Dunkin' Donuts has been making waves lately with significant changes to its menu and offerings, and coffee lovers across the country are buzzing with anticipation and excitement. Following its rebranding as simply Dunkin' back in 2019, the company has been rolling out new options, particularly catering to those with dietary restrictions and preferences. The latest development? A new line of vegan donuts launched recently... but unfortunately, only available for customers in Belgium.
Yes, you read it right! Dunkin' has been making strides toward inclusivity by introducing vegan-friendly baked goods, though U.S. locations still lack dairy-free donuts. While this 2025 update may sour some American fans, Dunkin' promises to keep exploring healthier and more diverse offerings. This effort reflects Dunkin's broader menu reforms aimed at enhancing customer satisfaction.
Interestingly enough, Dunkin' has revamped its dairy-free beverage choices, which began as early as 2008 when the chain introduced soymilk at select locations. Flash forward to 2024, and we see the company endorse oat milk as one of its staple dairy alternatives, following the nationwide success of their Planet Oat Oatmilk and Almond Breeze partnerships. Yet, some elements of their previous dairy-free menu are disappearing. Customers were saddened to learn of the recent discontinuation of coconut milk and related Coconut Refreshers at the start of 2024. This has left patrons wondering about the future of their dairy-free selections.
Another hot topic among Dunkin' fans has been the recent discontinuation of several notable menu items. One of the most talked-about casualties is the Dunkalatte, which only made its appearance on the fall menu just over a year ago. Initially greeted with enthusiasm, it was abruptly pulled due to overwhelming demand depleting available supplies. "The Dunkalatte was never intended to be permanent," said Heidi Curry, head of Dunkin's beverage culinary innovation department to Food and Wine, hinting at the possibility of its splendid return next fall.
It’s not just limited-time offerings like the Dunkalatte facing the axe; many fan-favorite drinks have vanished from the Dunkin' menu over the years. From the beloved Dunkaccino to the vibrant Raspberry Watermelon Refresher, loyal customers have mourned these losses. The Dunkaccino, celebrated for merging coffee with hot chocolate, has left fans yearning for its unique flavor, and many still express hope for its revival.
Fans are also hoping for the return of the Cookie Dough Swirl, which had enchanted customers until its disappearance from menus back in 2018. Its nostalgic flavor profile, featuring cookie dough notes mingled with rich coffee, continues to evoke fond memories among Dunkin’ enthusiasts.
For those still longing for refreshing summer sips, the Peach Passion Refresher is another lost item many wish were still offered. Released during the tail end of summer 2020, it delighted customers with its peachy taste. The fun came to an abrupt halt by 2022, leaving fans to concoct substitutes at home, using combinations of peach juice and green tea.
Dunkin' isn't merely cutting items from its menu; it’s also innovatively introducing new beverages. The franchise has come up with dairy-free spiked coffee and iced tea drinks, allowing alcohol enthusiasts to indulge responsibly. Positioned as suitable options available at various retailers, these spiked drinks come adorned with exciting flavors like caramel, mocha, and more. For those who prefer non-alcoholic offerings, it's worth noting their combination of delectable flavors still strikes the right chords!
But Dunkin's changes don't stop there. It has also made strides to cater to Thanksgiving celebrations by committing to keep most locations open on the holiday. On November 28, 2024, customers can rest easy knowing they’ll have access to their favorite lattes and pastries to fuel their holiday activities. Anyone planning to make the trek for caffeine should, of course, double-check with their local store, as hours can vary based on the franchise.
Not only has Dunkin' worked to accommodate shifts toward healthier options and flavored innovations, but they’ve embraced the popularity of new seasonal items like their recently introduced flavors meant to entice coffee lovers. Even with the inevitable comings and goings of items, the commitment to offer something fresh and tasty keeps plenty of loyal customers excited.
It's clear Dunkin' is on a transformative path—not just with their name, but with their entire menu. From unique offerings like vegan donuts overseas to the availability of alcoholic beverages, Dunkin' might not carry all our favorite items, but its spirit of innovation keeps loyal fans optimistic for the future.
For now, Dunkin' customers are encouraged to stay tuned for possible flavor comebacks and for the enticing prospect of more menu changes down the line as they balance customer cravings with innovative approaches to beverage and food offerings.