Homemade Dunkalatte Recipe

With its roots echoing the quaint, charming vibe of Rhode Island’s beloved coffee milk, the Dunkalatte isn’t just another coffee drink; it’s a nod to the simple yet profound joy that a well-crafted beverage can bring.

How to make Dunkalatte

Dunkalatte is a coffee-based beverage offered by Dunkin‘ (formerly Dunkin’ Donuts). It is essentially a latte made with Dunkin’s espresso and milk, available in different flavors like caramel and mocha. It is served either hot or iced, depending on preference.

Ingredients:

• Fresh Espresso or Strongly Brewed Coffee: To capture the essence of a true Dunkalatte, using freshly brewed espresso shots is key. If you don’t have an espresso machine, strongly brewed coffee can be a substitute, though it may lack some intensity. Aim for about 2 ounces (a standard double shot) for the espresso or ½ cup of strongly brewed coffee for robust flavor.
• Coffee-Infused Milk: Dunkin’ likely has their proprietary method for creating this, but we can approximate it at home by steeping milk with coffee grounds. You’ll need about:
  • 1 cup whole milk (for richness and creaminess)
  • 1 tablespoon of acceptable coffee grounds (or more to taste)
  • Sweetener (optional): Some may enjoy their Dunkalatte with a touch of sweetness. Consider using:
  • Sugar, to taste
  • Simple syrup
  • Maple syrup for a unique twist
  • Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top is optional but adds an indulgent touch for a luxurious finish.
  • Cinnamon or Cocoa Powder: A sprinkle for garnish can enhance the visual appeal and add an extra dimension of flavor.

Instructions:

Prepare the Coffee-Infused Milk:

1. In a saucepan, combine the milk and coffee grounds. Heat on a medium-low setting just until small bubbles form around the edges – do not boil. This should take about 4-5 minutes.
2. Once hot, remove from heat and allow the mixture to steep for about 5 minutes to intensify the flavor. The longer it steeps, the stronger the coffee flavor.
3. Strain the milk through a fine sieve or cheesecloth into a container to remove the coffee grounds. If you desire a sweeter drink, add sugar or syrup at this point while the milk is warm, stirring until dissolved.

Brew the Espresso or Strong Coffee:

1. While the milk is steeping, brew your espresso or strong coffee. If using an espresso machine, pull a double shot. Otherwise, prepare the strong coffee in your preferred method.

Froth the Coffee-Infused Milk (optional but recommended for a creamy texture):

1. If you have a milk frother, use it to froth your strained, flavored milk until it’s creamy and has a good amount of foam. If you don’t, you can heat the milk a little more and then use a whisk or a hand blender to froth it manually.

Assemble Your Dunkalatte:

1. Pour the hot espresso or strong coffee into a large mug.
2. Slowly add the frothed coffee-infused milk, holding back the foam with a spoon to let the milk mix first, then topping it with the foam.

Add the Finishing Touches:

1. If desired, crown your beverage with a dollop of whipped cream.
2. Lightly sprinkle cinnamon or cocoa powder on top for that barista-style finish.

Tips for the Perfect Homemade Dunkalatte:

• Use high-quality coffee beans to maximize the flavor.
• Adjust the coffee intensity in the milk infusion to suit your taste—add more grounds for a stronger, more robust flavor or fewer for a milder flavor.
• If you prefer plant-based milk, almond or oat milk can be good alternatives, though they may not froth as well.
• For a cold version, chill the coffee-infused milk after straining it, and use cold brew coffee instead of espresso, following the same layering technique.
• Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best taste experience.

What to serve with

Serving the right accompaniments with your Dunkalatte can turn it from a mere beverage into a complete and delightful experience, ideal for breakfast, a mid-morning snack, or an afternoon treat.

Sweet Accompaniments:

• Donuts: A classic pair with any coffee drink. Choose from glazed, chocolate, jelly-filled, or any variety you love.
• Pastries: Croissants, cinnamon rolls, Danishes, or scones are delicious and satisfying complements to a rich coffee drink.
• Cookies: Biscotti, chocolate chip cookies, or shortbread can be dipped into the Dunkalatte for an extra bit of sweetness and texture.
• Coffee Cake: A slice of moist coffee cake with a crumble topping is another great match for a coffee-based beverage.
• Muffins: Blueberry, chocolate, or bran muffins can be a hearty side that pairs well with the smooth taste of the Dunkalatte.
• Fruit Tart: A fresh fruit tart with a creamy filling can balance the rich, deep flavors of the Dunkalatte.

Savory Options:

• Quiche: A slice of quiche with a flaky crust complements the creamy Dunkalatte, particularly for a brunch setting.
• Bagels: A toasted bagel with cream cheese, lox, or your preferred toppings offers a substantial savory counterpart to the sweetness of the drink.
• Breakfast Sandwiches: Egg and cheese on an English muffin or a croissant sandwich gives a protein boost alongside your caffeinated treat.
• Cheese Plate: A selection of cheeses with crackers can be delightful for those who prefer a savory snack with their coffee.
• Fruit & Nuts: For a lighter option, serve a bowl of fresh fruit or a mix of nuts to nibble on as you enjoy your drink.

Seasonal Pairings:

• Pumpkin Bread: In the autumn, a slice of pumpkin bread with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg echoes the season.
• Christmas Cookies: During the holiday season, festive-shaped sugar cookies or gingerbread men make a merry companion.
• Summer Berries: In the warmer months, fresh strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or a mix in a fruit salad are refreshing.

Ingredients Substitutes

Creating a Dunkalatte, a rich and creamy coffee beverage loved for its deep flavors and velvety texture, might require some ingredient substitutions due to dietary restrictions, taste preferences, or availability.

Coffee

Original Requirement: Espresso or strong brewed coffee.

Substitutes:

• Instant Coffee: If an espresso machine or coffee brewer isn’t available, instant coffee can work. Opt for a high-quality instant coffee for the best taste.
• Cold Brew Concentrate: For a smoother, less acidic option, cold brew concentrate diluted with a little water can substitute for espresso.
• Decaffeinated Coffee: For those sensitive to caffeine, using decaffeinated coffee or espresso will keep the flavor without the stimulant effects.

Milk

Original Requirement: Whole milk is typically used for its richness.

Substitutes:

• Non-Dairy Milk: Almond, soy, oat, or coconut milk can be used for a vegan alternative. Barista editions froth up particularly well.
• Skim or 2% Milk: For a lower-fat version, these can lighten up your Dunkalatte without sacrificing too much creaminess.
• Half and Half or Heavy Cream: For an even creamier texture, these can be used wholly or partly in place of milk.

Sweetener

Original Requirement: Sugar or simple syrup.

Substitutes:

• Honey or Maple Syrup: Natural sweeteners that add their unique flavors while sweetening your Dunkalatte.
• Stevia or Monk Fruit Sweetener: For a low-calorie or diabetic-friendly option, these sweeteners can replace sugar in equivalent sweetness.
• Agave Nectar: Another vegan option that blends smoothly into hot or cold beverages.

Final Thoughts

By following these steps and keeping these tips in mind, you can create a satisfying, Dunkin-inspired Dunkalatte right at home. It’s a fun way to elevate your morning caffeine ritual or to impress guests with your barista skills. 

More Dunkin Recipes:

• Homemade Dunkin’ Cotton Candy Donut Recipe
• Homemade Dunkin Brownie Batter Donut Recipe
• Homemade Dunkin’ Creamer Recipe
• Homemade Dunkin’ Mochi Donut Recipe
• Copycat Dunkin’ Whoopie Pie Donut Recipe