If you’ve ever scanned the menu at Dutch Bros, you might have wondered, what is white coffee at Dutch Bros? It’s not your average cup of joe, and it’s become something of a cult favorite. This unique offering stands out for its flavor, caffeine kick, and smooth character, making it a must-try for coffee enthusiasts looking for something different.
Let’s clear up the biggest misconception right away: it’s not coffee with cream. The “white” refers to the beans themselves. White coffee is made from beans that are roasted for a much shorter time and at a lower temperature than regular coffee beans. This light roast stops before the first “crack,” a stage in roasting, which leaves the beans with a pale tan or light brown color—hence the name “white” coffee. The result is a beverage that’s nutty, sweet, and surprisingly smooth with almost no bitterness.
What Is White Coffee At Dutch Bros
Dutch Bros popularized this style, making it accessible and fun with their signature drink combinations. Their white coffee beans are typically a blend of Brazilian and Colombian beans, roasted lightly to preserve their unique profile. When you order it, you’re getting a drink that’s fundamentally different from their standard espresso, which is roasted darker. It’s a specific product with a distinct taste and texture that you can get in any drink that uses espresso shots.
Why is it so popular?
Fans swear by it for three main reasons. First, the flavor is often described as having notes of toasted nuts, vanilla, and a natural sweetness, with a very mellow finish. Second, it has a higher caffeine content per volume because the shorter roasting process preserves more of the bean’s natural caffeine. And third, its smoothness makes it incredibly easy to drink, even for those who usually find coffee too bitter. It’s a gentler introduction to straight coffee flavors, though Dutch Bros most commonly serves it in their sweetened, milky concoctions.
The Unique Taste Profile of Dutch Bros White Coffee
Forget the dark, smoky, or bitter notes you might associate with a bold roast. White coffee offers a completely different sensory experience. Because the beans are barely roasted, they retain more of their original characteristics. The acidity is very low, and the harsh compounds that develop during longer roasting never form.
When you take a sip, you’ll notice it’s less about “coffee” punch and more about subtle, comforting notes. Think of the warm, gentle taste of toasted almonds or pecans. There’s a distinct grain-like quality, similar to fresh-baked bread or even a mild cereal. Many people detect a natural vanilla or brown sugar sweetness without any added sugar. The body is also lighter and smoother, almost tea-like in its drinkability. It doesn’t overpower the other ingredients in your drink, which is why it pairs so well with Dutch Bros’ extensive lineup of flavors and sauces.
How the Caffeine Content Compares
This is a big draw for many customers. Yes, white coffee generally contains more caffeine than a dark roast coffee when measured by scoop. Here’s the simple science: the roasting process actually burns off a small amount of caffeine. Since white coffee undergoes minimal roasting, more of the original caffeine remains in the bean.
However, there’s an important catch to understand. At Dutch Bros, when you order a drink “with white coffee,” they are replacing the standard espresso shot(s) with white coffee espresso shots. A standard shot of their white coffee espresso does pack a more caffeinated punch than a regular espresso shot. But remember, the overall caffeine in your drink depends on how many shots you get. A small mocha with one white coffee shot will have less total caffeine than a large latte with three regular shots. If you’re sensitive to caffeine, it’s wise to start with a smaller size or fewer shots, even with white coffee. The percieved energy boost might also feel different due to the lack of bitter compounds, leading to a smoother, less jittery alertness for some people.
How to Order White Coffee at Dutch Bros
Ordering it is straightforward once you know the secret. You can’t get a plain cup of brewed white coffee—it’s only available as an espresso-based option. Here’s the simple step-by-step:
1. Choose your favorite drink. Any menu item that uses espresso can be made with white coffee. This includes classics like lattes, mochas, cappuccinos, americanos, and their signature blended “freezes.”
2. Customize your size and flavor. Pick your size (Small, Medium, Large) and any flavor additions like vanilla, chocolate macadamia nut, or caramel.
3. Simply ask for “white coffee.” Tell the barista you’d like that drink made with white coffee. For example: “Can I have a medium iced vanilla latte made with white coffee?” or “I’ll take a large caramel mocha freeze with white coffee.”
4. Specify your shot count (optional). For an extra boost, you can add an additional shot. You can also request “half white coffee, half regular” if you want to mellow the flavor a bit while still getting some of that unique taste.
The drink will look different too. The espresso itself has a pale, creamy beige color, similar to peanut butter. When mixed with milk, it creates a lighter, tan beverage instead of the deep brown you’re used to. Don’t worry, it’s not a mistake—that’s how it’s supposed to look!
