Quick Answer
Yes, Dunkin’ does offer sugar free iced coffee options for customers looking to reduce their sugar intake. Dunkin’s iced coffee can be customized to be made without any sugar. Customers can request no liquid sugar or flavor swirls be added to their iced coffee. Dunkin’ also provides several sugar substitute options such as Splenda, Equal, Sweet’N Low, and Stevia. So those looking for a low sugar or sugar free iced coffee can customize their order at Dunkin’ to achieve this.
Exploring Dunkin’s Iced Coffee Options
Dunkin’ is one of the most popular spots to grab an iced coffee during the warmer months. Their classic iced coffee is sweetened with liquid sugar resulting in 30 grams of sugar per small sized iced coffee. For comparison, the American Heart Association recommends no more than 25 grams of added sugar per day for women and 36 grams for men. So Dunkin’s standard iced coffee accounts for a good portion of the recommended daily added sugar intake.
However, many customers enjoy the flavor the liquid sugar provides and are willing to indulge in the sweetness despite the high sugar content. But Dunkin’ understands some customers are looking to limit their sugar for dietary needs or preferences. That’s why they allow customization of their iced coffee to remove the liquid sugar entirely.
When ordering an iced coffee at Dunkin’, customers can request no liquid sugar be added. The barista will prepare the drink without liquid sugar, resulting in an unsweetened iced coffee. This reduces the sugar content significantly to 0 grams per small sized drink. The coffee flavor remains intact without any added sweetness.
For those who still want a hint of sweetness without the sugar, Dunkin’ offers a variety of sugar substitute options. The most popular options available include Splenda, Equal, Sweet’N Low, and Stevia. These provide the sweet taste without spiking blood sugar levels. Customers can ask for the sugar substitute of choice to be added to their sugar free iced coffee based on their preferences.
The availability of liquid sugar free and sugar substitute options allows Dunkin’ customers to enjoy their favorite iced coffee anyway they like it. Customers have praised Dunkin’ for their willingness to customize orders to accommodate dietary needs and preferences.
Customizing Your Sugar Free Iced Coffee Order
When ordering a sugar free iced coffee from Dunkin’, keep the following tips in mind:
– Request “no liquid sugar” added to your iced coffee. This eliminates the standard 30 grams of sugar.
– Choose your preferred sugar substitute. Popular options include Splenda, Equal, Sweet’N Low or Stevia. Specify how many packets you would like added.
– Request light cream or milk if you still want a hint of sweetness. Skim or non-fat milk will avoid extra calories from heavy cream.
– For a stronger coffee flavor, ask for an extra shot of espresso. The added coffee intensity helps balance the unsweetened drink.
– Try adding a dash of cinnamon on top for an extra layer of flavor without adding sugar.
– For a cold, frothy treat, request your sugar free iced coffee blended. This results in a refreshing iced coffee smoothie drink without sugar.
– Ask about sugar free flavored syrup options. Some locations offer flavors like hazelnut and French vanilla to add flavor without the sugar.
Comparing Nutrition Facts
To see the impact of removing liquid sugar from an iced coffee, let’s compare the nutrition facts:
Small Dunkin’ Iced Coffee with Sugar:
– Calories: 150
– Total fat: 4.5g
– Total carbs: 24g
– Sugar: 30g
Small Dunkin Cold Brew with No Sugar:
– Calories: 10
– Total fat: 0g
– Total carbs: 3g
– Sugar: 0g
As you can see, removing the liquid sugar significantly reduces the calories, carbohydrates, and sugar content of the drink. A small, unsweetened iced coffee provides less than 10 calories.
The Benefits of Sugar Free Iced Coffee
Why might someone choose a sugar free iced coffee from Dunkin? There are several health benefits to ordering your drink without liquid sugar:
– Lower sugar intake – Going sugar free eliminates the 30 grams of added sugar from a small Dunkin’ coffee. This is important for managing diabetes, weight loss, and overall nutrition.
– Fewer empty calories – Without sugar, an unsweetened iced coffee provides almost no calories, so you can enjoy the caffeinated drink guilt-free!
– Better dental health– Sugar contributes to dental erosion and cavities. Unsweetened coffee helps avoid damage to tooth enamel.
– Doesn’t affect blood sugar – For diabetics, excess sugar can spike blood glucose to unhealthy levels. Sugar free is the healthier choice.
– Avoid sugar crashes – Sugar highs are often followed by sluggish sugar crashes. Sugar free iced coffee provides energy without the rollercoaster.
