Dunkin’ Donuts iced coffee has a devoted following that rivals any coffeehouse chain. It is smooth, sweet, and endlessly drinkable — the kind of coffee you can sip all morning without it getting harsh or bitter. The secret is simpler than you think, and this copycat recipe captures that signature Dunkin’ flavor perfectly.

Why This Recipe Works

Dunkin’ uses a medium-roast coffee, which produces a smoother, less acidic flavor than dark roasts. They also sweeten their drinks with liquid sugar rather than granulated, which is why the sweetness is always perfectly distributed. The simple syrup in this recipe replicates that technique. Brewing the coffee stronger than normal compensates for the dilution from ice.

Pro Tips

• Medium-roast beans are the key to the Dunkin’ flavor profile. Dark roasts will taste too bitter and bold.
• Make a large batch of coffee and simple syrup at the beginning of the week for instant iced coffees all week long.
• For a Dunkin’-style flavor swirl, add 2 tablespoons of caramel, mocha, or hazelnut syrup instead of plain simple syrup.
• Use whole milk for the creamiest result, or switch to oat milk for a popular dairy-free option.