Grinding coffee for a French press is probably the most important step in creating a world-beating cup of coffee that is brimming with flavor.

The French press, also known as a coffee press (or cafetiere if you’re in the UK), is a beloved brewing method for its simplicity and ability to produce a full-bodied coffee.

Unlike other brewing methods that use finer ground coffee, the French press requires a coarser grind of coffee beans due to the mesh filter system.

The larger grind size ensures an optimal extraction rate while reducing the chances of fine coffee particles slipping through the mesh and causing sediment in your cup.

A quality burr grinder with a coarse setting helps achieve the right grind size, adding to the body and flavor of the coffee.

The years of trial and error when brewing French press have guided me to appreciate the importance of the coffee-to-water ratio, the freshness of the coffee beans, and the quest to find the perfect cup of coffee.

So let’s dive into some of the importance of grinding coffee for a French Press.

French Press 101 and the Best Coffee

In my experience with brewing methods, the French press is unique in its simplicity and the rich, full-bodied coffee it produces. Paying attention to the grind size of your coffee beans is crucial to mastering this technique.

What Is a French Press and How It Works

The French press consists of a cylindrical glass or stainless steel container paired with a metal or plastic plunger and a built-in (usually mesh-like) filter screen and is a beloved tool for making coffee. To brew coffee, I add coarse grounds into the press, pour hot water over them, stir briefly, and then let them steep for about four minutes before pressing down the plunger. This process separates the grounds from the liquid, leaving me with a delicious cup of French press coffee.

The Importance of Grind Size in French Press Coffee

The grind size is pivotal for a French press because it directly influences extraction. Coarser grinds are the ideal grind size for a French press as they provide the right balance of flavor extraction without passing through the filter and making the coffee gritty. A fine grind risks over-extraction and bitterness, while a grind that’s too coarse might leave you with an underwhelming, weak cup and a sour taste.

The Kind of Coffee That’s Ideal for a French Press

I prefer a darker roast for my French press because it delivers a strong, bold flavor that’s well-suited to this extraction method. Although I might add that I would always opt for specialty coffee from your local coffee roaster.

Grinding Coffee for a French Press

When making French press coffee, the grind size and quality are as important as the coffee beans I’d select. Achieving the right coarseness is crucial for the ideal extraction and flavor.

Explanation of Why You Need To Grind Coffee Beans Specifically for a French Press

When brewing with a French press, the coffee grounds steep directly in hot water, and the liquid is separated from the grounds by a metal mesh filter.

If the grind is too fine, I’ll find coffee fines, small particles, slipping through the filter and into my cup, making the coffee muddy and possibly too bitter. A coarse grind, on the other hand, ensures that the coffee is evenly extracted and the mesh can do its job properly, allowing me to enjoy a clear, full-flavored brew without the grit.

How To Grind Coffee Beans for a French Press and Set a Coffee Grinder

Before grinding the beans for my French press, I ensure my coffee grinder is clean and set to the correct coarseness level. Here’s a quick step-by-step guide:

1. Selecting the Grinder: Always use a burr grinder because it provides a more consistent grind compared to a blade grinder. Burr grinders allow for precise adjustments and result in fewer fines. Additionally, they don’t blend the coffee like a blade.
2. Adjusting the Grind Setting: Essentially, the grounds should resemble sea salt in texture.
3. Grinding the Beans: Place the coffee beans in the grinder, set the desired level of coarseness, and grind. The goal is a uniform grind size that is roughly the same throughout.
4. Measuring the Coffee: A general guideline is to use a 1:12 coffee-to-water ratio. So for every 1 gram of coffee, I use about 12 grams of water.

It is worth investing in a good manual grinder or a high-quality electric burr grinder to achieve the perfect coarse grind. By keeping these points in mind, I can consistently produce delicious French press coffee at home.

The Ideal Grind Size for a French Press

The key to making outstanding French press coffee lies in using a coarse grind size that resembles sea salt (but also not the coarsest on some grinders which may be a percolator grind). This allows for optimal extraction without the risk of over-extraction or under-extraction, creating a rich and full-bodied brew.

When preparing French press coffee, the grind size should not be fine but rather range between medium-coarse to coarse. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Fine: Likely to slip through the press filter, leading to bitter coffee.
• Medium Grind: Can sometimes work, but often leads to inconsistent extraction.
• Medium-Coarse: Generally considered acceptable, though it can still produce some silt.
• Coarse: Ideal size, creating optimal resistance for the plunger and limiting sediment.

How to Determine the Dose of Coffee To Grind for a French Press

In my experience, nailing the right amount of coffee to grind for a French Press is essential for a perfect brew. I’ll be walking you through this straightforward process, emphasizing precise measurements for different capacities to address every coffee lover’s needs.

Guidelines for How Much Coffee To Grind for a French Press

To start, I always stick to the recommended coffee-to-water ratio of 1:12 to 1:16, which translates to about 1 gram of coffee for every 12 to 16 grams of water. Let’s break down what this looks like for different French press sizes:

• 8 Cup French Press: For this common size, which corresponds to 34 oz, I find that using 60-70 grams of coarse coffee grounds achieves a bold and rich flavor.
• 16 Oz French Press: Half the size of the 8-cup, so I use around 30-35 grams of coffee.
• 32 Oz French Press: This one’s double the size of the 16 oz, necessitating 65-70 grams of coffee to maintain the balance.
• 1 Cup French Press: Typically, a single cup is 4 oz, so I’d opt for approximately 8-9 grams of coffee.

In each case, ensure the grind size is coarse, resembling sea salt, to prevent over-extraction and bitterness. The Baratza Encore is my go-to grinder, set around 28 to 32 for the perfect coarse coffee grounds.

As for brew time, I let my grounds steep for about 4 minutes, which I find to be the sweet spot for full flavor extraction without bitterness. Maintaining a water temperature of about 195°F to 205°F is also crucial because too hot water can cause over-extraction, while too cool may under-extract, leading to a weaker brew.

Remember, all these suggestions may vary slightly per your taste preference, but they offer a solid foundation for your French press coffee adventures.

The Best Coffee Beans for Your French Press

When I think about making the perfect cup of coffee in a French Press, the choice of coffee beans is paramount. Not only does it influence the flavor and oils that are extracted during the brewing process, but it also affects the bloom and overall freshness of the coffee.

In my experience, dark roast coffee beans are usually the most suitable for a French Press. The reason is quite simple: a French Press does a great job at allowing the rich, bold flavors and oils of dark roasted beans to shine through. The natural oils released during the brew contribute to a full-bodied and complex cup of coffee.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the types of beans I find work best:

• Single-origin beans: These offer unique characteristics from their specific region which can make your morning cup a true adventure in taste.
• Blend of beans: A blend can balance different flavors and ensure a rich, harmonious cup.

When selecting coffee beans for your French Press, freshness and specialty are key to achieving that perfect cup.

I always order coffee online or pick up a bag from a nearby coffee roaster and grind the coffee beans right before brewing, as this will also maximize the bloom while preserving the coveted flavors and aromas.

Whole Beans or Ground Coffee in a French Press?

Now, I can’t emphasize this enough: grinding your own whole-bean coffee just before brewing makes a world of difference! It allows me to control the grind size, which is crucial for a French Press. Aim for a coarse grind to prevent over-extraction and to ensure the final cup isn’t filled with sediment, which isn’t pleasant.

• Whole bean coffee: Buy it fresh and grind just before brewing.
• Pre-ground coffee: If it’s your only option, make sure it’s a coarse grind meant for French Press and as fresh as possible.

Brewing with a French Press using ground coffee that’s too fine can result in a bitter cup, as fine grounds extract faster and can over-extract if they stay in contact with water too long. So if you’re purchasing pre-ground coffee, make sure the label specifies it’s suitable for French Press, or you might end up with a subpar experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the Ideal Coffee Grind Size for a Tasty French Press Brew?

For the best flavor, coarse grind is the gold standard for French press. It allows for optimal extraction without slipping through the mesh filter.

