Gluten-free diets are becoming increasingly popular, and many people are looking for gluten-free options when grabbing coffee on-the-go. For those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, it’s important to know which menu items are safe to consume at popular coffee chains like Dunkin’.
Are Dunkin’ coffees gluten-free?
The good news is that most basic Dunkin’ coffee beverages are gluten-free. Dunkin’ states that all of their freshly brewed hot coffee and iced coffee options are gluten-free. This includes:
- Regular hot coffee
- Decaf hot coffee
- Dark roast hot coffee
- Original Blend Iced Coffee
- Cold Brew Iced Coffee
So if you order a simple medium coffee with cream and sugar, you don’t have to worry about any gluten exposure. Both the coffee itself and the liquid creamer and sugar contain no gluten.
What about espresso drinks?
All espresso drinks, including lattes, cappuccinos, macchiatos and americanos, are also gluten-free at Dunkin’. These are made by combining espresso with steamed milk and/or water. Since espresso, milk and water do not contain gluten, these drinks are safe as prepared in the standard way.
Some examples of gluten-free espresso drinks at Dunkin’ include:
- Latte
- Cappuccino
- Espresso
- Americano
- Macchiato
Just stick with the standard milk options like whole milk, skim milk, almond milk or soy milk, and avoid any flavored coffee syrups that could potentially contain gluten.
What about specialty coffee drinks?
This is where it gets a bit more tricky. Some specialty coffee beverages at Dunkin’ do contain ingredients with gluten. This includes:
- Flavored coffee
- Flavored lattes and cappuccinos
- Blended frozen coffees
- Signature lattes
The added flavors, dough conditioners and cookies/biscotti toppings that come with these specialty drinks may contain gluten. So plain coffee is your safest gluten-free bet.
If you want to indulge in a flavored latte, be sure to ask about the ingredients. Some flavor syrups may be gluten-free, but it varies by location. Avoid malt-based flavors, as these contain gluten.
For frozen blended coffees, ask to substitute a gluten-free cookie or brownie chunk if available. And if you want a signature latte like the Caramel Craze Latte or Turbo Hot Coffee, request it without the topped whipped cream which likely contains gluten.
Can you customize orders to be gluten-free?
Yes, you can make customizations to ensure your Dunkin’ drink is gluten-free. Here are some suggestions:
- Order a hot coffee or latte with almond milk or lactose-free milk
- Opt for sugar-free flavor syrups like caramel, vanilla or mocha
- Ask for a splash of heavy cream instead of milk for added richness
- Request whipped cream to be left off of blended or signature drinks
- Substitute avocado spread for a gluten-free bagel option
The baristas should be able to accommodate most special requests. You can also check the ingredients lists online or ask the manager about gluten-free menu options.
What about food items?
Dunkin’ Donuts does offer some gluten-free food choices beyond their standard coffee menu. Here are some of the gluten-free food options available:
- Plain hash browns
- Bacon
- Sausage
- Ham
- Plain bagels (verified gluten-free)
- Coffee cake bites (gluten-free variety)
- Gluten-Free Brownie (individually packaged)
Most locations have dedicated fryers for hash browns and french fries, avoiding cross-contamination with gluten-containing donuts. Always confirm preparation procedures with the staff.
Many Dunkin’ bakery items like donuts, muffins and sandwich breads contain gluten. So stick to naturally gluten-free choices like bacon, eggs and hash browns if you need a quick breakfast or snack.
What about cross-contamination risks?
Even though many basic Dunkin menu items are gluten-free, there is still a risk of cross-contamination with gluten for those who are highly sensitive. Here are some tips to minimize exposure:
- Request a clean, sanitized set of equipment for your order
- Order coffee or food first thing in the morning before much gluten cross-contact occurs
- Opt for sealed food items like hash browns rather than open bakery items
- Use single-use condiment packets instead of shared bins
- Consider mobile ordering for minimal contact with staff
Being upfront with staff about your needs can help prevent mix-ups with ingredients. Though unlikely, shared equipment means trace gluten exposure is possible. Use your best judgment when opting to order.
Key Takeaways
To sum it up, these are some key tips on how to safely order gluten-free coffee at Dunkin’:
- Hot coffee, iced coffee and all espresso drinks are gluten-free
- Avoid flavored coffees and specialty lattes with syrups that may contain gluten
- Customize with almond milk and sugar-free flavors
- Stick to basic gluten-free food choices like eggs, bacon and hash browns
- Inform staff about gluten allergy to prevent cross-contamination
- Mobile order or go early in the day to minimize risks
With some adjustments, those with celiac disease and gluten intolerance can enjoy tasty Dunkin’ coffee and breakfast safely. Be sure to check updated ingredient information online or with staff when opting for flavored drinks or food items.
The Bottom Line
Dunkin’ provides many excellent gluten-free choices from simple coffees to lattes to breakfast foods. By customizing your order, being aware of potential gluten sources, and minimizing cross-contamination, you can safely enjoy Dunkin’ favorites despite dietary restrictions. Know your go-to orders, communicate with staff, and don’t be afraid to ask questions to keep your coffee experience gluten-free.