Pumpkin Spice & Everything Nice: Recreating the Dunkin’ Fall Menu at Home
Fall is synonymous with warm spices, cozy sweaters, and, of course, the iconic flavors of Dunkin’s fall menu. But what if you could enjoy those delectable treats without leaving the comfort of your own kitchen? This guide will provide you with detailed recipes and instructions to recreate the best of Dunkin’s fall offerings, from the famous Pumpkin Spice Latte to delectable pastries. Get ready to embrace the autumn spirit with these homemade Dunkin’ inspired delights!
## The Ultimate Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL)
No fall menu is complete without the Pumpkin Spice Latte. This recipe captures the essence of Dunkin’s PSL, allowing you to customize the sweetness and spice levels to your preference.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
* 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
* 1-2 tablespoons sugar (or maple syrup, honey, or your preferred sweetener)
* 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
* 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee or 2 shots of espresso
* Whipped cream (optional)
* Extra pumpkin pie spice for garnish (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Pumpkin Spice Mixture:** In a small saucepan, combine the milk, pumpkin puree, sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract. Heat over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture is warm and the sugar is dissolved. Do not boil.
2. **Froth the Milk:** If you have a milk frother, use it to create a thick, foamy texture. Alternatively, you can use a whisk and vigorously whisk the milk mixture until it becomes frothy. You can also microwave the milk for about 30-45 seconds (be careful not to boil it), then whisk.
3. **Combine Coffee and Pumpkin Spice Mixture:** Pour the hot coffee or espresso into a mug. Add the warmed pumpkin spice milk mixture to the coffee.
4. **Top and Garnish:** Top with whipped cream, if desired, and sprinkle with a dash of pumpkin pie spice.
5. **Adjust to Taste:** Taste your PSL and adjust the sweetness or spice levels as needed. If you prefer a stronger pumpkin flavor, add a bit more pumpkin puree or pumpkin pie spice.
**Tips & Tricks:**
* **For a thicker PSL:** Use a higher ratio of pumpkin puree to milk.
* **For a richer flavor:** Use whole milk or half-and-half.
* **For a vegan PSL:** Use your favorite non-dairy milk (almond, soy, oat) and maple syrup or agave nectar as a sweetener.
* **Make it iced:** Let the coffee cool and pour over ice after mixing the other ingredients.
## Apple Cider Donut Delight
Apple cider donuts are a quintessential fall treat, and this recipe aims to replicate the deliciousness of Dunkin’s version.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
* 3/4 cup granulated sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1/2 cup apple cider
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* Vegetable oil, for frying
**For the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating:**
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Dough:** In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
2. **Cream Butter and Sugar:** In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. **Add Eggs and Flavorings:** Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the apple cider and vanilla extract.
4. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. **Chill the Dough:** Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight. This will make the dough easier to handle.
6. **Prepare for Frying:** In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer, heat about 3 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
7. **Roll and Cut the Dough:** On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/2 inch thickness. Use a donut cutter or two different sized round cutters to cut out the donuts.
8. **Fry the Donuts:** Carefully place the donuts in the hot oil, a few at a time. Fry for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove the donuts from the oil and place them on a wire rack to drain.
9. **Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating:** In a shallow bowl, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon.
10. **Coat the Donuts:** While the donuts are still warm, toss them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until evenly coated.
11. **Serve and Enjoy:** Serve the apple cider donuts warm and enjoy!
**Tips & Tricks:**
* **Donut Cutter Alternatives:** If you don’t have a donut cutter, use a biscuit cutter and a small round cookie cutter to create the donut shape.
* **Temperature Control:** Maintaining the correct oil temperature is crucial for achieving perfectly cooked donuts. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Pot:** Frying too many donuts at once will lower the oil temperature and result in greasy donuts.
* **Baking Option:** For a healthier alternative, you can bake the donuts in a donut pan at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes.
## Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins: A Fall Breakfast Staple
These muffins are moist, flavorful, and packed with pumpkin spice and a creamy cheesecake-like filling.
**Ingredients:**
**For the Muffins:**
* 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 1/2 cup vegetable oil
* 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
**For the Cream Cheese Filling:**
* 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar
* 1 large egg yolk
* 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:** In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
2. **Prepare the Muffin Batter:** In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
3. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, oil, pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. **Fill the Muffin Cups:** Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners. Fill each muffin cup about halfway with the pumpkin batter. Spoon a dollop of the cream cheese filling on top of the pumpkin batter. Then, top with the remaining pumpkin batter, filling the muffin cups about 3/4 full.
5. **Bake the Muffins:** Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. **Cool and Serve:** Let the muffins cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve and enjoy!
**Tips & Tricks:**
* **Variations:** Add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried cranberries to the muffin batter for added flavor and texture.
* **Cream Cheese Filling Consistency:** Make sure the cream cheese is softened for a smooth and creamy filling.
* **Don’t Overfill the Muffin Cups:** Overfilling the muffin cups can cause the muffins to overflow while baking.
* **Storage:** Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
## Buttery Toffee Nut Latte: A Sweet and Nutty Delight
This latte offers a delightful combination of buttery toffee and nutty flavors, perfect for a cozy fall morning.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
* 1-2 tablespoons toffee nut syrup (recipe below or store-bought)
* 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee or 2 shots of espresso
* Whipped cream (optional)
* Toffee bits for garnish (optional)
**Homemade Toffee Nut Syrup:**
* 1/2 cup water
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
* 1/4 cup chopped pecans or almonds
* 1 tablespoon butter
* 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
* Pinch of salt
**Instructions:**
**To Make the Toffee Nut Syrup (if making from scratch):**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a small saucepan, combine the water, granulated sugar, brown sugar, chopped nuts, butter, and salt.
2. **Cook and Simmer:** Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is dissolved. Then, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the syrup has thickened slightly.
3. **Remove from Heat:** Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the syrup cool completely before using.
4. **Store the Syrup:** Store the toffee nut syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
**To Make the Toffee Nut Latte:**
1. **Warm the Milk:** Heat the milk in a saucepan or microwave until warm but not boiling.
2. **Add Syrup:** Stir in the toffee nut syrup to the warmed milk.
3. **Froth the Milk:** If you have a milk frother, use it to create a thick, foamy texture. Alternatively, you can use a whisk to vigorously whisk the milk mixture until it becomes frothy.
4. **Combine Coffee and Milk Mixture:** Pour the hot coffee or espresso into a mug. Add the toffee nut milk mixture to the coffee.
5. **Top and Garnish:** Top with whipped cream, if desired, and sprinkle with toffee bits.
6. **Adjust to Taste:** Taste your latte and adjust the amount of toffee nut syrup to your preference.
**Tips & Tricks:**
* **Nut Alternatives:** Use your favorite nuts in the toffee nut syrup, such as walnuts or hazelnuts.
* **Toffee Flavor Boost:** Add a small piece of toffee candy to the syrup while simmering for a more intense toffee flavor.
* **Iced Toffee Nut Latte:** Let the coffee cool and pour over ice after mixing with the milk and syrup.
## Maple Bacon Breakfast Sandwich: A Savory and Sweet Indulgence (Recreation)
While Dunkin’ no longer officially has a maple bacon sandwich, let’s recreate a similar flavor profile for a delicious breakfast.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 English muffin, split and toasted
* 2 slices bacon
* 1 large egg
* 1 slice cheddar cheese
* 1 tablespoon maple syrup
* Optional: Everything bagel seasoning or a sprinkle of black pepper
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Bacon:** Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
2. **Cook the Egg:** Cook the egg in the same skillet. You can scramble it, fry it sunny-side up, or cook it over easy, depending on your preference.