Can You Use Pre-Ground Coffee You’d Find at the Store for Your French Press, or Should It Be Freshly Ground?

While pre-ground coffee is convenient, it’s often too fine for a French press. Freshly ground beans to a coarse texture make a notable difference in taste and prevent grounds in your cup.

How Do You Determine the Right Amount of Coffee To Use for Each Cup Made With a French Press?

The right amount of coffee depends on your taste preference, but a general guide is about one tablespoon of coffee for every four ounces of water or a 1:12 ratio.

Is There a Specific Coffee-To-Water Ratio That Should Be Used for Brewing With a French Press?

Yes, a commonly recommended ratio is between 1:12 and 1:16, which means 1 part coffee to every 12-16 parts water. Find what works best for you—some prefer 60-70 grams of coffee per liter of water.

Will the Coffee Be Negatively Affected if the Brew Time in the French Press Is Too Long or Too Short?

Definitely. Too long, and your coffee can become bitter. Too short, and you may find it weak. Aim for about four minutes of brew time for a balanced cup.

Does the Water Temperature Affect the Quality of French Press Coffee and if So, What’s the Optimal Temperature?

Water temperature is key! Too hot, and you’ll risk bitterness. Aim for water just off the boil, around 195 to 205 degrees Fahrenheit, to extract the perfect flavor.

Happy Caffeinating!

Starbucks Nutrition Calculator

Welcome to the Starbucks Nutrition Calculator, the only resource you’ll ever need for calculating the calories or macros of your favorite Starbucks drinks. Customize your drink and see the nutritional information update in real-time, and see below the calculator for FAQs and more helpful content.

November 2023 Update: Winter menu & new cold foam flavors added

Hot

Cold

Frozen

Drink Name:

Short

Tall

Grande

Venti

Trenta

Flavor Syrup: None Apple Brown Sugar Syrup Brown Sugar Syrup Caramel Brulee Sauce Caramel Syrup Chestnut Praline Syrup Chai Concentrate Cinnamon Caramel Syrup Cinnamon Dolce Syrup Classic Syrup Creme Frappuccino Base Dark Caramel Sauce Frappuccino Roast Gingerbread Syrup Hazelnut Syrup Honey Blend Syrup Mocha Sauce Peppermint Syrup Pumpkin Sauce Sugar Cookie Syrup Sugar-Free Vanilla Syrup Toasted Vanilla Syrup Toffeenut Syrup Vanilla Syrup White Mocha Sauce - 1 pump 2 pumps 3 pumps 4 pumps 5 pumps

Add Additional Syrup

Dairy Options: None 2% Milk Almond Milk Coconut Milk Half & Half (Cream) Heavy Cream Nonfat Skim milk Oat Milk Soy Milk Vanilla Sweet Cream Whole Milk

Sweetener: None Honey Blend Honey Packet Liquid Cane Sugar Splenda Stevia in the Raw Sugar in the Raw Sugar Packet

Add-ins

Whipped Cream Standard Amount Light Extra

Cold Foam Sweet Cream Cold Foam Sweet Cream Cold Foam With Sugar-Free Vanilla Caramel Brulee Cream Cold Foam Chestnut Praline Cream Cold Foam Cinnamon Cream Cold Foam Chocolate Cream Cold Foam Matcha Cream Cold Foam Peppermint Chocolate Cream Cold Foam Pumpkin Cream Cold Foam Salted Caramel Cream Cold Foam Sugar Cookie Cream Cold Foam Standard Amount Light Extra

Drizzle Mocha Drizzle Caramel Drizzle

Vanilla Bean Powder

Refreshers Base Mango Dragonfruit Pineapple Passionfruit Strawberry Acai

Fruit Add-ins Dragonfruit Inclusion Strawberries Freeze Dried Pineapples

Juice Peach Juice Blend Apple Juice Lemonade

Matcha Powder

Frappuccino Chips

Cookie Crumble

Caramel Crunch

Cinnamon Dolce

Espresso Shots:

CALCULATING

Nutrition Facts:

Calories:

Fat: g

Carbs: g (g Sugar)

Protein: g

Caffeine: mg

Your Personalized Guide to Starbucks Nutrition

For coffee aficionados on a health-conscious journey, we’ve developed a Starbucks Nutrition Calculator tailored to help you align your favorite Starbucks beverages with your dietary goals. This tool is meticulously modeled using data from the [Starbucks nutrition guide], ensuring that you have access to up-to-date and accurate nutritional information.

The Power of Personalization

Starbucks is renowned for its customizable beverage options, giving patrons the freedom to tailor their drinks to exact specifications. Our nutrition calculator captures this spirit of choice, allowing you to experiment with various combinations and observe the nutritional impact in real time. Whether you’re adjusting the syrup sweetness or swapping out milk options, our tool dynamically updates to reflect your creation’s calorie, fat, and sodium content, among other nutritional facts.

Choosing Your Milk

Milk selection can significantly affect the nutritional profile of your Starbucks beverage. Choices range from 2% milk to nonfat, whole milk, organic soymilk, and even Lactaid® in select locations. Our calculator helps you see how these choices can decrease or increase calories and change the amount of saturated fat, making it easier to stay within daily recommended limits.

Sweetening with Syrup

The variety of syrup flavors offered by Starbucks can transform any coffee into a delightful experience. With options including classic, sugar-free, and seasonal syrups, our calculator demonstrates how the number of pumps you choose directly influences sugar and calorie intake. Opting for fewer pumps or sugar-free syrups can be a smart choice for those monitoring their sugar consumption.

Modifiers for a Perfect Cup

Beyond just milk and syrup, Starbucks also offers a selection of modifiers to further customize your drink. Our calculator takes into account options like extra shots of espresso, sugar substitutes (Equal®, SPLENDA®, Sweet’N Low®), and even the choice to go without whipped cream. Each selection is factored into the calculator, allowing you to see how these modifications can meet your nutritional preferences—for instance, adding protein with an extra shot of espresso or reducing sugar with a substitute.

Nutritional Guidelines and Transparency

Our calculator uses the standard Starbucks recipes as a baseline, reflecting nutrition information provided by the brand’s suppliers and calculated with ESHA R&D SQL® software. However, because Starbucks beverages are handcrafted, some natural variation may occur. Specifically, the nutrition information for soymilk is based on the product used in Canada, which may differ slightly from soymilk in other regions.

The calculator also aligns with Health Canada’s nutrition recommendations, making it an indispensable tool for individuals adhering to a 2,000-calorie diet. Whether you’re managing calorie intake, limiting saturated fat, or watching sodium levels, our tool will help you stay informed and in control.

Explore and Enjoy Your Favorites

By understanding the impact of your choices through our Starbucks Nutrition Calculator, you can enjoy your personalized drinks without compromising on taste or dietary needs. Try out varying combinations and discover how each element—from the type of milk to the flavor of syrup—affects the nutritional outcome of your beverage.

So go ahead, make your Starbucks order truly yours while staying nutritionally conscious. For more detailed information or to learn about specific offerings, consider visiting the official [Starbucks nutrition guide](https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/2019/01/nutrition-1.pdf). Enjoy the freedom to indulge in your coffee ritual, your way, with the added confidence of making healthier choices.

Finding vegan options at restaurants and coffeehouses isn’t always easy. Unfortunately, some establishments don’t have any products made sans animal-based products, despite the growing number of vegans in the United States.

The Dutch Bros drive-through coffee chain, established in 1992, isn’t one of the U.S. food and drink vendors to exclude vegans. The Oregon-born business offers vegan-friendly flavors, milk alternatives, and beverages. We’ll introduce you to some of them below.

Roasty Roundup: Dutch Bros. Vegan Drinks to Try

Just because you’re looking for something vegan doesn’t mean you’re limited to plain coffee. Dutch Bros has an impressive lineup of delicious drinks that are vegan-friendly, and we’re sharing 11 of them.

