Copycat Dunkalatte Recipe

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Sipping on my trial iterations, with the aromas of espresso blending harmoniously with the distinct sweetness reminiscent of Rhode Island’s cherished coffee milk, I knew I was onto something special. It was more than just about concocting a drink; it was about encapsulating an experience, a warm hug in a mug that could whisk you away to your snugest autumn memories with just one taste. Let me guide you through creating your very own Dunkalatte at home.

How to make Dunkalatte

The Dunkalatte is a new coffee beverage introduced by Dunkin‘ for their fall menu. It is described as a creamier and richer version of a typical latte, taking inspiration from Rhode Island’s official drink, coffee milk.

Ingredients:

For the Coffee Milk Base:

• 1 cup whole milk (for the richest taste, though alternatives can be used)
• 2-3 tablespoons coffee syrup (like Autocrat or any brand you prefer; adjust to taste)

For the Espresso:

• 2 shots of espresso (about 2 ounces; strong brewed coffee if you don’t have an espresso maker)

Additional:

• Whipped cream (optional for topping)
• A dash of cocoa powder or cinnamon (optional for garnishing)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Coffee Milk:

1. In a small saucepan or a microwave-safe cup, gently warm the milk. Do not bring it to a boil; you just want it warm enough to thoroughly mix with the coffee syrup.
2. Stir in the coffee syrup, adjusting the amount based on how sweet and coffee-flavored you like your milk. Whisk until fully incorporated.

2. Brew Your Espresso:

1. While your milk is warming, brew your espresso shots. If you don’t have an espresso machine, strong brewed coffee concentrated in half the usual water amount will work in a pinch. Aim for a robust flavor to mimic the espresso’s intensity.

3. Assemble Your Dunkalatte:

1. Pour the flavored milk into a large mug. If you’ve made the milk in a saucepan, this is a good time to strain it for a silky-smooth texture.
2. Carefully pour in the hot espresso shots over your milk. The idea is to maintain layers before the final mix.
3. Gently combine the espresso with the coffee milk with a spoon or a small whisk to get that beautiful Dunkalatte blend.

4. Garnish (Optional):

1. If you’re feeling indulgent, top your Dunkalatte with a generous dollop of whipped cream.
2. Sprinkle some cocoa powder or cinnamon on top for an extra touch of comfort and warmth.

Tips for the Perfect Dunkalatte:

• Milk Choice: Whole milk offers the creamiest result, but you can substitute it with any milk or milk alternative you prefer. Just note that the creaminess and overall flavor profile might vary.
• Coffee Syrup: The coffee syrup is central to recreating the authentic Dunkalatte flavor. You can find it in most supermarkets or online. Alternatively, experimenting with homemade coffee syrup could add a personalized touch.
• Espresso vs. Coffee: For authenticity, espresso is recommended due to its concentrated flavor and richness. However, strong-brewed coffee can be a suitable substitute. The key is the strength of the brew— it should be potent.
• Temperature Matters: For an iced Dunkalatte, cool the coffee-milk mixture before adding ice and then the espresso. You won’t need to warm the milk if you go this route.

What to serve with

Serving the right accompaniment with your homemade Dunkalatte can elevate your coffee experience, turning a simple beverage into a sumptuous affair. Think of your Dunkalatte as the star of the show, with each pairing acting as a supporting character that complements its rich, creamy, and slightly sweet profile.

1. Classic Breakfast Items: A Dunkalatte pairs wonderfully with traditional breakfast dishes. Think of fluffy pancakes drizzled with maple syrup, a side of crispy bacon, or even a warm, buttery croissant. These classic items not only complement the coffee’s richness but also provide a delightful contrast between savory and sweet.

2. Autumn-Inspired Baked Goods: Lean into the Dunkalatte’s cozy fall vibe with baked goods that celebrate the season. Pumpkin bread, spiced apple muffins, or cinnamon rolls make for perfect companions, echoing the warm spices and comforting flavors that pair seamlessly with the coffee’s profile.

3. Heartier Brunch Options: For a more filling option, consider brunch dishes like a savory quiche Lorraine, eggs Benedict on a bed of arugula, or a sweet and savory Monte Cristo sandwich. The complexity and richness of these dishes balance the Dunkalatte’s smooth and creamy essence.

4. Healthy Snacks: If you’re looking for something lighter to pair with your Dunkalatte, opt for snacks like almond biscotti, which offers a delightful crunch without overwhelming sweetness, or a plate of fresh fruit drizzled with honey. Greek yogurt with a sprinkle of granola and berries can also complement the coffee while keeping things healthier.