– Promotes hydration – Simple, unsweetened coffee is mostly water, so it can help meet your daily fluid needs.
As you can see, there are many benefits to choosing a sugar free iced coffee from Dunkin’ for those looking to closely monitor their sugar and caloric intake.
Sugar Free vs Sugar Substitutes in Iced Coffee
We’ve looked at how to order a sugar free Dunkin’ iced coffee by omitting liquid sugar completely. But what about using sugar substitutes like Splenda or Equal instead? Let’s compare the pros and cons of each option.
Sugar Free Iced Coffee
Going completely sugar free by eliminating liquid sugar and not adding any sugar substitutes gives you an unsweetened coffee that contains:
Pros:
– 0 calories and 0 grams of sugar
– Allows you to fully taste the coffee’s flavor
– Avoids possible digestive issues from sweeteners for some
Cons:
– No sweetness provided
– Bitter coffee taste may be too strong for some
– Higher caffeine intensity without sweetness
Sugar Substitute Iced Coffee
Adding a sugar substitute like Splenda gives you a hint of sweetness without the sugar:
Pros:
– Nearly 0 calories and sugar
– Provides sweet taste many are accustomed to
– Allows you to use less creamer for sweetness
Cons:
– Small chance of digestive issues from sweeteners
– Sweetness could perpetuate sugar cravings
– Often lesser sweetness intensity than real sugar
As you can see, the choice between unsweetened and sugar substitute comes down to personal preference. Those avoiding all sweeteners will want sugar free, while those who still want a light sweetness can use sugar substitutes sparingly.
Making Your Own Sugar Free Dunkin’ Iced Coffee
While getting your sugar free iced coffee directly from Dunkin’ is convenient, you can also easily replicate it at home. Making it yourself allows you to control the ingredients and sweetness level. Here is a simple at-home recipe:
Sugar Free Dunkin-Style Iced Coffee
Ingredients:
– 3 cups cold brewed coffee or strongly brewed coffee, chilled
– 1 cup milk of choice (skim, dairy, nut, oat, etc.)
– Sugar substitute like Splenda, if desired
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Brew coffee using your preferred method. Allow to chill completely.
2. Fill a large glass with ice. Add in cold brewed coffee.
3. Add milk of choice. Stir gently.
4. Add sugar substitute, if desired. Start with 1-2 packets and adjust to taste preference.
5. Enjoy immediately!
Make it your own by experimenting with different creamers, milk alternatives, and sugar free flavorings. The beauty of making it at home is you control the sugar content.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Dunkin’ charge extra for sugar free customization?
A: No, Dunkin’ does not charge extra to make your iced coffee sugar free by omitting the liquid sugar or substituting sugar alternatives. The customization is included in the normal drink pricing.
Q: What sugar substitutes does Dunkin’ offer besides Splenda?
A: Popular sugar substitute options available at Dunkin’ include Splenda, Equal, Sweet’N Low, and Stevia packets. Availability may vary by location.
Q: Is unsweetened ice coffee still high in caffeine?
A: Yes, removing sugar does not significantly impact the caffeine content. An unsweetened small Dunkin’ iced coffee still provides roughly 297 mg of caffeine.
Q: Can you order sugar free flavors at Dunkin’?
A: Some locations offer sugar free vanilla and hazelnut flavor shots that can be added to coffee without spiking blood sugar. Availability varies.
Q: Does sugar free iced coffee go bad faster?
A: Sugar acts as a preservative, so sugar free coffee may go bad somewhat quicker. Still, it should last 3-4 days when properly stored in the fridge.
The Conclusion on Dunkin’s Sugar Free Iced Coffee
In summary, Dunkin’ allows customers to enjoy delicious iced coffee while controlling sugar content. Simply request no liquid sugar or substitute low-calorie sweeteners like Splenda. Compare nutrition info to see the impact – sugar free cuts calories, carbs, and sugar dramatically.
Those monitoring sugar intake for health reasons will appreciate the flexibility to customize. While unsweetened provides the true coffee flavor, light sweeteners can provide satisfaction for those who crave a hint of sweetness. Overall, Dunkin’ does accommodate sugar free iced coffee nicely.
So don’t hesitate to order your favorite caffeinated summer drink sugar free. With some simple customizations, you can still enjoy the refreshing coffee flavor without worrying about sugar spikes. Just be sure to give clear instructions to the barista when ordering to get your drink made just the way you like it.