Oat Milk Kicker

We’re starting our list strong with a DB classic, The Kicker! Ordered with no substitutions, the combination of espressos, half-and-half, and Irish cream syrup isn’t vegan. However, if you ask the “broista” to ditch the half-and-half and use creamy oat milk instead, you’ll end up with something vegan-friendly.

Nutty Irishman Cold Brew

Next on our list of Dutch Bros vegan options is the Nutty Irishman Cold Brew. It’s an excellent choice for people who prefer their caffeinated pick-me-ups to have hazelnut flavors.

The next time you visit the coffee chain, ask for a cold brew with non-dairy milk, hazelnut syrup, and Irish cream syrup added to it. No Soft Top topping, though. DB doesn’t make that with non-dairy or plant-based milk, so it isn’t vegan.

Cold Brew/Nitro Cold Brew Coffee

A cup of regular or nitro cold brew from Dutch Bros Coffee falls into the vegan category because no dairy or animal ingredients are involved when you sip it black. If you’re someone who doesn’t love drinking black coffee, you can add flavored syrup and a splash of non-dairy creaminess like coconut milk, oat milk, or almond milk.

Americano

Made by blending water with a few espresso shots, the classic Americano is always vegan when enjoyed sans add-ins.

If you want yours to have a creamier texture or additional flavor, you can ask the “broista” to make yours with your non-dairy milk of choice or one of Dutch Bros Coffee’s many coffee syrup options.

Smoothie

Enjoy the vegan version of any DB smoothie by simply requesting that your drink be made without a whipped cream topping. Four smoothies live on the franchise’s permanent drink menu: Peach, Strawberry, Green Apple, and Mango.

911 with Almond Milk

The 911 is a Dutch Bros classic and the drink of choice for the busiest customers who need to keep their energy levels high at all times.

The standard recipe calls for six shots of espresso — Yep, you read that right: SIX shots. It’s the most caffeinated of all Dutch Bros drinks. — plus Irish cream syrup and half-and-half. However, you can enjoy a vegan-friendly version by substituting almond milk for the half-and-half.

Double Torture

Dutch Bros workers make the Double Torture by combining a generous helping of espresso with chocolate milk, vanilla syrup, and a whipped cream topping.

However, you can make this classic menu item vegan by switching your choice of milk — go for almond or oat milk — and asking for no whipped topping. Give your vegan version of the beverage its chocolatey flavor by adding chocolate sauce to the mix. There you have it: a Double Torture made of vegan ingredients.

Iced Soy Annihilator

The Iced Soy Annihilator is a perfect vegan-friendly option for anyone hoping to pick up a sweet treat on their morning (or afternoon) coffee run. Made of rich espresso, chocolate macadamia nut syrup, and soy milk, this version of the Annihilator is a popular choice among DB’s vegan customers.

Cinnamon Swirl Oat Milk Latte

The Cinnamon Swirl Oat Milk Latte is another sweet vegan beverage you can find at Dutch Bros. It’s a simple drink made by combining espresso with oat milk, cinnamon, and vanilla, and it’s a solid choice for anyone steering clear of animal products.

Peach Tea

Non-coffee drinkers can’t miss out on Dutch Bros Coffee’s Peach Tea. This vegan beverage is made with your choice of green or black tea and peach syrup.

If you want tea but aren’t feeling particularly peachy, you’re in luck. Every Dutch Bros tea except the Astronaut, Trixie, and Dutch Mojito are vegan friendly. The coffee franchise has plenty of tea options containing vegan-friendly syrups, so you’ll have no trouble finding something to sip on.

Dirty Chai

The Dutch Bros Dirty Chai is a popular drink among the franchise’s vegan customers. It’s probably so well-loved because of what a good flavor combination rich espresso and spicy chai tea creates. Just select a vegan milk option like oat milk when you order.

What’s Not Vegan at Dutch Bros?

Non-vegan items at Dutch Bros include:

• Dairy milks
• Dutch Chocolate blend
• Half-and-half/Soft Top (whipped half-and-half)
• Whipped cream
• Any Dutch Frost
• Caramel sauce
• White chocolate sauce and sugar-free white chocolate sauce
• Almond Roca syrup
• English toffee syrup
• Pumpkin sauce
• Eggnog
• All food items

This isn’t an exhaustive list of non-vegan DB items, as the franchise uses ingredients that contain natural flavors that may or not be derived from animals. According to VegansBaby, Dutch Bros Rebel, hazelnut, and brown sugar cinnamon syrups have cane sugar, and those may or may not be vegan.

To stay on the safe side, consult your DB “broista” as you order; they should be able to help ensure every ingredient in your cup is vegan-friendly.

Is Dutch Bros Vegan-Friendly?

While plenty of Dutch Bros Coffee’s menu items have non-vegan ingredients, several do not. Plus, you can always make substitutions and customize your drink until it meets vegan standards.

So yes, DB is a vegan-friendly establishment, as each location has plenty of dairy-free and non-animal-derived ingredients in stock.

Happy Caffeinating!

When you go to Dunkin’ Donuts for coffee, you’re most likely going for a treat. And what better way to satisfy your sweet tooth cravings than with a decadent and rich caramel-flavored drink? Some of the best beverages on Dunkin’s menu are the ones that include caramel.

So, if you’re itching for a new sweet and energizing drink to try, here are just a few that you can order from Dunkin’ Donuts, as well as some ways to craft your own yummy caramel creation.

How to Order Caramel Drinks at Dunkin’ Donuts

Before we jump into our list of caramel coffee options, let’s look at the customizations available at Dunkin’ to order a deliciously sweet caramel drink whether you prefer regular coffee, iced coffee, cold brew, americanos, lattes, macchiatos, cappuccinos, or blended beverages.

Caramel Swirl Sauce

The most essential ingredient that Dunkin’ adds to any of their caramel drinks that are already on the menu is their specialty Caramel Swirl Sauce. This isn’t exactly a syrup and is instead a creamy and sweet caramel flavor that really boosts the taste of your favorite caffeinated sip.

Caramel Drizzle

Aside from that already delicious addition, you can also ask for a caramel drizzle on top of your drink of choice, which just gives another layer of decadence to any beverage.

Caramel Drinks at Dunkin’ Donuts

Now that you know how Dunkin’ adds caramel flavor to their sweet and rich drinks, here are some options that are either already on the menu or that we highly recommend you try next time you stop by the coffee shop.

Caramel Craze Signature Latte

Starting off with the most popular pick, which is definitely why it’s listed as a Signature Latte, is the Caramel Craze. This is a deliciously sweet drink, which can be made as a hot or iced latte, that features rich espresso and your milk of choice.

In the mix, there’s also the delicious caramel swirl sauce that gives it a buttery taste and a nice decadent layer of whipped cream, caramel drizzle, and cinnamon dusting on top. This beverage is the epitome of caramel coffee flavors!

Salted Caramel Cold Foam Cold Brew

While this next one seems to be only available on the menu during certain seasons of the year, the Salted Caramel Cold Foam Cold Brew coffee simply had to be added. You can’t talk about caramel drinks without mentioning this showstopper.

In their smooth cold brew coffee, Dunkin’ adds a salted caramel flavoring to it, as well as a delicious cloud of salted caramel cold foam that has a burnt sugar topping. This makes for a creamy and delicious coffee that has a rich sweetness.

Caramel Macchiato

When it comes to caramel coffee beverages, there is one drink that’s universally known for its sweet and decadent caramel flavor. The Caramel Macchiato at Dunkin Donuts is made with a bottom layer of iced or steamed milk and a top layer of rich fresh-brewed espresso shots.

It’s finished with some yummy caramel drizzle, which really ties it all together. This beverage can be made with any type of milk and honestly, it’s perfect whether you use whole milk or a non-dairy milk alternative!

Caramel Mocha Latte

Though the Caramel Mocha Latte isn’t technically a menu item at Dunkin’ anymore, it’s super easy to still order yourself a Caramel Mocha Latte. The sweetness of the caramel flavor complements the richness of the mocha flavor to give you a very delicious and comforting coffee.