3. **Toast the English Muffin:** Toast the English muffin until golden brown.
4. **Assemble the Sandwich:** Place the bottom half of the English muffin on a plate. Drizzle with maple syrup. Add the cheddar cheese, cooked egg, and bacon.
5. **Top it Off:** Top with the other half of the English muffin. Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning or black pepper, if desired.
6. **Serve and Enjoy:** Serve the maple bacon breakfast sandwich immediately.
**Tips & Tricks:**
* **Maple Syrup Variation:** Use a flavored maple syrup, such as bourbon maple or cinnamon maple, for an extra layer of flavor.
* **Cheese Alternatives:** Try using a different cheese, such as Gruyere or Swiss cheese, for a more sophisticated flavor.
* **Adding Greens:** Add a handful of baby spinach or arugula for a touch of freshness.
* **Vegetarian Option:** Replace the bacon with a vegetarian bacon substitute or avocado slices.
## Spiced Cranberry Coffee (Inspired by Fall Flavors)
While not a direct Dunkin’ item, this cranberry coffee captures the essence of fall with warm spices and tart cranberry flavors.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 cups brewed coffee
* 1 cup cranberry juice
* 1/4 cup orange juice
* 2 cinnamon sticks
* 4 whole cloves
* 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
* Orange slices for garnish (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a saucepan, combine the brewed coffee, cranberry juice, orange juice, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and ground ginger.
2. **Simmer:** Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. **Strain:** Remove the saucepan from the heat and strain the coffee through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the cinnamon sticks and cloves.
4. **Serve:** Pour the spiced cranberry coffee into mugs. Garnish with orange slices, if desired.
**Tips & Tricks:**
* **Sweetness Adjustment:** Add a touch of honey or maple syrup to sweeten the coffee, if desired.
* **Spice Variations:** Add a pinch of ground cardamom or allspice for a different flavor profile.
* **Make it Iced:** Let the coffee cool completely and pour over ice.
## Fall Inspired Cold Brew with Sweet Cream Cold Foam
Cold brew is a smooth, less acidic coffee perfect for fall. This recipe adds a fall-inspired twist with sweet cream cold foam.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup cold brew coffee concentrate (store-bought or homemade)
* 1 cup water
* Ice
**For the Sweet Cream Cold Foam:**
* 1/4 cup heavy cream
* 1 tablespoon milk (dairy or non-dairy)
* 1 tablespoon vanilla syrup (or maple syrup for a fall twist)
* Pinch of cinnamon
**Instructions:**
**To Make the Cold Brew:**
1. **Dilute the Concentrate:** Combine the cold brew coffee concentrate with water in a pitcher.
2. **Chill:** Refrigerate until ready to serve.
**To Make the Sweet Cream Cold Foam:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a small bowl, combine the heavy cream, milk, vanilla syrup (or maple syrup), and cinnamon.
2. **Froth:** Use a milk frother or immersion blender to froth the mixture until it becomes thick and foamy. Alternatively, you can vigorously whisk until desired consistency is reached.
**To Assemble the Drink:**
1. **Fill Glass with Ice:** Fill a glass with ice.
2. **Pour Cold Brew:** Pour the diluted cold brew over the ice.
3. **Top with Cold Foam:** Gently spoon the sweet cream cold foam on top of the cold brew.
4. **Serve:** Serve immediately and enjoy!
**Tips & Tricks:**
* **Making Cold Brew Concentrate:** For homemade concentrate, steep coarsely ground coffee beans in cold water for 12-24 hours, then strain.
* **Sweetness Level:** Adjust the amount of syrup in the cold foam to your preference.
* **Flavor Variations:** Add a dash of pumpkin spice or a few drops of caramel extract to the cold foam for different fall flavors.
## Conclusion
With these recipes, you can recreate the magic of Dunkin’s fall menu in your own kitchen. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin spice, apple cider, and maple bacon without ever leaving home. Happy fall baking and brewing!