5. Dessert Pairings: For those late afternoon or evening Dunkalatte moments, pair it with a slice of decadent chocolate cake, a rich tiramisu, or a homemade coffee-flavored ice cream. The coffee element in your beverage will enhance the desserts’ flavors, making for a luxurious treat.

6. Seasonal Specialties: Don’t forget the seasonal specialties like roasted chestnuts, spiced cookies, or a slice of apple pie with a dollop of vanilla ice cream. These seasonal delights pair wonderfully and amplify the overall autumn experience.

7. Cheese and Charcuterie: Try your Dunkalatte with a carefully selected cheese and charcuterie board for an unconventional but sophisticated pairing. Choose cheeses with nutty, creamy profiles like Gouda or Brie, and add some cured meats, nuts, and dried fruits for a balanced flavor experience.

Ingredients Substitutes

Creating a Dunkalatte, a rich and creamy coffee beverage that’s both comforting and indulgent, can sometimes require a bit of creativity, especially when you’re missing an ingredient or two or want to adapt it to your dietary needs.

Coffee Base

• Espresso: If you don’t have an espresso machine, you can use strong brewed coffee as an alternative. Use a French press, AeroPress, or even a drip coffee maker, but make the coffee stronger than usual to mimic the concentrated flavor of espresso.
• Instant Coffee: In a pinch, instant coffee can work. Opt for a high-quality, finely ground version to get as close to the rich flavor of espresso as possible.

Milk

• Whole Milk: This is the standard for achieving a creamy texture. However, if you want to cut down on fats or are dairy-free, there are alternatives.
• Almond Milk: For a nutty flavor and lighter texture, almond milk is a great substitute, although it won’t froth as well as whole milk.
• Oat Milk: Thick and creamy, oat milk is excellent for frothing and provides a slightly sweet flavor, making it a fantastic dairy-free alternative.
• Soy Milk is another dairy-free alternative that froths well. Its mild taste complements the coffee well.
• Coconut Milk: For a tropical twist and a hint of coconut flavor, use canned coconut milk. However, it can significantly alter the drink’s flavor profile.

Sweetener

• Sugar: If the recipe calls for white sugar and you’re looking for alternatives, there are several.
• Honey: A natural sweetener that adds a distinct flavor. Start with less than the recipe calls for, as it’s sweeter than sugar and can overpower the drink.
• Maple Syrup: Adds a beautiful, rich sweetness with a hint of maple, perfect for a fall-inspired beverage version.
• Agave Nectar: A vegan-friendly option that’s slightly sweeter than sugar, so adjust the quantity accordingly.
• Stevia: If you’re looking for a sugar-free alternative, stevia can be used. However, its sweetness is much more concentrated, so you’ll need far less.

Flavor Enhancements

• Cinnamon or Nutmeg: If the recipe suggests one, but you prefer the other or have only one available, feel free to substitute directly. Both spices bring warmth and depth.
• Vanilla Extract: For recipes that call for vanilla beans or paste, vanilla extract is a more readily available and cheaper alternative, though it may alter the flavor slightly. Use a pure extract rather than imitation for the best taste.
• Pumpkin Spice: If you’re making a fall variant and lack individual spices like cloves, nutmeg, or cinnamon, pumpkin spice mix can work as an all-in-one substitute, capturing the essence of autumn.

Cocoa Powder

• Cocoa Powder: If the recipe calls for cocoa powder and you have none, you can substitute it with an equal amount of unsweetened chocolate, reducing the fat elsewhere in the recipe. Or, for a milder taste, the hot chocolate mix could be used in a pinch, though you’ll need to reduce the sweetener to compensate for the sugar in the mix.

Whipped Cream

• Dairy Whipped Cream: For a dairy-free or vegan version, coconut whipped cream is a fantastic substitute, offering a similar texture and a delightful taste.
• Store-Bought vs. Homemade: If the recipe requires homemade whipped cream and you’re short on time or ingredients, a high-quality store-bought version can suffice, though it may slightly alter the taste and texture.

Final Thoughts

Creating the perfect pairing for your Dunkalatte is about balancing flavors, textures, and temperatures to enhance the coffee’s profile. Experiment and trust your palate, letting the season and the occasion guide your choices for a truly enjoyable coffee experience.

More Latte Recipes:

• Dutch Bros Cookie Butter Latte Homemade Recipe
• Copycat Starbucks Lavender Matcha Latte Recipe