Since both the caramel swirl sauce and the mocha swirl sauce are options to add to an iced or hot latte, that’s really all you have to do. It also doesn’t hurt to add some whipped cream or caramel drizzle to the top, as long as you’re not watching how many calories you’re consuming.

Caramel Swirl Iced Coffee

As you can tell, the caramel swirl sauce is what really brings out the delicious taste of caramel in a majority of the drinks at Dunkin’. That’s why it’s a great idea to add it to your favorite beverage pick the next time you go through the Dunkin’ drive-through.

One of the many delicious ways to do this is to order an iced coffee and ask to add in the caramel swirl sauce and whatever milk type you desire. This makes for a rich and sweet cup of cold joe to give your morning a little caffeine boost.

Caramel Swirl Frozen Coffee

The decadence of the caramel swirl sauce can be really showcased when added to one of Dunkin’s frozen coffees. Just like how it sounds, Frozen Coffee is made by blending concentrated coffee, milk, ice, and sweetener together.

By adding the specialty caramel sauce, you get even more of a treat. Plus, asking for some whipped cream and caramel drizzle on top will really bring together all the sweet and decadent flavors.

Caramel Swirl Iced Cappuccino

The last caramel drink concoction worth mentioning is an Iced Cappuccino that’s got some of the caramel swirl sauce added to it. This is a frothy blend of foamed milk and shots of espresso that’s served over ice to create a delicious drink that has a bold coffee flavor.

With the addition of caramel swirl syrup, you get an indulgent coffee flavor that complements the consistency of the beverage beautifully. It’s definitely one we’d recommend!

Wrapping Up

Overall, if you’re a fan of the classic flavor of caramel, one of the best places to go for a tasty treat of a drink is Dunkin’ Donuts. With their sweet and creamy specialty caramel swirl sauce and their decadent and rich caramel drizzle, you’ll have everything you need to create a real caramel delight.

These ingredients are great when paired with any of Dunkin’s coffee options, whether you’re someone who prefers something hot or iced. So, on your next trip to Dunkin’, make sure you try one of their many delicious caramel coffee drinks.

Happy Caffeinating!

Descaling your coffee machine is not as scary or involved as you might first think. It actually only takes a few steps, can be done on a monthly or bi-monthly rotation, and requires very few products to get the job done well.

Although we hope you are washing your coffee pot and grinds holder daily to remove any excess coffee and oil, the inside of your machine needs attention in another way. Water will create a chalky substance on the inside of your brewing device that isn’t harmful to ingest, but will begin impacting the taste and efficiency of your coffee machine if left unscaled.

These scales can build up and create a crusty substance on the inside of your machine, even in the parts you can’t see. Depending on the hardness of your water, you should be descaling your coffee machine about every one to two months.

What To Use to Descale Your Coffee Machine

Of course, there is a slew of coffee-descaling products available on the market. They all claim to be the best and overcharge for what could be an easy solution. Don’t waste your money.

Most people will use distilled white vinegar. It comes in large quantities for very cheap and is highly effective. However, vinegar certainly leaves a smell (throughout the whole house!) and will often leave a lingering taste that takes several rinse cycles to get rid of.

This is unappealing to the senses and also creates more of a hassle in the process of properly descaling a coffee machine. Remembering to descale in the first place is half the battle – adding several rinse cycles on tops will only make it harder to complete the task properly each month.

The easiest, most effective, and cheapest option for effectively descaling your coffee machine is to use good old citric acid.

Using Citric Acid to Descale Your Coffee Machine

Citric acid is easy to find in most grocery or convenience stores, usually comes in large quantities that will last for a long time, is cheap, and is not harmful to the environment.

Citric acid also has no smell, doesn’t leave a taste, and is not harmful if ingested by accident (although it’s certainly not recommended by anyone, especially us here at Roasty).

Because of these components, citric acid works great for descaling your coffee machine and it only takes a few steps to do it!

How To Use Citric Acid to Descale Your Coffee Pot

You only need two things when descaling your coffee pot with citric acid – water and 2 tablespoons of citric acid. Start with a coffee pot and filter that have already been cleaned with soap and water.

Step One

Fill the water reservoir of your coffee machine to the max line.

Step Two

Pour 1-2 Tablespoons of citric acid into the water reservoir and stir in slightly. If you descale your coffee machine regularly (monthly) you can maintain your machine with just one tablespoon of citric acid.

If it is your first time descaling in a while though, we suggest using at least two tablespoons.

Step Three

Run your coffee machine on the cleaning setting or on its longest brew session.

Step Four

Empty the water from the coffee pot and discard.

Step Five

Run one cycle of just water, without the citric acid or any coffee grinds, to ensure that the machine is thoroughly rinsed through.

And that’s it! All it takes is two simple brew sessions and your machine should be back to its sparkling self!

Brands We Suggest

You can find citric acid in just about any grocery store or pharmacy. It’s a common household cleaning item and usually comes in large quantities. Here are a few brands that are a great bargain from Amazon that we recommend:

• Milliard Citric Acid
• Micro Ingredients Citric Acid
• Onuva Citric Acid
• Herbaila Citric Acid

FAQ

Can I Descale My Coffee Machine With Citric Acid?

Yes, using citric acid in the descaling process is safe and easy to do. Follow our step-by-step guide above!

Should I Descale With Vinegar or Citric Acid?

Either cleaner works great for descaling your coffee machine, but vinegar leaves a smell and is prone to leave a taste if not properly rinsed out. Citric acid is odorless and flavorless, making it far more easy to rinse out, while also taking up less product than vinegar.

What Is the Best Thing to Use to Descale My Coffee Machine?

Citric acid is the easiest and most convenient descaler to use on coffee machines.

How Much Citric Acid Do I Use for Descaling?

2 tablespoons of citric acid will thoroughly descale the entirety of your coffee machine and leave it ready to use with just one rinse! If you maintain regular descaling, you can get away with using one tablespoon of citric acid.

Happy Caffeinating!

Banana probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when asked about drink flavors, but Dutch Bros proves the fruity flavor is worth considering. The Oregon-born drive-through coffee franchise includes banana flavoring in multiple beverages, and we’re walking you through some of them below.

And who knows? After reading how DB makes them work, you might want to give banana drinks a chance.

Key Takeaways

• Banana is a star ingredient in many beverages at Dutch Bros Coffee, from coffee-based treats to energy drinks.
• Items like the Banana Split Freeze and the Banana Flapjack let banana enthusiasts enjoy the flavors of their favorite banana-based breakfast or dessert offerings in drink form.
• Dutch Bros Coffee’s commitment to variety is evident through non-coffee options, like the Bubblegum and Sweet Sunrise. They provide fruity refreshment without any java.

Roasty Roundup: Standard and Secret Menu Dutch Bros Banana Drinks

Banana Bread Breve

Banana bread is a beloved treat. It was Delish’s most searched recipe of 2020. With a reputation like that, it’s unsurprising that Dutch Bros developed a drink inspired by it!

Meet the Banana Bread Breve. The base drink here is a breve (a blend of espresso coffee and heavy cream), and the added hazelnut and banana syrups make it taste a lot like the baked good.

Irie Freeze

Frozen coffee fanatics know they can’t go wrong with one of DB’s Blended Freeze beverages. And if they’re also craving banana flavor, they can find satisfaction with an Irie Freeze. This particular version of the chilled coffee smoothie comes with splashes of coconut and banana flavor — yum!

Fire Lizard

Did you know Dutch Bros sells more than the coffee, tea, and smoothie drinks you’d typically find at a café? DB also sells Rebel Energy Drinks. One of these is the Fire Lizard.

The Fire Lizard contains the chain’s Rebel Energy Drink base, plus splashes of strawberry, banana, and orange flavors. It doesn’t just taste great; it gives you the kick in the pants you need to make it through the day.

Banana Split

Have you ever wished you could eat ice cream for breakfast? We’ve all been there, craving a banana split in the wee hours of the morning. During those times, we’re grateful for the Dutch Bros Banana Split Freeze.

