Navigating the menu at Dunkin' to find sweetened vegan options can be tricky due to the distinction between 'Flavor Shots' and 'Flavor Swirls'. This guide breaks down what you can safely order to customize your coffee or tea with a sweet, animal-product-free taste.
Understanding the Difference: Shots vs. Swirls
The key to ordering vegan at Dunkin' is understanding the difference between Flavor Shots and Flavor Swirls. This distinction is critical because nearly all Flavor Swirls contain dairy, while all Flavor Shots are dairy-free and unsweetened. When ordering, always specify 'shot' to avoid dairy-based swirls.
Vegan Flavor Shots (Dairy-Free & Unsweetened)
Flavor shots are the go-to for customizing your drink with a hint of flavor without extra sugar or dairy. To sweeten a drink with a flavor shot, you must add a separate vegan sweetener. The following are consistently vegan-friendly:
- Vanilla Flavor Shot: A classic, creamy vanilla taste that pairs well with almost any beverage.
- Hazelnut Flavor Shot: Offers a nutty aroma and flavor for a rich, warm addition.
- Toasted Almond Flavor Shot: Provides a deeper, slightly smoky almond essence.
- Blueberry Flavor Shot: A bright, fruity option for both coffee and tea drinks.
- Raspberry Flavor Shot: Gives a tart and sweet berry flavor, excellent in iced tea or cold brew.
- Coconut Flavor Shot: Adds a tropical twist to any drink.
Vegan Flavor Swirls (Sweetened & Creamy)
Flavor Swirls are Dunkin's richer, more decadent, and already-sweetened syrups. They generally contain dairy, making most off-limits for vegans. However, there is a notable exception.
- Mocha Swirl: This is the only classic Flavor Swirl that is confirmed to be dairy-free and therefore vegan-friendly. It provides a rich, sweet chocolate flavor. Seasonal swirls, such as Pumpkin Spice and Caramel, typically contain dairy, so always double-check the ingredients for new offerings.
Creating Your Perfect Vegan Dunkin' Order
To build a delicious vegan drink, you'll need a base, a vegan milk, and your chosen vegan sweetened flavor.
Base Drink Options
- Coffee: Hot or iced, including cold brew and espresso-based drinks like lattes and macchiatos.
- Teas: All hot and iced teas are vegan when served plain.
- Refreshers: The Strawberry Dragonfruit and Peach Passionfruit refreshers are vegan-friendly.
- Coolattas: The Blue Raspberry and Strawberry Coolatta frozen beverages are vegan.
Non-Dairy Milk Choices
- Almondmilk: A classic vegan alternative.
- Oatmilk: Creamy and popular, often preferred for its texture.
- Coconutmilk: Adds a subtle tropical flavor.
Bringing it all Together
To make a sweetened and vegan drink, you have two main approaches:
- For a rich, sweet chocolate flavor: Order your coffee or espresso with Mocha Swirl and your choice of non-dairy milk. For example, an Iced Oatmilk Latte with Mocha Swirl is a creamy and satisfying option.
- For other flavors with added sweetness: Order your drink with one of the Flavor Shots (Vanilla, Hazelnut, etc.) and add a separate sweetener, such as plain sugar, which is also vegan. For instance, a Cold Brew with a Coconut Flavor Shot, a packet of sugar, and almond milk is a great customizable choice.
Dunkin' Flavors: Shots vs. Swirls Comparison
| Feature | Flavor Shots | Flavor Swirls |
|---|---|---|
| Vegan Options | All are vegan (Vanilla, Hazelnut, Toasted Almond, Blueberry, Raspberry, Coconut) | Only Mocha Swirl (always confirm seasonal options) |
| Dairy Content | Dairy-free | Contain dairy, except for Mocha Swirl |
| Sweetness | Unsweetened; requires separate sweetener | Pre-sweetened for convenience |
| Texture | Thin, syrup-like consistency | Thicker, richer, and creamy |
| Calorie Count (Medium) | Approximately 5-10 calories | Approximately 150-160 calories |
Ordering Tips and Conclusion
When ordering at Dunkin', communication is key. Always state your drink preferences clearly and specify the use of a non-dairy milk and a 'flavor shot' instead of a 'swirl' unless you specifically want the Mocha Swirl. Be mindful that cross-contamination is always a possibility in a shared kitchen environment, so if you have a severe allergy, it's best to take caution. With this knowledge, you can enjoy a wide variety of delicious, customizable, and vegan-friendly beverages at Dunkin'.
