Dunkin’s Signature Pumpkin Spice Latte: Nutrition, Taste, and What to Know
This fall favorite tastes like dessert in a cup, balancing sweet and creamy coffee notes.
Pumpkin spice season seems to start earlier each year, and for many coffee lovers, Dunkin’s Signature Pumpkin Spice Latte has become a highly anticipated sign of fall. But beyond its sweet, spicy aroma and iconic status, what’s actually in this drink? Is it a treat you can enjoy guilt-free, or should you think twice? Here’s everything you need to know about Dunkin’s autumn staple—from its nutrition facts to flavor breakdown, health considerations, and more.
What Is Dunkin’s Signature Pumpkin Spice Latte?
The Signature Pumpkin Spice Latte is Dunkin’s seasonal take on the ubiquitous pumpkin spice coffee beverage. Available both hot and iced, it features:
- Espresso
- Steamed milk
- Pumpkin spice-flavored syrup
- A touch of vanilla
- Whipped cream topping
- Caramel drizzle and a dusting of cinnamon sugar
This unique blend is intended as a richer, more decadent take on the classic pumpkin spice latte, offering extra layers of sweetness and spice .
Signature Pumpkin Spice Latte Nutrition Facts
The nutritional profile of Dunkin’s Pumpkin Spice Latte varies depending on the size and whether you choose hot or iced. For the traditional hot latte, here’s how a typical serving breaks down:
| Size | Calories | Total Fat (g) | Saturated Fat (g) | Sodium (mg) | Carbs (g) | Total Sugars (g) | Protein (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small (Hot) | 300 | 11 | 6 | 150 | 42 | 38 | 8 |
| Medium (Hot) | 420 | 14 | 8 | 220 | 59 | 55 | 12 |
| Large (Hot) | 540 | 17 | 10 | 290 | 77 | 71 | 16 |
Key takeaways:
- Calories range from 300 to 540 per serving, depending on size.
- Total sugar is notably high, with a large hot latte containing a striking 71g of sugar—far exceeding the recommended daily limit for added sugars.
- Fat content also increases with size, mainly from whole milk and whipped cream.
- Protein content hovers between 8g and 16g, owing to the milk.
Nutrition in Iced Pumpkin Spice Lattes and Other Variants
Dunkin also offers iced versions and plant-based milk options. For example, choosing oat milk or almond milk can slightly reduce calories and fat but may not significantly alter the sugar content because pumpkin spice syrup and toppings drive much of the sweetness.
Ingredients: What’s Inside That Pumpkin Spice Cup?
The flavor profile of Dunkin’s Pumpkin Spice Signature Latte comes from a blend of components:
- Espresso coffee
- Steamed (or cold) milk
- Pumpkin spice-flavored syrup (typically contains real or artificial flavors and significant added sugars)
- Vanilla syrup for extra sweetness
- Whipped cream, caramel drizzle, and cinnamon sugar on top
This ingredient list means the drink is not only rich and creamy but also heavy on added sugars and flavorings. Those seeking a dairy-free experience should specify their choice of plant-based milk and check for topping ingredients that may contain dairy.
How Does It Taste? Reviewer Impressions
What others are reading
So, what sets the Signature Pumpkin Spice Latte apart from previous Dunkin’ pumpkin drinks or other brands’ PSLs?
- The addition of vanilla syrup ups the sweetness and depth.
- Compared to some rival drinks, Dunkin’s PSL is described as tasting slightly more “upscale”—the espresso helps balance out the pumpkin, so the spice isn’t overpowering or artificial.
- Whipped cream with cinnamon sugar on top adds a luxurious touch, and for some reviewers, the combination of melting cream and latte in the final sips is the highlight.
However, some reviewers caution that the drink can taste more like a “pumpkin-flavored milk” than a traditional coffee. The spices and creaminess dominate, so the coffee base is sometimes subtle. For those who enjoy strong coffee flavor, opting for more espresso or less milk might improve the experience.
How Is It Served?
- The Signature Pumpkin Spice Latte can be ordered hot or iced, making it a good transition drink from summer to fall.
- Both formats feature the same toppings and flavorings, but the iced version may taste lighter and less creamy than the hot version.
Health Considerations: Is Dunkin’s Pumpkin Spice Latte a Good Choice?
With its high calorie and sugar content, the Signature Pumpkin Spice Latte is more of a dessert beverage than a daily coffee. Here are some health dimensions to keep in mind:
- Sugar: The American Heart Association recommends no more than 24g added sugar/day for women and 36g for men; the large latte almost doubles this in one serving.
