Make Your Own Vanilla Bean Coolatta at Home

The Vanilla Bean Coolatta from Dunkin’ Donuts is a sweet, creamy frozen drink that’s a favorite for many. With its smooth vanilla flavor and fun swirl of bean specks, this Coolatta is perfect for beating the heat. If you don’t live near a Dunkin’ location or want to save money by making it at home, this easy Vanilla Bean Coolatta recipe will satisfy your craving.

An Overview of the Vanilla Bean Coolatta

For those not familiar, a Coolatta is Dunkin’s line of non-coffee frozen blended drinks. The Vanilla Bean Coolatta specifically contains no coffee or caffeine. It’s made with a creamy vanilla soft serve base that gets blended with milk and ice to create a slushy, milkshake-like treat. Real vanilla bean flecks swirl throughout, adding extra flavor and visual appeal. Topped with whipped cream and a drizzle, it’s sweet vanilla bliss!

Dunkin’ Donuts first launched Coolattas back in 1997, later introducing the Vanilla Bean flavor. It quickly became one of their most popular Coolatta varieties for its sweet vanilla taste. Fans love that you can customize it with different milk options too.

Why Make a Homemade Version?

There are several benefits to crafting a Vanilla Bean Coolatta at home:

• Save money – Buying a Coolatta at Dunkin’ every time you crave one can get pricy Making it yourself costs a fraction of the price

• Customize ingredients – Tailor the recipe to your dietary needs by using plant-based milk, less sugar, etc.

• Add extra toppings – Go wild with homemade whipped cream, chocolate drizzle, and other fun toppings

• Enjoy it anytime – Don’t have to drive to Dunkin’ when a craving hits. Just blend it up!

• Control serving size – Make a single serving or a big batch for a group.

• Simple method – Requires no special equipment beyond a blender.

How to Make a Vanilla Bean Coolatta at Home

Recreating this iconic frozen drink is surprisingly easy. With just 6 ingredients and a blender, you can enjoy this creamy vanilla treat anytime.

Ingredients

• 1 cup vanilla creamer
• 1⁄4 cup vanilla yogurt
• 2 Tbsp sweetened condensed milk
• 1⁄2 cup milk
• 1 1⁄2 cups ice
• Toppings like whipped cream, chocolate drizzle, etc. (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Add the vanilla creamer, vanilla yogurt, sweetened condensed milk, milk, and ice to a blender.

2. Blend the mixture on high speed until thoroughly combined and smooth. Scrape down sides as needed.

3. Pour the Vanilla Bean Coolatta into a glass and top with whipped cream, chocolate drizzle, or other fun toppings if desired.

4. Enjoy with a spoon straw while thick and slushy, before it melts.

Tips for the Best Homemade Coolatta

• Use high-fat milk and creamer for maximum creaminess.

• Add a pinch of salt to balance sweetness.

• Substitute vanilla ice cream for some of the ice for extra richness.

• Customize with different milk types, flavored creamers, etc.

• Garnish with chocolate shavings, rainbow sprinkles, chopped nuts, etc.

• Stir in a few drops of food coloring for a more vibrant color.

• For a frothier drink, blend in a prepared whipped cream like Cool Whip.

FAQs About Making a Vanilla Bean Coolatta

What can I use instead of sweetened condensed milk?

You can substitute vanilla syrup, honey, agave, or other liquid sweeteners. For a dairy-free option, use coconut condensed milk.

What kind of vanilla yogurt works best?

Opt for a sweeter, creamier yogurt over tangy Greek yogurt. Noosa and Chobani are great choices.

Can I use almond milk or other dairy-free milks?

Yes, you can use any non-dairy milk you like. Just know the texture may be slightly thinner than with dairy milk.

What if I don’t have vanilla bean yogurt?

Substitute extra vanilla creamer or vanilla pudding mix instead. It won’t have those vanilla bean flecks though.

How long does it keep in the freezer?

It will last 2-3 days in the freezer but loses its creamy texture over time. Best to enjoy immediately.

What can I mix with the Vanilla Bean Coolatta?

Try adding chocolate or strawberry syrup. You can also blend in fresh fruit like bananas or berries.

Fun Flavor Variations to Try

The beauty of a homemade Vanilla Bean Coolatta is you can customize the recipe with different mix-ins. Here are some tasty flavor combinations to try:

• Cookies and Cream – Add Oreo cookie pieces and chocolate chips.

• S’mores – Swirl in chocolate sauce and marshmallow fluff.

• Chai Spice – Stir in chai tea concentrate and spices like cinnamon.

• Strawberry Cheesecake – Blend in strawberry sauce and graham cracker crumbs.

• Mocha – Mix in chocolate sauce and instant coffee granules.

• Peanut Butter Banana – Use banana-flavored yogurt and fold in peanut butter.

• Pumpkin Spice – Add pumpkin puree, spices, and butterscotch chips.

Enjoy the Creamy Vanilla Goodness at Home

With just a handful of ingredients and a blender, you can create a refreshing Vanilla Bean Coolatta from the comfort of your own kitchen. So skip the drive-thru and blend up this delightfully creamy, dreamy drink anytime a craving strikes. Customize it to your taste and top it with all your favorite treats.