Sweet vanilla, banana, and dark chocolate flavors take the blended espresso-milk mixture to the next level. Sipping one of these in the morning will make you feel like you’re enjoying your favorite dessert for breakfast without guilt.

If you’re craving something that tastes like a Banana Split but don’t want anything frozen, try a Banana Split hot cocoa instead. It’s just as delicious. Only instead of being cool and refreshing, it’s warm and cozy.

Bubblegum

It might be surprising to find DB’s Bubblegum flavor combination on a list of the franchise’s banana drinks. However, banana is a crucial part of the equation whether you order it as a shake or sparkling soda. Banana, strawberry, and vanilla flavors play nicely in every Dutch Bros Bubblegum drink. We know it sounds like an unorthodox mixture, but don’t knock it until you try it!

The Bob

It isn’t unusual to pair up banana and coconut; they’re a perfect pair. Toss dark chocolate into the mix, and things only get better. The Bob flavor combination at Dutch Bros brings this trio together, and the result is totally yummy. Try The Bob in a Blended Freeze, hot chocolate, or shake. You won’t be disappointed.

Sweet Sunrise

The Sweet Sunrise is another one of the banana-flavored Dutch Rebels you can order when you need a solid energy boost. Banana isn’t the only fruity flavor you’ll taste in this beverage. There are orange, passion fruit, and peach flavors present, too.

The Sweet Sunrise flavor combination can also go into a shake, sparkling soda, lemonade, or iced tea. So, even if you don’t need or want a kick of caffeine, you have other options for enjoying this fruity blend.

Hawaiian

Wouldn’t it be nice to jet off on a Hawaiian adventure anytime you want? Unfortunately, most of us don’t have the luxury of doing that. But we can drive over to Dutch Bros and have a Hawaiian Lemonade. No, it’s not exactly the same, but the blend of lemonade and strawberry, peach, orange, and banana flavors gives off all of the tropical vibes. Plus, you can always close your eyes and pretend you’re drinking it on a Big Island beach.

You can also order a Hawaiian in the form of a DB Rebels Energy Drink, shake, sparkling soda, or iced tea.

Banana Cream Pie

Not much beats a slice of banana cream pie. But you don’t have to bake one to experience its flavors. The Dutch Bros Banana Cream Pie flavor combo, available in hot cocoa and shake form, gives you all the goodness of the classic dessert with minimal hassle. The next time you’re at DB, ask the broista for a Banana Cream Pie drink. The banana-white chocolate flavor blend satisfies the sweet tooth for sure.

Golden Banana

If you’re a Dutch Bros regular, you’re probably no stranger to the Golden Eagle. This flavor combination, a mixture of vanilla and caramel, is one of the franchise’s most popular, and it’s commonly enjoyed as a breve.

Add a bit of banana flavor to the mix, and the Golden Eagle becomes the Golden Banana, a sweet and creamy treat perfect for anyone fond of caramelized bananas.

Banana Flapjack

The Flapjack Chai isn’t a standard menu Dutch Bros item, but it’s a bestseller at many DB locations for sure. The beverage is made by adding salted caramel, white chocolate, and vanilla flavors to a classic chai latte. The result tastes a bit like everyone’s favorite breakfast food: pancakes!

Naturally, when you add banana flavor to the mix, the Flapjack Chai becomes the Banana Flapjack, and it brings the goodness of a stack of banana pancakes to your morning energy booster. So good!

Go Bananas!

As you can see, Dutch Bros Coffee has no shortage of banana drinks for curious coffee drinkers — non-coffee lovers can get in on the fun, too! — to try. Check out one of the standard menu items or the secret menu Golden Banana and Banana Flapjack for a fun, fruity spin on your typical DB order.

Happy Caffeinating!

Watch out, Starbucks and Dunkin’. Another coffee chain is coming for your crowns. Scooter’s Coffee is one of the nation’s fastest-growing drive-through coffee franchises, on track to have 1,000 locations by the end of 2024.

So, what should you order if the newest Scooter’s Coffee location pops up near your house? We’ve got you covered with 10 suggestions below. Read on to discover what we’ve dubbed the best Scooter’s drinks.

Key Takeaways

• Founded in 1998 and boasting 776 U.S. locations, Scooter’s Coffee prides itself on serving quality drinks, providing fast service, and having friendly staff members.
• The Scooter’s menu delights a variety of coffee drinkers. Black coffee enthusiasts will love the Scooter Shooter, while java addicts who prefer sweeter, decadent drinks won’t be disappointed by a Candy Bar Latte.
• Scooter’s has plenty of drinks that don’t contain coffee, including the refreshing Mango Smoothie or mouthwatering Chai Tea Latte.

A Quick Intro to Scooter’s Coffee

The Scooter’s Coffee story begins in 1998 in Bellevue, Nebraska, when Don and Linda Eckles opened their first drive-through coffee shop. According to the franchise’s website, the pair’s keys to success were to find a great location and stay committed to high-quality drinks, speedy service, and big smiles.

Scooter’s Coffee has come a long way since the Eckleses opened the first store’s doors. Thanks to the company’s commitment to its original business principles and core values, Scooter’s has had more than two decades of success. And, as of 2023, there were 776 Scooter’s locations across the United States.

Roasty Roundup: The 10 Best Scooter’s Drinks

Some of our picks for the best Scooter’s drinks come straight from the folks at Scooter’s themselves, as they’ve written this handy ordering guide for first-timers. The rest of the following suggestions come from us. Between our and the coffee franchise’s opinions, you’ll definitely find a delicious drink or two to try on your next Scooter’s run.

Caramelicious

First up is Scooter’s signature drink, the Caramelicious. Take a wild guess at the drink’s key ingredient. Yep, that’s right — caramel sauce! There’s also steamed milk (or cold milk if you prefer your joe over ice) for creaminess, espresso for a nice caffeine kick, and a whipped cream and caramel drizzle topping for extra flair.

If you can’t get enough caramel goodness and want a frappe-style drink, try the Caramelicious Blender. It combines espresso and caramel sauce with an ice cream base, giving you a smooth, creamy cup of drinkable dessert.

Mocha

You can’t go wrong with a mocha. It’s the favorite drink of many, and for good reason. Chocolate and coffee are a match made in heaven. Countless coffee shops have the blend of rich espresso, chocolate sauce, and milk on their menus, and Scooter’s is no exception. Order it hot, iced, and super skinny iced — that means it contains sugar-free mocha and skim milk, perfect for more health-conscious coffee lovers.

Scooter Shooter

The Scooter Shooter is the Nebraska-born chain’s version of a Red Eye, and it’s the perfect drink for anyone who needs extra help powering through a particularly long day. The powerful drink combines regular drip coffee with an espresso shot, so it’s not for the faint of heart (literally…excessive caffeine is not recommended for folks with heart problems). But it’s smooth and OK every once in a while. Just be sure you don’t overdo your caffeine intake for the rest of the day.

Candy Bar Latte

Having candy for breakfast isn’t recommended, but the Candy Bar Latte is the next best thing. The folks at your local Scooter’s can make the espresso-based beverage taste like Snickers, Almond Joy, Milky Way, Heath, Mounds, Kit Kat, or Twix bar, depending on your preferences.

You’ll get a kick of caffeine and the flavors of your favorite candy bar — it is the best of both worlds. Try the latte hot or iced, or get your sugar fix with a Candy Bar Blender.

Turtle Latte

Speaking of candy, the Turtle Latte is another popular drink from Scooter’s, crafted to taste a lot like turtle candies. The espresso drink has the same chocolate and caramel flavors as the candy, courtesy of chocolate and caramel sauces. But where turtle candy uses pecans, a Scooter’s Turtle Latte has hazelnut. You’ll still get a dose of nutty goodness but with a slightly different (yet just as yummy) flavor.

Experience this sweetness hot, iced, or in creamy coffee milkshake form with a Turtle Blender.

