlled alternative to larger, higher-calorie sandwiches. The base Egg & Cheese Wake-Up Wrap has 180 calories and 7 grams of protein. To boost the protein content and keep calories in check, you can add leaner proteins like ham or turkey sausage, which are healthier than pork sausage. Ordering two can create a more substantial meal while remaining relatively low in calories.

Avocado Toast

Dunkin's Avocado Toast is a fantastic plant-based option rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and fiber, which are vital for satiety and overall health. Served on multigrain toast, it provides a filling and nutrient-dense way to start your day.

Oatmeal

Plain oatmeal offers a good source of fiber, but the nutritional value can be compromised by sugary toppings. To make it a truly healthy option, ask for the dried fruit and brown sugar on the side or omit them entirely to control the added sugar content.

Smarter Snack and Treat Choices

When a craving for something sweet or salty hits, these choices offer a more moderate option.

The French Cruller

Among the donut options, the French Cruller is your best bet. It is the lowest-calorie donut on the menu, making it the least indulgent treat when you want to satisfy a craving without going overboard. Its light, airy texture and less-sugary glaze make it a better choice than heavier, frosted donuts.

Hash Browns

These toasted and seasoned hash browns come in a six-piece serving for 130 calories. As a side dish or small snack, they are a reasonable option that provides a satisfying bit of carbs without being overly heavy.

Snacking Bacon

If you follow a low-carb or keto-friendly diet, the cracked black pepper snacking bacon is a suitable option. It's a convenient, protein-rich snack that won't disrupt your diet as much as a sweet treat.

The Healthiest Beverages

Your drink choice is critical, as many popular options are loaded with sugar.

Black Coffee or Tea

For the absolute healthiest drink, black coffee or plain unsweetened tea is the way to go. A medium black coffee contains just 5 calories with zero sugar. It's a simple, hydrating, and low-calorie way to get your caffeine fix.

Lattes with Customizations

If you prefer a creamier coffee, you can still make a healthy choice by customizing your order. Opt for skim or almond milk and ask for sugar-free syrups instead of the sugary flavor swirls and whipped cream. For example, a skim milk macchiato is only 90 calories for a large.

Comparison Table: Healthy vs. Indulgent Options

Item Calories Fat Saturated Fat Protein Sugar
Egg White & Veggie Omelet Bites (2) 180 kcal 11g 7g 13g 2g
Sausage, Egg & Cheese Croissant 720 kcal 52g 20g 21g 1g
Medium Black Coffee 5 kcal 0g 0g 1g 0g
Medium Caramel Craze Signature Latte 410 kcal 14g 8g 11g 57g
Egg & Cheese Wake-Up Wrap 180 kcal 10g 4g 7g 1g

Making Healthy Choices on the Go

Choosing the healthiest item at Dunkin' is all about being a mindful consumer. It involves looking beyond the sugary treats and prioritizing options that offer protein, fiber, and lower calorie counts. Starting with items from the DDSmart menu or making simple customizations to your drink can significantly improve the nutritional profile of your order. For example, a nutritious and balanced meal could be a Veggie Egg White Omelet Bite paired with a black coffee. Alternatively, an Avocado Toast combined with an unsweetened iced tea is a great option. Remember, small changes add up over time. By knowing the nutritional information and asking for specific preparations, you can enjoy Dunkin' without compromising your health goals. While a donut is an occasional treat, the best daily options are those that provide sustained energy and nutritional value.

For the most up-to-date nutritional information, refer to the official source: Dunkin' Donuts Nutrition.

Conclusion

While Dunkin' is synonymous with donuts and sugary coffee, a healthy and satisfying meal or snack is easily achievable. For the single healthiest item, the Egg White & Veggie Omelet Bites are a top contender due to their excellent balance of protein, calories, and low carbs. However, your best choice depends on your needs. For a plant-based meal, the Avocado Toast is a solid pick. For a sweet treat, the French Cruller is the most moderate option. By understanding your options and customizing your order, you can confidently navigate the menu and make choices that support a healthy lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, the Egg White & Veggie Omelet Bites are a very healthy option, with 180 calories and 13g of protein per order, making them a great choice for a balanced, low-carb breakfast.

Dunkin's Avocado Toast is a good choice for healthy fats and fiber. It's a filling and nutrient-dense, plant-based breakfast served on multigrain toast.

For the healthiest coffee, order it black or with a splash of skim milk or unsweetened almond milk. You should also avoid sugary swirls and whipped cream.

The French Cruller is generally considered the lowest-calorie donut on the menu, making it a better choice if you are craving a sweet treat.

To make your Wake-Up Wrap healthier, choose the egg and cheese version or opt for turkey sausage or ham instead of fattier meats. You can also skip the cheese if you want to reduce sodium and fat further.

Dunkin's oatmeal can be a healthy, fiber-rich option. To minimize sugar, however, ask for the brown sugar and dried fruit toppings to be served on the side or left off.

For healthier eating, it's best to avoid high-sugar items like flavored lattes with swirls, large muffins, and any sandwich served on a croissant, as these items tend to be significantly higher in calories, fat, and sugar.

References

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Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.