Copycat Dunkin Coffee Milk Recipe

Imagine starting your day or wrapping up a comforting dinner with a beverage that’s both heartwarming and delightfully familiar yet intriguingly new. The Dunkin Coffee Milk, or as some affectionately call it, the “Dunkalatte,” offers just that. With its origins deeply rooted in the New England tradition, this beverage promises a unique take on the classic coffee milk, blending the familiar Dunkin’ coffee richness with the creamy sweetness of milk.

How to make Dunkin Coffee Milk

Dunkin’ Coffee Milk is a flavored milk beverage inspired by coffee milk, which is a regional specialty popular in Rhode Island and parts of New England. Traditional coffee milk is made by mixing coffee syrup (a sweet, concentrated coffee extract) with milk, similar to how chocolate milk is made with chocolate syrup.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons of coffee concentrate (You can use Dunkin’s original blend for an authentic taste or any rich, smooth coffee concentrate you love.)
• 1 cup of whole milk (For the most authentic experience, although you can substitute with 2% or any milk of your choice for dietary preferences.)
• 2 to 3 teaspoons of sweetener (This could be sugar, maple syrup, or any sweetener you prefer. Adjust according to your taste.)
• Ice cubes (optional for serving cold)
• Whipped cream (optional, for garnish)
• A sprinkle of coffee powder or cocoa (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Coffee Concentrate: If you haven’t already, brew a strong cup of your favorite coffee and allow it to cool. You can make this ahead of time and keep it chilled in the refrigerator.
2. Mix: In a glass or mug, combine the coffee concentrate and your sweetener of choice. Stir until the sweetener is completely dissolved. This is crucial for a smooth-tasting drink.
3. Add Milk: Pour the milk into the coffee mixture. Stir well to combine thoroughly. Taste and adjust sweetener if necessary.
4. Serve: If you’re serving it cold, fill a glass with ice cubes before pouring the coffee milk over them. For a warm beverage, heat the mixture gently on the stove or in the microwave, being careful not to let it boil.
5. Garnish: This step is optional but highly recommended for that special touch. Add a dollop of whipped cream on top, and sprinkle a little coffee powder or cocoa for an enticing presentation.

Tips for the Perfect Dunkin Coffee Milk:

• Coffee Concentrate: The quality of your coffee concentrate is key. For the most robust flavor, consider cold brewing your coffee concentrate, as it tends to produce a smoother, less acidic taste that beautifully complements the milk.
• Milk Matters: Whole milk adds the richest flavor and texture, but don’t shy away from experimenting with alternative milks like almond, oat, or soy to find your preferred taste and consistency.
• Sweetness Level: It is important to adjust the sweetness to your liking, as everyone’s palate is different. Start with less sweetener, taste, and then add more if needed.
• Serving Suggestions: Dunkin Coffee Milk is versatile. Enjoy it chilled on a hot summer day or warm it up for a comforting treat during the cooler months. Either way, it’s delicious.
• Make It Yours: Personalize your Dunkin Coffee Milk with add-ins like a dash of vanilla extract, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a shot of your favorite flavored syrup to make the drink uniquely yours.

What to serve with

The cozy, comforting essence of Dunkin Coffee Milk makes it a versatile beverage suited to a variety of occasions and meals.

Morning Bliss

For a breakfast that’s sure to start your day on a high note, consider these pairings:

• Classic Donuts: This is a no-brainer, especially since we’re drawing inspiration from Dunkin’ Donuts itself. A glazed, chocolate, or jelly donut pairs beautifully with the smooth richness of coffee milk.
• Bagels with Cream Cheese: The savory creaminess of a toasted bagel with cream cheese balances the sweet, creamy notes of the coffee milk.
• Savory Breakfast Sandwiches: Think bacon, egg, and cheese on a croissant or English muffin. The savory flavors contrast nicely with the sweet, creamy coffee milk, creating a satisfying meal.

