When done right, iced coffee is one of the most thirst-quenching, energizing and fun drinks on the planet. On the other hand, poorly made iced coffees dilute fast and lose all their intensity.
Dunkin’ Donuts, who knows a thing or two about coffee, knew this, so when they launched their iced signature drinks, they made sure they didn’t lose their vibrancy. That’s why their iced signature latte is one of the most popular on the market!
Dunkin’ Donuts was founded in the 1950s by a Massachusetts entrepreneur called William Rosenberg. In the founder’s words, his goal always was to ‘make and serve the freshest, most delicious coffee and donuts quickly and courteously in modern, well-merchandised stores.’ With over 12,000 stores worldwide, in 45 countries, I guess Mr. Rosenberg succeeded.
It’s the small details that matter the most. That’s why when I tried the chain’s iced signature latte, I knew I was in the presence of something special. And you know me, I immediately started thinking about developing my version to make at home.
This one is no rocket science. Strong coffee, milk or your favorite milk substitute and ice. That’s basically all you need. There’s a little secret, though, a teaspoon of coffee creamer concentrates the milky flavors and adds thickness to the beautiful latte. And trust me, it’s a big difference.
There’s more. Coffee matters. Dunkin’s coffee is always potent but not overpowering, warm and chocolatey but never charred. That’s because most of their house blends are based on premium-quality beans, medium roasted to golden perfection. Look for City Roast or American roast for the best results; the coffee almost tastes like caramel, adding complexity to the creamy drink.
Following Mr. Rosenberg’s spirit, I’ve made my innovation too. I dry shake (no-ice) my ingredients to get a frothy texture. When poured over fresh ice, you end up with a fluffy, decadently creamy latte that’s as good, or better, than Dunkin’s version.
I’d also love to invite you to innovate. This nice latte is a blank canvas for creativity, so top it with crushed Oreo cookies or chocolate chips, salted caramel sauce or cinnamon powder. The sky’s the limit!
Brew your espresso.
In a cocktail shaker or a jar with a lid, add the coffee, milk and creamer. Shake until frothy.
Fill your glass with ice and pour the iced latte.
Top with whipped cream and flavor with anything, from crushed Oreos to caramel sauce.