Mango Smoothie

Scooter’s has an impressive bunch of best-selling coffee drinks, but we couldn’t exclude the chain’s beloved non-coffee beverages, like the Mango Smoothie. It’s hard to imagine a more refreshing summer drink than this. The tropical flavors in your cup will transport your mind and taste buds right to a sunny beach, even if the rest of your body is stuck at work.

Like most other Scooter’s selections, the Mango Smoothie is customizable. You can add extra protein or energy to your cup as needed.

Peanut Butter Power

The Scooter’s Peanut Butter Power is a protein-rich smoothie and a perfect drink for gym bunnies and bros trying to bulk up. Made with real peanut butter, a rich ice cream base, and sweet vanilla-flavored protein powder, the cold and creamy beverage is fun and functional.

Vertigo Smoothie

The Scooter’s Vertigo Smoothie is one of the chain’s mouthwatering drink choices designed specifically to energize. And, boy, does it energize. If you’re an energy drink junkie, skip out on your usual can of Monster or Celsius and try one of these instead. You’ll get the buzz you’re after, wrapped in smooth creaminess.

We’ve heard particularly great things about the Peach Vertigo Smoothie, but it’s available in Strawberry, Strawberry Banana, Mango, and Wild Berry, too. Pick the flavor you like best and sip away!

Chai Tea Latte

If you’re craving something other than a smoothie or decadent espresso drink, consider the Scooter’s Coffee Chai Tea Latte.

Unlike the chai you’d find at many other cafés, Scooter’s uses a green tea base. But don’t worry. All of the warming spices you expect to find in chai — cinnamon, cloves, and ginger, to name a few — are still present. Enjoy the milky tea latte as is or with a few pumps of your favorite flavored syrup.

Peach Mango Quencher

The Scooter’s Coffee Peach Mango Quencher is just what you need when you’re looking for a refreshing, pleasant drink to sip on a hot summer day. The blend of peach, mango, and green coffee extract perks you up and cools you down — a perfect combination.

While the drink’s default recipe is wonderful, it also tastes great with customizations. The folks at Scooter’s recommend spicing it up with black tea, lemonade, or coconut milk.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Drink From Scooter’s?

Unfortunately, we can’t answer that for you. It’s subjective. Only your preferences — how you feel about things like coffee bean roast level, favorite flavor syrups, choice of milk, etc. — can determine what the best Scooter’s drink is for you.

However, we’ve heard the most people rave over the franchise’s Vertigo smoothies and candy-flavored lattes.

What Is Scooter’s Signature Drink?

Scooter’s signature beverages are the Caramelicious drinks, available hot, iced, or as a Blender. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, it’ll be filled with buttery caramel, creamy milk, and energizing espresso.

Which Is Cheaper, Starbucks or Scooter’s?

Compared to Starbucks, Scooter’s is the more budget-friendly option. However, the price difference isn’t too major — less than a dollar — so picking Scooter’s won’t save you a ton more in the long run.

Slide Over to Scooter’s

The beverages above are just a starting point for your Scooter’s journey. Once you’ve made your way through our list, give some of the other menu items a try!

Happy Caffeinating!

Have you ever wished your morning coffee was more magical? If you said yes, it might be time to try a Harry Potter-inspired Starbucks secret menu beverage.

We’re sharing 10 Wizarding World- and Hogwarts House-inspired drinks below for you to order when you want a break from being a muggle (that’s someone with no magical ability — a.k.a., a mere human) and want to awaken your inner wizard.

Does Starbucks Have Harry Potter Drinks?

You won’t find any Harry Potter drinks on the Starbucks Coffee official menu. However, some creative customers dreamed up some delicious drink recipes inspired by the magical franchise for the Starbucks secret menu*.

*Note: the secret menu is an unofficial collection of customer-created drinks. You won’t find a list of these drink customizations written down at your local Starbucks; instead, they spread through word of mouth and social media platforms like TikTok.

Roasty Roundup: Starbucks Harry Potter Drinks

The secret menu drinks below contain a wide range of ingredients and flavors. Some are coffee-free, made with juice or créme Frappuccino base. Others have a few shots of espresso. Regardless of what you crave, you’ll find something here you’ll enjoy.

But remember, these aren’t official Starbucks beverages. So, if you ask for it by name, your barista probably won’t know what you’re talking about. Be sure to list each of your drink’s ingredients when you order so they know how to make it.

Butterbeer Latte

In the Harry Potter universe, butterbeer is everyone’s favorite wizarding beverage. And, thanks to the Butterbeer Latte, we muggles can enjoy it, too.

Order this bewitching beverage by asking for a steamer (or a regular latte if you want your serving of butterbeer to come with a side of caffeine), caramel syrup, and toffee nut syrup. Top it off with a layer of whipped cream and caramel drizzle, and you’ll feel like you’re walking the streets of Hogsmeade with every sip.

Butterbeer Frappuccino

Get your butterbeer fix in blended drink form with the Starbucks Butterbeer Frappuccino. Like the Butterbeer Latte, it contains a few pumps of toffee nut and caramel syrups. But rather than adding these ingredients to a latte or steamer, have the barista make the Butterbeer Frappuccino with a Vanilla Bean Crème Frappuccino base.

Polyjuice Potion Frappuccino

Unlike the magical potion it got its name from, the Polyjuice Potion Frappuccino is quite a tasty drink.

Its yummy taste is courtesy of its ingredients: a Strawberry Créme Frappuccino base, two espresso shots, vanilla syrup, white mocha sauce, and matcha powder. It’s topped with whipped cream, white mocha, and matcha powder, making it even more delicious.

Ron Weasley Latte

The next Harry Potter-themed drink is the Ron Weasley Latte, a caffeinated beverage whose hue matches that of Ron Weasley’s bright hair.

Order this Starbucks secret menu item by asking for an iced pumpkin spice latte with brown sugar syrup and chai. Instead of whipped cream, have the barista top the drink with a few sprinkles of cinnamon dolce topping.

Gryffindor Frappuccino

Hogwarts Houses inspired the next few drinks on this list. We’re starting strong with the most popular of the four: Gryffindor, the home of the iconic franchise’s titular character, Harry Potter.

The recipe — a Vanilla Bean Crème Frappuccino with ginger turmeric powder, strawberry inclusions, ginger pineapple syrup, and strawberry puree — is a little outside of the box. But that’s why it perfectly represents Gryffindor. You’ve got to be brave to try an unusual Starbucks order, and bravery is characteristic of this house’s members.

Ravenclaw Frappuccino

The Ravenclaw Frappuccino is a secret menu beverage made for all the wise and witty intellectuals out there. However, no one will bar you from ordering it if you don’t have Ravenclaw characteristics.

Ravenclaw or not, you can get the drink by asking for a Vanilla Bean Crème Frappuccino with coconut milk, raspberry syrup, and berry inclusions. Have the barista top it with whipped cream and vanilla bean powder, and that’s it!

Hufflepuff Frappuccino

The creamy Hufflepuff Frappuccino has the same yellow hue as the Hogwarts House for which it is named. That’s courtesy of the scoop of ginger turmeric powder it contains. The drink’s other ingredients are a creme-based Frappuccino — those have no coffee or caffeine, so they’re safe for kids to slurp down! — java chips, and ginger pineapple syrup.

Mixing those flavors sounds…interesting. But plenty of Harry Potter-loving Starbucks customers have tried and enjoyed the secret menu treat. So, maybe the inventor of the Hufflepuff Frappuccino was onto something.

Slytherin Frappuccino

Where are the Slytherin Roasty readers? This drink is for you. Proudly rep your house by ordering a Green Tea Frappuccino made with peppermint syrup instead of the drink’s typical sweetener. Ask the barista to blend java chips into the cup, add mocha drizzle to the top and bottom of the cup, and top the Frappuccino with whipped cream, matcha powder, and cookie crumbles.

