As the holiday season begins, you can be sure to see the bright pink, green, and red signs outside of your local Dunkin’ advertising the sweet holiday treats. These holiday treats include peppermint mocha, toasted gingerbread lattes, and the winter white chocolate swirl latte. You can definitely enjoy these treats throughout the season but be mindful of how often and how much you are having!
Before you place your order, consider what drink you would like and the following ways to make these three common holiday treats a little healthier!
Peppermint Mocha
You know it is officially the holiday season when the peppermint mocha drinks are out! This holiday drink is composed of espresso and steamed milk and sweetened with syrups of both chocolate and peppermint. It is also usually served with whipped cream on top and some dark chocolate curls. Be mindful when ordering this drink though as a 16-ounce cup has 350 calories, 9 grams of fat, and a whopping 53 grams of sugar! In order to enjoy this delicious treat in a healthier way, ask to swap out the milk for almond, coconut, or another non-dairy milk option and ask for just one pump of each of the two syrups. You can ask for your latte to be topped with some extra foam to still get that creamy topping without the added calories of whipped cream!
Toasted Gingerbread Signature Latte
You may be surprised to find out that a 16-ounce size of the gingerbread signature latte has 410 calories, 14 grams of fat, and 56 grams of sugar, but don’t worry! You can still enjoy this drink with a few moderations that will make it a little healthier and easier on your stomach. The original gingerbread signature latte combines espresso with steamed milk and a sweet and spicy gingerbread syrup. This drink is usually topped with whipped cream and ground nutmeg. For a healthier option, ask to swap the original milk for an almond or coconut milk, request for only 1 or 2 pumps of syrup, and ask to hold the whipped cream topping. You can ask for the ground nutmeg to be added as well as some cinnamon and vanilla to spice up your drink!
Winter White Chocolate Swirl Latte
A third popular and delicious holiday drink combines creamy white chocolate and subtle vanilla flavors. A 16-ounce size of this drink has 340 calories, 9 grams of fat, and 51 grams of sugar with plenty of options to decrease the calories and sugar in your drink! If you’re looking for some extra pep in your day– ask for an extra shot of espresso as this will naturally decrease the amount of milk you are drinking. This drink is usually served with whipped cream topping so as a healthier option, ask to swap the milk for a non-dairy option and hold the whipped cream topping.
When choosing these holiday drinks, should you stick to their original recipes with a cheat meal, consider asking for a small size or sharing with a friend. Doing this will allow you to enjoy the same great taste with a lot fewer calories and less sugar.
Did you know? You can visit the Dunkin’ website and create and customize any drink you would like in order to see the nutrition facts and macronutrient breakdown. Check this out here!
