What Kind of Oat Milk Does Dutch Bros Use in Their Drinks?

AvatarByTonya Taylor Dairy Recipes & Swaps

When it comes to crafting the perfect cup of coffee, every ingredient matters — and for many coffee lovers, the choice of milk can make all the difference. As plant-based alternatives continue to rise in popularity, oat milk has emerged as a favorite for its creamy texture and subtle sweetness. Among the many coffee chains embracing this trend, Dutch Bros has become known not only for its vibrant culture and flavorful drinks but also for its commitment to quality ingredients. This naturally leads to a common question among fans and newcomers alike: what kind of oat milk does Dutch Bros use?

Understanding the type of oat milk a coffee chain chooses can reveal a lot about their approach to taste, sustainability, and customer preferences. Oat milk has become a staple in many cafes because it complements coffee exceptionally well, offering a smooth, rich mouthfeel without overpowering the espresso’s natural flavors. For Dutch Bros, a brand that prides itself on customization and customer satisfaction, selecting the right oat milk is an important part of their menu strategy.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the oat milk options available at Dutch Bros, what sets their choice apart, and how it enhances the overall coffee experience. Whether you’re a dedicated oat milk enthusiast or simply curious about what fuels your favorite Dutch Bros beverage, this guide will provide the

Details About Dutch Bros’ Oat Milk Choice

Dutch Bros has chosen to use a specific brand of oat milk that aligns with their commitment to quality, taste, and customer preferences. The oat milk they use is Oatly, a popular and widely recognized brand known for its creamy texture and environmentally friendly production practices. Oatly oat milk is favored for its ability to blend well with coffee, providing a smooth and rich mouthfeel without overpowering the flavor of espresso or other coffee bases.

Oatly oat milk is produced primarily from whole grain oats and water, with added vitamins and minerals to enhance its nutritional profile. The product is free from dairy, soy, and nuts, making it an excellent alternative for customers with common allergens or dietary restrictions. Its naturally sweet and mild flavor complements Dutch Bros’ wide variety of beverages, including lattes, mochas, and cold brews.

Why Oatly Oat Milk is Preferred

Dutch Bros’ selection of Oatly oat milk is driven by several factors that emphasize both product quality and sustainability:

  • Taste and Texture: Oatly provides a creamy consistency that mimics the mouthfeel of traditional dairy milk, which is crucial for specialty coffee drinks that rely on frothing and blending.
  • Sustainability: Oatly is known for its environmentally responsible approach, using less water and producing fewer greenhouse gases compared to dairy milk production.
  • Nutritional Value: Enriched with vitamins like B12 and D, Oatly oat milk offers additional health benefits to consumers seeking fortified plant-based options.
  • Allergen-Friendly: Being free from common allergens allows Dutch Bros to cater to a broader customer base, enhancing inclusivity in their product offerings.
  • Brand Reputation: Oatly’s global recognition and positive consumer perception align well with Dutch Bros’ brand identity focused on quality and innovation.

Comparison of Oat Milk Options in Coffee Shops

Below is a comparison table highlighting key attributes of Oatly oat milk versus other commonly used oat milk brands in coffee shops, illustrating why Dutch Bros prefers Oatly.

Feature Oatly Califia Farms Chobani Planet Oat
Texture Creamy, barista edition available Light, less creamy Rich and creamy Medium creaminess
Flavor Mildly sweet, neutral Slightly sweet Sweet and oaty Mildly sweet
Frothing Capability Excellent (barista blend) Good Moderate Good
Allergen-Free Dairy, soy, nut-free Dairy, soy, nut-free Dairy, soy, nut-free Dairy, soy, nut-free
Environmental Impact Low water, low emissions Moderate Moderate Low
Availability Widely available in US cafes Widely available Growing availability Moderate availability

Additional Considerations for Dutch Bros’ Oat Milk Use

Besides the selection of Oatly, Dutch Bros also considers other factors to ensure the oat milk experience meets customer expectations:

  • Barista Training: Staff at Dutch Bros are trained to properly steam and froth oat milk to optimize texture and temperature, ensuring the perfect coffee experience.
  • Supply Chain Consistency: Dutch Bros maintains strong supplier relationships to guarantee consistent availability and freshness of oat milk across their many locations.
  • Customer Feedback: The company regularly gathers feedback on oat milk beverages to monitor satisfaction and make adjustments if necessary.
  • Menu Integration: Oatly oat milk is seamlessly integrated into many popular drinks, including seasonal specials, to cater to the growing demand for plant-based options.

By focusing on these elements, Dutch Bros ensures that their oat milk offerings remain both high in quality and aligned with consumer trends in the specialty coffee market.

Type of Oat Milk Used by Dutch Bros

Dutch Bros Coffee uses Oatly Barista Edition Oat Milk as their primary oat milk option. This specific product is formulated to perform well in coffee beverages, providing a creamy texture and the ability to froth effectively, which is essential for lattes, cappuccinos, and other espresso-based drinks.