Sorting Hat Frappuccino

Unlike its namesake, the Sorting Hat Frappuccino can’t tell you which Hogwarts house you belong in. But it’s super yummy. We know — tasting good isn’t as cool as being magical. However, it’s still a fact worth mentioning.

Start by ordering a Mocha Cookie Crumble Frappuccino with vanilla bean powder and brown sugar syrup. Then, ask the barista to crown the whipped cream topping with extra mocha drizzle. And that’s it — you’ve got a Sorting Hat Frap!

Harry Potter’s Pumpkin Juice

Pumpkin juice is on the menu at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios. But you don’t have to go to Orlando to enjoy it. You only have to go as far as your local Starbucks to treat yourself. Ask for a cup of iced apple juice with a few pumps of pumpkin spice sauce blended into it, and there you have it: Harry Potter’s Pumpkin Juice!

Remember that Starbucks only has pumpkin spice sauce during the fall season. So, if you were hoping to sip one of these any other time of year, you’re out of luck unless you buy or make your sauce and whip up the drink at home.

Meet Your New Favorite Magical Drink

The next time you want to deviate from your typical Starbucks order, try one of these secret menu items. You might stumble upon your new favorite drink. At the very least, you’ll have a more magical morning than usual.

Happy Caffeinating!

Plenty rely on hot or iced joe to get them through their days, while others turn to tea and tea-based drinks to keep their energy levels high.

One popular morning tea pick is chai, a blend of black tea and delicious spices — we’re talking about ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, and more — that originated in India. While its flavor is strong and yummy enough to stand alone, most people add cold or steamed milk and make it a latte.

Chai lattes are such hot commodities that countless cafés have added them to their menus. For instance, the beloved coffee chain Dutch Bros offers multiple chai latte variations. We’ll introduce you to some of them below.

Dutch Bros Chai Drinks to Chai — Er, Try

Dutch Bros invites visitors to “Chai it your way!” Fortunately, there are multiple ways to chai it, starting with the 11 beverages listed below.

Vanilla Chai

The Vanilla Chai is probably the most popular chai beverage on the Dutch Bros menu. The drink, made with chai tea concentrate, vanilla syrup, and your choice of milk, is perfect for people who want something sweet and uncomplicated. Try it hot or iced.

Golden Eagle

The Golden Eagle isn’t like other lattes. It’s not a latte at all. Whether they contain tea or an espresso coffee shot, standard lattes have some kind of milk (whole, almond, and oat milk are popular choices here). However, the Golden Eagle is a breve, meaning it contains half and half instead of milk.

Besides half and half, the Golden Eagle — available hot or over ice — contains chai concentrate, vanilla syrup, caramel sauce, and a whipped cream and caramel drizzle topping.

White Chocolate Chai Latte

White chocolate sauce makes a lovely addition to many coffee drinks. The classic white chocolate mocha is proof. It also pairs well with a chai latte, which explains the White Chocolate Chai Latte’s permanent spot on the Dutch Bros menu. Mixing the spiced tea with sweet, chocolatey syrup or sauce creates a delectable beverage.

Have the chai, white mocha sauce, and milk combination hot or iced. Regardless of the temperature, it’s a treat if you’re at DB and craving a sweet tea latte.

Christmas Morning

If you’re looking for a cozy chai drink, give the Christmas Morning a go. Like the Golden Eagle, it’s a breve, not a classic latte — that means it has half and half, not milk. The difference between the two drinks is that where the Golden Eagle has vanilla syrup and caramel sauce, the Christmas Morning has white chocolate.

Dirty Chai

The Dirty Chai recipe is the same wherever you go: some form of chai tea*, milk, and a shot of espresso or two. The added coffee is what makes it “dirty.” But if you ask us, that description is a little unfair — nothing as good as coffee can be dirty, can it?

*At DB, this looks like liquid chai concentrate. However, other coffee houses might brew loose-leaf tea or use powdered chai instead.

White Zombie

Don’t worry. Despite being named after the undead, the Dutch Bros White Zombie Chai isn’t scary — just scary good if you’re a fan of having chocolate and vanilla flavors in your morning chai.

The folks at DB make the White Zombie by combining chai concentrate with your milk of choice and a few pumps of white chocolate and vanilla syrups. Each sip is full of chai spices and syrupy sweetness. It’s the best of both worlds!

Horchata Chai

Horchata is a comforting drink most commonly enjoyed in Latin American countries. The sweet treat, which is creamy and filled with vanilla and cinnamon spice, inspired the Dutch Bros Horchata Chai. DB’s Horchata Chai doesn’t taste exactly like its namesake, but blending chai spices with caramel, white chocolate, and cinnamon results in something similar.

You can give this creamy chai latte a fruity spin by ordering a Strawberry Horchata Chai. Like the regular Horchata Chai, the drink contains chai concentrate, white chocolate, vanilla, and caramel. But there’s a splash of strawberry syrup in this cup, too.

Sweater Weather Chai White Coffee

Your favorite chai drink is probably caffeinated. Most drinks with a chai base are. However, if you want a serving of chai with an extra kick of energy, order a Sweater Weather Chai White Coffee. The added caffeine from the coffee is just the kick in the pants you need to get through long days.

The blend of chai concentrate, white chocolate syrup, and two white coffee shots wear a crown of Soft Top (that’s Dutch Bros’s whipped topping — its soft sweetness complements hot and cold drinks well) and cinnamon sprinkles.

Caramel Pumpkin Brulee Chai

Take a break from your everyday chai when the fall rolls around and grab something seasonal, like the Caramel Pumpkin Brulee Chai. Like every other DB chai offering, this drink has liquid chai concentrate and milk. But it also features salted caramel syrup and pumpkin pie sauce. Those ingredients give it an autumnal feel and flavor.

Peach Cobbler Chai

This DB chai latte doesn’t hold a spot on the popular coffee chain’s permanent menu; it’s a secret menu chai recipe concocted by one of the franchise’s creative customers.

DB “broistas” blend chai concentrate base with your choice of milk, peach, and chocolate macadamia nut syrups, white chocolate sauce, and Soft Top. Hot or iced, it’s the perfect drink for anyone craving cobbler but doesn’t feel like baking it.

Raspberry Vanilla Chai

The Raspberry Vanilla Chai is another popular Dutch Bros Coffee secret menu item, ideal for customers who call vanilla one of their favorite flavors but want to put a fruity twist on plain old vanilla chai.

The recipe is simple: chai, milk, and pumps of vanilla and raspberry syrups. If you want your morning chai latte to have a slightly fruity taste, you’ll think it’s simply delicious.

Chai a-la-Mode

The good news: the Dutch Bros Chai a-la-Mode lets you and your taste buds enjoy sweet flavors similar to one of America’s most popular desserts, apple pie! The bad news: the chai latte with vanilla syrup, fluffy Soft Top, and apple cinnamon sprinks is seasonal. So, if it’s not the winter holiday season, your friendly neighborhood “broista” can’t make it for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Chai Does Dutch Bros Use?

Dutch Bros stores use the Oregon Chai Original Chai Tea Latte concentrate in all their chai-based beverages.

Does Dutch Bros Sell Its Chai In-Store?

While you can use whatever kind of chai you like to replicate your favorite DB chai order at home, your best bet at creating something that tastes identical is to pick up a bottle of Oregon Chai.

Oregon Chai Original Chai Concentrate, 32 Fluid Ounce (Pack of 6)

Check Price on Amazon If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Last Update: 2024-02-18

You can’t find cartons of the liquid concentrate at your local Dutch Bros, but you can order it online. You can also find it at select retailers like Walmart and Kroger.

How Much Caffeine Is In a Dutch Bros Chai?

The amount of caffeine in a chai latte from the Oregon-born franchise depends on the size you order. According to Caffeine Informer, Dutch Bros chai latte caffeine levels are as follows:

• Small (12 fluid ounces): 40.65 milligrams
• Medium (16 fluid ounces): 48.78 milligrams
• Large (20 fluid ounces): 65.04 milligrams

Note: these values come from the popular coffee shop’s standard chai latte. Customizing it — having a shot of coffee mixed in, for example — can add extra caffeine.