- Calories/Fat: Ranges from 300 (small) to 540 (large), with saturated fat between 6g and 10g per hot cup, mainly from dairy and whipped cream.
- Caffeine: The drink contains espresso, but milk and syrups reduce the perceived strength—caffeine is usually between 90mg–150mg per cup, depending on size and shots.
- Protein: Milk-based, so each cup has 8–16g protein.
If you’re following a low-sugar or low-calorie diet, planning to avoid dairy, or managing blood glucose, you may want to enjoy this beverage as an occasional treat rather than a daily drink.
Making A Lighter Pumpkin Spice Latte at Dunkin’
- Skip the whipped cream and caramel drizzle to shave off extra sugar and fat.
- Ask for fewer pumps of syrup or try sugar-free vanilla (if available).
- Choose skim, almond, or oat milk for fewer calories and less saturated fat.
- Order a small instead of a large to keep overall totals manageable.
Pumpkin Spice at Dunkin’ vs. Other Brands
How does Dunkin’s take compare to other popular pumpkin-flavored lattes?
| Brand | Calories | Total Sugar (g) | Total Fat (g) | Approx. Caffeine (mg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dunkin’ PSL | 420 | 55 | 14 | 110 |
| Starbucks PSL | 380 | 50 | 14 | 150 |
| Peet’s Pumpkin Latte | 310 | 43 | 11 | 140 |
Note: Totals may differ slightly based on milk and regional options.
- Dunkin’s PSL is one of the higher-calorie, higher-sugar options among major chains, primarily due to its extra sweetened syrups and toppings.
- All three feature similar amounts of fat if made with whole milk.
- Caffeine varies more by espresso shot size and method than brand.
Allergen and Dietary Considerations
Before ordering, keep in mind:
- Dairy allergy: Standard drink uses milk and cream, but almond or oat milk are alternatives for plant-based needs.
- Vegan diets: The default whipped cream and possibly caramel drizzle may not be fully vegan.
- Gluten: The drink itself is gluten-free, but always check for cross-contamination at your local store.
- Nut allergies: Specify regular milk and avoid almond milk or confirm with your barista.
How to Customize Your Dunkin’ Pumpkin Spice Latte
Want to tweak your treat? Try these tips:
- “Less sweet:” Order fewer pumps of syrup.
- “Extra espresso:” Get an extra shot for more coffee flavor and caffeine.
- “No topping:” Ask for no whipped cream or caramel to cut down on sugar/fat.
- “Alt. milk:” Substitute almond, oat, or skim milk for regular whole milk.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What sizes does the Dunkin’ Pumpkin Spice Latte come in?
A: The drink is available in small, medium, and large sizes, both hot and iced.
Q: Is there real pumpkin in Dunkin’s PSL?
A: The “pumpkin spice” comes mostly from a flavored syrup, which includes spices and flavorings (not always real pumpkin puree).
Q: How much caffeine is in a Dunkin’ Pumpkin Spice Latte?
A: It typically contains around 90–150mg per serving, varying by size and the number of espresso shots.
Q: Does Dunkin’ offer a dairy-free Pumpkin Spice Latte?
A: Yes, you can request almond or oat milk, but toppings may still contain dairy—let your barista know your dietary needs.
Q: How does this compare to Starbucks’ Pumpkin Spice Latte?
A: Both are sweet, creamy drinks with similar flavors. Starbucks uses pumpkin puree in its syrup, while Dunkin’ relies more on flavorings; both are high in calories and sugar, so moderation is key.
Final Thoughts: Should You Try Dunkin’s Signature Pumpkin Spice Latte?
Dunkin’s Signature Pumpkin Spice Latte is a decadent seasonal treat—memorable for its creamy texture, pronounced vanilla and pumpkin spice aroma, and dessert-like sweetness. For fans of rich coffee drinks and fall flavors, it’s a must-try at least once a season. Just be mindful of its sugar and calorie count and consider making small modifications for a lighter option. As with all specialty lattes, balance is everything: enjoy in moderation and savor the best that pumpkin spice season has to offer!
References
- https://www.dunkindonuts.com/en/menu/espresso-and-coffee/product-signature-latte-id1200701
- https://www.dunkindonuts.com/content/dam/dd/pdf/nutrition.pdf
- https://www.theimpulsivebuy.com/wordpress/2020/08/25/dunkin-signature-pumpkin-spice-latte-review/
- https://www.mynetdiary.com/food/calories-in-pumpkin-spice-signature-iced-latte-by-dunkin-donuts-medium-47066525-0.html
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