Dunkin's Official UK 'Strong Brew' Protein Coffee
For UK customers, the answer to "What is the new Dunkin coffee with protein?" is the 'Strong Brew'. Introduced in January 2025 to align with New Year's resolutions, this menu item is a specifically crafted high-protein coffee. It was developed to meet the growing demand from health-conscious and fitness-focused customers seeking a functional beverage from a major coffee chain.
Key ingredients of the 'Strong Brew'
- Espresso: A shot of espresso provides the classic coffee flavor and caffeine kick.
- Semi-Skimmed Milk: Provides the base for the drink and contributes to its protein content.
- Sugar-Free Vanilla Syrup: Adds a smooth vanilla flavor without piling on extra sugar.
- Protein Mix: The formula is designed to deliver a significant protein boost, with the final drink containing around 20 grams of protein.
The 'Strong Brew' is available in both hot and iced options, making it a versatile choice for any weather. It's a convenient, guilt-free option for a post-workout drink or a mid-day pick-me-up. For a limited time, Dunkin' UK also offered promotions and bonus reward points to incentivize its purchase.
Popular DIY Dunkin' Protein Coffee Hacks (US and Worldwide)
For customers outside the UK, or those who prefer to customize their drinks, numerous popular protein coffee hacks have been developed by loyal Dunkin' fans. These recipes typically involve ordering a standard Dunkin' coffee and adding a high-protein ingredient brought from home or purchased separately.
How to build your own protein coffee
- Start with the Coffee Base: Choose a cold brew, iced coffee, or espresso base. Cold brew is a popular choice for its smooth, less acidic profile. A medium iced coffee in a large cup with room for cream is a common request.
- Add the Protein: Pour in your preferred ready-to-drink protein shake or a scoop of protein powder. Popular choices include Fairlife's Core Power or Premier Protein shakes. For powder, ensure the coffee is not too hot to avoid clumping.
- Customize the Flavor: Incorporate sugar-free syrups to control sweetness without adding calories. Common choices include sugar-free vanilla or blueberry.
- Finish with Toppings: For extra creaminess, some recipes suggest a dash of heavy whipping cream or a cold foam made separately.
The Dymatize x Dunkin' Collaboration
It's important to distinguish between in-store protein coffee and a separate product line. In 2021, athletic nutrition brand Dymatize collaborated with Dunkin' to release special edition protein powders. These whey protein powders came in Dunkin' Cappuccino and Dunkin' Mocha Latte flavors and contain 25 grams of protein and 95mg of caffeine per scoop. These are consumer goods sold in stores like Walmart or on sites like Amazon, not beverages prepared in Dunkin' restaurants.
Why is protein coffee so popular?
Protein coffee caters to several consumer needs, making it a trending beverage. The key benefits include:
- Muscle Recovery: Post-workout, the combination of protein for muscle repair and caffeine for an energy boost is highly effective.
- Sustained Energy: The addition of protein helps slow the absorption of caffeine, preventing the jittery spike and subsequent crash often associated with coffee.
- Increased Satiety: Protein promotes a feeling of fullness, which can help curb appetite and support weight management goals.
- Convenience: For busy individuals, it's a quick and easy way to combine a morning caffeine fix with a substantial nutritional boost.
Comparison of Dunkin' Protein Options
| Feature | Dunkin' UK 'Strong Brew' | DIY Dunkin' Protein Coffee (e.g., Core Power Hack) |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | Dunkin' UK locations only. | US and international Dunkin' locations (requires personal ingredients). |
| Source | Official Dunkin' menu item. | Customer-created recipe using third-party products. |
| Preparation | Prepared by Dunkin' staff. | Assembled by the customer. |
| Protein Content | ~20g per serving (as advertised). | Varies by protein shake used; some hacks report up to 42g. |
| Customization | Flavor and base (hot/iced) are fixed. | Highly customizable with choice of coffee base, protein source, and syrups. |
| Sugar Content | Uses sugar-free vanilla syrup. | Varies by ingredients used; can be kept low with sugar-free syrups. |
Choosing the right protein coffee for you
For UK residents seeking a reliable, pre-made option, the 'Strong Brew' is the most straightforward choice. It offers a standardized and convenient experience with 20 grams of protein, making it ideal for a quick pick-me-up or post-gym fuel.
For everyone else, especially in the US, the DIY route offers unparalleled flexibility. By bringing your own shake or powder, you can fine-tune the flavor and protein content to your exact preferences. This approach empowers you to control the ingredients, sweetness, and overall nutritional profile of your drink. However, it requires more preparation and relies on external products.
Tips for the DIY method
- Use a high-quality protein powder that dissolves well to avoid a gritty texture.
- Consider using a milk-based protein shake like Core Power for a creamier finish.
- Ensure your coffee is not boiling hot when adding protein powder, as it can cause clumping.
- Experiment with different flavor combinations using sugar-free syrups to find your perfect mix.
Conclusion
The new Dunkin coffee with protein is an evolution of a growing trend, with different versions available depending on location and your approach. While the UK enjoys the official 'Strong Brew' menu item, customers elsewhere can leverage popular and customizable DIY recipes to create their own protein-packed coffee. The key takeaway is that whether you opt for an official drink or a personal concoction, Dunkin' provides a platform for health-conscious consumers to fuel up without sacrificing their coffee craving. The existence of both official and unofficial protein coffee options highlights Dunkin's responsiveness to evolving customer demands and the creativity of its community. For more details on the official UK menu, visit the Dunkin' UK blog.