Check Out Chai!

If your daily coffee routine has you in a rut, take a break from your usual cup of drip or regular espresso-based beverage. Try one of the chai options above instead!

Don’t fret if you don’t live near a Dutch Bros location. Nowadays, most cafés have chai and a long list of syrups on their menus; you can create a DB dupe or come up with a chai-based concoction of your own.

Happy Caffeinating!

Have you ever heard the word “doppio” when someone ordered an espresso and wondered what they were talking about?

Roasty’s breaking down the term for you, explaining what doppio espresso means, how you can brew it at home, and how it differs from other espresso shots.

What Is a Doppio Espresso?

A doppio is just two shots of espresso combined in a single cup, which makes sense given that doppio is Italian for “double.”

You can blend the double shot of coffee with milk and make a latte, cappuccino, or macchiato, but most people enjoy the 60-milliliter cup of coffee black.

How To Make a Doppio Espresso

Pull out your trusty espresso maker and follow these steps to make a double-sized hit of espresso at home.

1. Use your coffee grinder to create finely ground espresso beans to run through your brewer. You’ll need around 16 grams of coffee for the doppio shot.
2. Then, pour the coffee into a double portafilter and tamp the grounds.
3. Put the portafilter into your machine and start the extraction process. It should take anywhere from 20 to 25 seconds, and you should end up with about 60 milliliters of espresso to enjoy.

Doppio Brewing Tips

Remember a few things as you work to perfect your doppio shot-pulling skills.

• Grind size matters. Brewing correctly sized coffee grounds is the key to successful espresso extraction. Only load finely ground coffee beans into your espresso machine. Using any other grind size puts the rich, full-bodied flavor for which espresso is known at risk.
• Water temperature is important. Water temperature matters when brewing authentic espresso. The Specialty Coffee Association states the ideal brewing temperature ranges from 195 to 205 degrees Fahrenheit. Too cold or too hot water can negatively impact the flavor of your espresso, so make sure you’re using a thermometer — one built into your coffee machine or a separate one — to keep track of water temperature while you’re brewing.
• Monitor brew time: The doppio extraction process should take about 20 to 25 seconds. Anything shorter than that leaves you with weak-tasting, watery coffee (gross). A brew time much longer than this time frame gives you bitter, over-extracted joe, and that’s just as disappointing.
• Use a classic espresso machine: Capsule coffee makers like those made by Nespresso have undoubtedly changed the brewing game by allowing java lovers to have a shot of espresso with the push of a button. And manual espresso makers, like the uber-popular AeroPress, let you create a mobile espresso bar of your own. You can use these convenient gadgets to whip up a doppio, but the result won’t be as good as a double shot of espresso extracted from a machine. Don’t sacrifice quality for convenience. Instead, elevate your espresso game by investing in the right equipment.

Where Can You Order a Doppio?

Not having a high-quality espresso machine at home doesn’t exclude you from the doppio experience. Instead of brewing it yourself, you can order delicious doppio espresso from almost any coffee shop. It’s the standard espresso shot size in many café settings outside of Italy.

How To Drink a Doppio

Despite what many diehard espresso coffee enthusiasts may tell you, there is no right or wrong way to enjoy a shot. Or, in this case, two shots. However, the consensus is that your espresso-drinking routine should flow as follows.

1. Start with a few swallows of sparkling water. The water cleanses your palate and prepares your taste buds for the flavors they’re about to experience.
2. Then, get rid of the crema. The crema, or the layer of foam that tops a freshly pulled espresso shot, is a mark of quality. However, some folks don’t think it tastes good and choose to scoop it off with a spoon.
3. Next, stir the shot. This step creates a more balanced tasting experience.
4. Finally, sip and savor. Yes, the drink is called a “shot,” but unlike other same-name beverages, you don’t need to gulp it down in one go. Drink it slowly enough to appreciate its bold flavors, but don’t take so much time that it cools down completely.

What Does a Doppio Taste Like?

Doppios can have a range of tastes depending on several factors, one being the roast level of the espresso beans used to brew them.

Take a doppio made from blonde espresso beans, for instance. It won’t have the more intense taste typically associated with spro. Instead, this drink will be mellower to the taste buds and sport slightly sweet notes. On the other hand, a dark roast doppio has a more robust and full-bodied taste than its lighter counterpart, perfect for anyone who wants an intense flavor experience.

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Coffee bean origin also helps determine how the two servings of espresso will taste. An area’s weather, climate, soil, and farming process dictate its beans’ flavors. For context, let’s compare Burundi coffee to Indonesian coffee. Burundi brews have bright, sweet flavors, while Indonesian joe has earthy, sometimes chocolatey notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Difference Between Doppio and Double Espresso?

The only difference between the doppio and double espresso is the language used to say the drink’s name (doppio is Italian for “double”). Regardless of the word you use to order it, you get the same thing: approximately 60 milliliters of espresso brewed with the standard coffee-to-water ratio — if you were curious, that’s one gram of coffee to two grams of water.

When Is the Best Time of Day To Drink a Doppio Espresso?

Here in the U.S., it’s socially acceptable to have a doppio whenever and however you want — in the morning, after dinner, with milk, black (that means no add-ins). However, Italian espresso culture does things differently. And since Italy is espresso’s birthplace, we’ll consider folks there the authority on everything espresso-related.

Italians’ daily coffee rituals include a lot of espresso — having seven to eight servings* a day isn’t unheard of. But the shots they’re drinking aren’t doppios. Instead, they take their espresso one single shot at a time.

Here’s another fun fact about sipping spro in Italy: coffee with milk is only acceptable in the morning. So, if you want to pair your doppio with steamed milk and have your joe the authentic Italian way, do so before noon.

*A Quick Note

While it’s more than OK to emulate the Italians’ brewing techniques, we don’t recommend you follow their lead in this regard — at least, not every day. The average adult’s recommended daily caffeine intake is 400 milligrams. That’s equivalent to around six single espresso shots.

And remember, some coffee lovers are more sensitive to caffeine than others. If that’s you, we suggest keeping your daily caffeine intake under the recommended dose.

Which Is Stronger: Doppio or Espresso?

The answer to this question depends on what you mean by strong coffee. If you’re talking strength according to flavor intensity, the regular espresso shot and its double-sized counterpart are pretty much the same; they use the same ratio of coffee to water.

The doppio takes the cake if you’re using caffeine content to determine strength. The average single espresso shot has about 64 milligrams of caffeine, while the doppio shot of espresso contains around 120 milligrams.

What Are Three Shots of Espresso Called?

In keeping with the spirit of the other espresso shot names — ristretto, lungo, and doppio, to name a few — the name for three espresso shots is Italian. It’s triplo, which translates to “triple.”

The triplo isn’t a very common coffee choice at most cafés, as baristas would have to adjust the espresso machine and bean grinder settings every time they pulled one. A triple shot also calls for a separate brewing basket; most coffee shops deem that an unnecessary investment.

Though unpopular, triplo espresso isn’t unheard of in the United States, as coffee servings here are usually larger than in the rest of the world. Some U.S. shops even offer the “quad,” or four espresso shots.

Is Doppio the Same as Lungo?

As far as quantity is concerned, doppio and lungo espresso shots are the same, around 60 milliliters. But that’s where their similarities end.

A doppio is two shots of espresso, while a lungo is a single espresso shot made with twice the typical amount of water. In terms of flavor, lungo espresso has a weaker flavor and more bitterness than a doppio. Some love those lungo spro characteristics, but others hate them, preferring a more concentrated coffee taste — like that of the doppio, for instance.

What Is the Difference Between Doppio and Ristretto?

A ristretto is a restricted espresso shot, meaning the person pulling the shot uses less water than normal during brewing. The result is more intense-tasting coffee.

Doppio refers to a double shot of espresso. Baristas don’t alter the coffee-to-water ratio when brewing these; they double both to make twice the quantity of coffee.

Happy Caffeinating!