Afternoon Delights

For a midday treat or a light lunch, these options are sure to hit the spot:

• Fruit Pastries: A light, fruit-filled pastry or tart offers a sweet but tart flavor that complements the richness of the coffee milk.
• Cheese and Crackers: For those preferring a savory afternoon snack, the sharpness of cheese paired with crackers provides a delightful contrast to the sweet and creamy beverage.
• Granola Bars: A chewy or crunchy granola bar, especially ones with nuts or chocolate chips, can add a textured, flavorful snack alongside your coffee milk.

Evening Treats

Wrap up your day with these comforting pairings:

• Chocolate Chip Cookies: There’s something magical about dunking a warm, gooey chocolate chip cookie into coffee milk. The blend of flavors and textures is impeccable.
• Cheesecake: The rich, creamy texture and the slight tang of a slice of cheesecake complement the smooth sweetness of Dunkin Coffee Milk fantastically.
• S’mores: If you’re feeling adventurous, the combination of graham cracker, melted chocolate, and marshmallow alongside a cold (or warm) coffee milk can evoke the joy of campfire evenings.

Seasonal and Special Occasions

For holidays or seasonal gatherings, consider these festive ideas:

• Pumpkin Bread: In the fall, a slice of moist pumpkin bread with its spices harmonizes with the comforting notes of the coffee milk.
• Gingerbread Cookies: During the holiday season, the spices in gingerbread cookies offer a delightful contrast to the creamy sweetness of your beverage.
• Strawberry Shortcake: In the spring or summer, a fresh, light strawberry shortcake pairs beautifully with a chilled glass of Dunkin Coffee Milk, offering a refreshing and satisfying dessert option.

Ingredients Substitutes

Creating your version of Dunkin Coffee Milk at home is not only satisfying but also customizable to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Given the fundamental ingredients include milk, coffee, and typically some form of sweetener, there’s plenty of room to adjust and substitute based on what you have on hand or personal health considerations.

Coffee

• Instant Coffee: If you don’t have access to Dunkin’s original coffee beans or grounds, instant coffee is a convenient and quick substitute. Adjust the strength to your preference by altering the amount of coffee per cup of water.
• Espresso: For a stronger coffee flavor, use a shot of espresso in place of brewed coffee. This will give your coffee milk a robust flavor and a richer aroma.
• Decaffeinated Coffee: For those sensitive to caffeine or enjoying their drink later in the day, decaffeinated coffee offers all the flavor without the stimulating effects.

Milk

• Oat Milk: A great dairy-free alternative, oat milk offers a creamy texture and slight sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your coffee milk.
• Almond Milk: Another non-dairy option, almond milk is lighter and has a nuttier taste compared to oat milk, providing a unique twist to your beverage.
• Soy Milk: With a creamy texture similar to whole milk, soy milk is an excellent substitute for those looking for a plant-based option that doesn’t compromise on creaminess.
• Lactose-Free Milk: For those who are lactose intolerant but still wish to enjoy the richness of dairy, lactose-free milk serves as a direct substitute.

Sweetener

• Maple Syrup: An all-natural sweetener, maple syrup adds a distinctive, warm flavor that beautifully complements the coffee.
• Honey: For a slightly floral sweetness, honey is a fantastic substitute. Its smooth texture easily blends into both hot and cold coffee milk.
• Stevia: A great option for those watching their sugar intake, stevia is a natural sweetener that’s much sweeter than sugar, so you’ll need less of it. Adjust to taste.
• Agave Syrup: This vegan sweetener dissolves quickly in both hot and cold beverages. Its neutral sweetness doesn’t overpower the coffee flavor.
• Coconut Sugar: With a lower glycemic index than regular sugar, coconut sugar brings a slight caramel flavor to your coffee milk, offering a more nuanced taste profile.

Final Thoughts

Creating Dunkin Coffee Milk at home not only brings a piece of New England tradition into your kitchen but also offers a canvas for your culinary creativity.

More Drink Recipes:

• Copycat Starbucks Cherry Cold Foam Recipe