Is Iced Coffee or Iced Latte Better from Dunkin' Donuts? Which One Is Stronger?
Choosing between iced coffee and iced latte at Dunkin' Donuts can be a matter of personal preference, especially when it comes to taste and caffeine content.
Iced Coffee
Ingredients: Brewed coffee served over ice.
Strength: Generally stronger in terms of coffee flavor due to using brewed coffee with a higher coffee-to-milk ratio. The serve size and specific brew can also impact its strength.
Caffeine Content: Typically contains more caffeine than an iced latte, depending on the size and the type of coffee used. Cold brew coffee, for example, has a slightly lower caffeine content but still offers a strong taste.
Iced Latte
Ingredients: Espresso mixed with milk and served over ice.
Strength: Milder coffee flavor due to the presence of milk, which can smooth out the taste. The milk also makes it a creamier and more milky drink.
Caffeine Content: Contains less caffeine than iced coffee, unless you order a larger size or add extra shots of espresso. An iced latte at a medium size will generally have fewer caffeine grams than its iced coffee counterpart.
Conclusion
The choice between iced coffee and iced latte depends on whether you prefer a stronger coffee flavor and more caffeine or a creamier and milder taste. If your main goal is caffeine, iced coffee is the better choice. A common misconception is that espresso is stronger in terms of caffeine, but longer roasting times actually reduce the caffeine content, and the pre-measured shots limit the additional caffeine you'd get.
Price and Quality: If you're going to Dunkin' for the caffeine, it's better and cheaper to opt for iced coffee. The prices are often lower than in other cafes, such as Starbucks, and the taste of the iced coffee is often more intense.
Personal Preference and Variations
People's preferences vary, and if you enjoy an iced latte, it's a good choice. However, for those who want a stronger coffee flavor, iced coffee is the clear winner. An iced latte has an espresso shot and milk, whereas iced coffee is brewed coffee with additional ingredients as preferred.
Cold Brew Option: For a stronger coffee flavor without the bitterness, consider going with their cold brew coffee, served just black or with your preferred add-ins.
A Comparison Summary
An iced latte is often stronger than iced coffee because it includes an espresso shot, but the overall strength can vary based on how milk is used in the latte. If you're looking for a stronger, creamier taste, the iced latte is a good choice. However, if you prioritize the robust coffee flavor and higher caffeine content, iced coffee is the way to go.
Purchase Advice
Consider your caffeine needs and taste preferences. If you're looking for a more cost-effective and potent caffeine fix, iced coffee at Dunkin' is the better option. Coffee purists and caffeine enthusiasts may prefer iced coffee for its unadulterated coffee flavor and higher caffeine content. Regardless of the choice, both offer distinct flavors to cater to different tastes.