Popular Dutch Bros Drinks to Try with White Coffee
Some drink combinations have become legendary among Dutch Bros fans. The smooth, nutty flavor of white coffee complements sweet flavors exceptionally well. Here are a few top recommendations to try on your first visit:
* White Coffee Annihilator: This is arguably the most famous order. The classic Annihilator is made with vanilla macadamia nut and chocolate macadamia nut. Using white coffee enhances the nutty flavors perfectly, creating a rich, sweet, and incredibly smooth experience.
* White Coffee Golden Eagle: A caramel and vanilla drink with caramel drizzle. The white coffee adds a toasty depth that makes the caramel taste even more luxurious.
* White Coffee Dutch Frost (Blended): Perfect for a hot day. The frozen, milkshake-like texture combined with the smooth white coffee and your choice of flavor (like chocolate or caramel) is a total treat.
* Simple White Coffee Latte: If you really want to appreciate the pure flavor of the white coffee itself, try it in a plain latte with just milk. You’ll be able to taste all those subtle, sweet notes without any other flavors competing.
* White Coffee Hot Chocolate: For a non-coffee option that still has a kick, this is a genius order. The white coffee blends seamlessly into the chocolate, adding a warm, nutty complexity and caffeine.
Common Questions and Misconceptions
Even with its popularity, there’s still some confusion swirling around white coffee. Let’s set the record straight on a few things.
Is it stronger?
It has more caffeine per shot, but “stronger” is subjective. Its flavor is milder and less bitter, so it might not taste stronger. The caffeine effect can feel more direct for some people though.
Does it taste sour or acidic?
No. Light roast regular coffee can be bright and acidic, but white coffee is roasted so lightly that it doesn’t develop those acidic notes. It’s known for being very low-acid and gentle on the stomach, which is a major benefit.
Why does it cost extra?
At Dutch Bros, there is usually a small upcharge (often around 80 cents) for white coffee. This is because the beans are a specialty product with a different roasting process. The demand is also high, which can effect pricing.
Can I buy the beans to brew at home?
Yes! Dutch Bros sells bags of their white coffee beans at most stands. You can grind and brew them in your home espresso machine, or even in a regular drip coffee maker. Note that because the beans are very hard, they require a powerful grinder. Many people choose to have Dutch Bros grind them at the stand.
Tips for Your First Time Trying It
To get the best experience, keep these pointers in mind:
* Start with a familiar flavor. Order your usual Dutch Bros drink, just with white coffee. This lets you directly compare and appreciate the difference it makes.
* Expect a color change. Your drink will be a light tan, not dark brown. It’s normal!
* Consider less sugar. White coffee has a natural sweetness, so you might find you enjoy your standard drink with half the usual sweetener. It’s worth experimenting.
* Ask the barista. They are famously friendly and knowledgeable. Don’t hesitate to tell them it’s your first time trying white coffee and ask for their personal recommendation.
The Final Verdict on Dutch Bros White Coffee
So, what is white coffee at Dutch Bros? It’s a unique, lightly-roasted espresso that offers a nutty, sweet, and smooth alternative to traditional coffee. Its higher caffeine content and low bitterness have earned it a dedicated following. Whether you’re looking for a new way to enjoy your morning boost or a sweeter, gentler coffee experience, it’s absolutely worth a try. The next time you roll up to the vibrant Dutch Bros stand, skip your regular order for a moment and ask for your drink with white coffee. You might just discover your new favorite way to get your caffeine fix. Its distinct character is a testament to how varied the world of coffee can be, and Dutch Bros has made it an easy and delicious adventure for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What exactly is white coffee?
A: White coffee is made from beans roasted at a lower temperature for a shorter time than regular coffee. This gives the beans a light tan color and a flavor that’s nutty, sweet, and smooth with very low bitterness.
Q: Does white coffee have more caffeine than regular coffee at Dutch Bros?
A: Yes, a shot of their white coffee espresso contains more caffeine than a shot of their regular espresso. However, the total caffeine in your drink depends on the size and number of shots.
Q: Can I get any Dutch Bros drink with white coffee?
A: You can get any drink that uses espresso shots made with white coffee. This includes lattes, mochas, americanos, freezes, and more. Just ask for it when you order.
Q: Why is my white coffee drink a light color?
A: This is completely normal! The lightly roasted espresso has a pale, beige color similar to peanut butter. When mixed with milk, it creates a light tan beverage instead of a dark brown one.
Q: Is white coffee less acidic?
A: Yes, the minimal roasting process means white coffee is naturally very low in acidity. This makes it a great option for people who find regular coffee too harsh on their stomach.
Q: Does it cost extra to get white coffee?
A: There is typically a small additional charge, usually less than a dollar, to upgrade your drink to white coffee at Dutch Bros.
Q: What does Dutch Bros white coffee taste like?
A: It has a unique profile with prominent notes of toasted nuts, vanilla, and a natural sweetness. It lacks the bitter, smoky, or charred flavors of darker roasts. Many describe it as exceptionally smooth and easy to drink.