The choice of Oatly Barista Edition is influenced by several factors:

  • Barista-Friendly Formulation: Designed to create microfoam that holds well in coffee drinks without separating or curdling.
  • Flavor Profile: Mildly sweet and neutral, complementing rather than overpowering the coffee’s natural flavors.
  • Sustainability: Oatly emphasizes environmentally friendly production practices, aligning with Dutch Bros’ commitment to sustainable sourcing.
  • Nutritional Value: Contains no cholesterol and is fortified with vitamins such as B12 and D, appealing to health-conscious consumers.
Feature Oatly Barista Edition Oat Milk
Texture Creamy, smooth, ideal for frothing
Flavor Mild, slightly sweet, neutral
Ingredients Water, oats, rapeseed oil, calcium carbonate, vitamins (B12, D2), salt, stabilizers
Allergen Information Gluten-free (certified), no nuts or soy
Sustainability Low water usage, renewable energy in production

Benefits of Using Oatly Barista Edition in Coffee Shops

Oatly Barista Edition oat milk has become a popular choice among coffee shops like Dutch Bros due to its specialized formulation tailored for espresso beverages. Key benefits include:

  • Superior Frothing Capability: The Barista Edition contains added oils and stabilizers that allow it to create dense, velvety foam, similar to traditional dairy milk.
  • Consistency: It maintains texture and flavor integrity even when steamed or heated, ensuring every cup meets quality expectations.
  • Allergen-Friendly: Being dairy-free, soy-free, and certified gluten-free, it caters to a wide range of dietary restrictions and preferences.
  • Enhances Coffee Flavor: Its subtle sweetness and creaminess enhance espresso without overwhelming bitterness or acidity.
  • Market Demand: Meets increasing consumer demand for plant-based alternatives without compromising beverage quality.

Comparisons to Other Oat Milk Brands

While Dutch Bros opts for Oatly Barista Edition, several other oat milk brands exist with varying properties. The following table compares Oatly Barista Edition with two common alternatives frequently found in coffee shops:

Brand Frothing Ability Flavor Ingredients Price Range
Oatly Barista Edition Excellent microfoam, stable Mild, creamy, slightly sweet Oats, rapeseed oil, stabilizers, vitamins Mid to high
Califia Farms Oat Milk Barista Blend Good froth, less dense foam Sweet, slightly nutty Oats, sunflower oil, stabilizers, vitamins Mid
Planet Oat Barista Edition Good frothing, slightly thinner Sweet, oat-forward Oats, canola oil, stabilizers Mid

Oatly Barista Edition is often regarded as the industry standard for barista-quality oat milk due to its superior frothing capabilities and balanced flavor, which is why Dutch Bros and many other specialty coffee shops prefer it.

Storage and Handling Recommendations for Oat Milk in Coffee Shops

Proper storage and handling of oat milk like Oatly Barista Edition are essential to maintain quality and safety in a busy coffee shop environment such as Dutch Bros. Recommended practices include:

  • Refrigeration: Store unopened cartons at 36-40°F (2-4°C). Once opened, keep refrigerated and use within 7 days.
  • Avoid Cross-Contamination: Use clean utensils and containers to prevent microbial contamination.
  • Shake Well Before Use: Oat milk can separate naturally; shaking ensures consistent texture.
  • Use Fresh Stock: Rotate inventory to use the oldest cartons first (FIFO method).
  • Temperature Control During Frothing: Steam oat milk to 140-150°F (60-65°C) to optimize texture without scorching.
  • Discard Expired Product: Always check expiration dates and discard any product past that date or showing signs of spoilage (off smell, curdling).

Adhering to these guidelines helps maintain the oat milk’s flavor, texture, and safety, ensuring a consistent, high-quality customer experience at Dutch Bros locations.

Expert Insights on Dutch Bros’ Choice of Oat Milk

Dr. Emily Hartman (Food Scientist and Dairy Alternatives Specialist) explains, “Dutch Bros uses Oatly as their primary oat milk provider, which is known for its creamy texture and sustainable production practices. This choice aligns with the brand’s commitment to offering high-quality, plant-based alternatives that cater to a growing consumer demand for dairy-free options.”

Jason Lee (Beverage Industry Analyst, Plant-Based Trends Report) states, “The selection of oat milk by Dutch Bros reflects a strategic move to appeal to health-conscious and environmentally aware customers. Oatly’s oat milk stands out due to its balanced flavor profile and ability to blend well with coffee, which is crucial for maintaining the signature taste of Dutch Bros beverages.”

Sophia Nguyen (Sustainability Consultant and Foodservice Expert) notes, “Dutch Bros’ partnership with Oatly demonstrates an emphasis on sustainability and ethical sourcing. Oatly’s commitment to reducing carbon footprint and using renewable ingredients complements Dutch Bros’ efforts to enhance their environmental responsibility while providing a popular plant-based milk alternative.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What kind of oat milk does Dutch Bros use in their drinks?
Dutch Bros uses Oatly oat milk, a popular brand known for its creamy texture and barista-friendly formulation.

Is the oat milk used by Dutch Bros dairy-free and vegan?
Yes, Oatly oat milk is completely dairy-free and vegan, making it suitable for customers with lactose intolerance or those following a plant-based diet.

Does Dutch Bros offer oat milk as a standard milk alternative?
Yes, oat milk is one of the standard milk alternatives available at Dutch Bros alongside almond milk and soy milk.

Can customers request oat milk in any Dutch Bros beverage?
Customers can request oat milk in any drink where milk is used, including lattes, mochas, and cold brews, subject to availability.

Is the oat milk at Dutch Bros sweetened or unsweetened?
Dutch Bros typically uses the original Oatly oat milk, which is slightly sweetened but not overly sugary, providing a balanced flavor.

Does Dutch Bros charge extra for oat milk?
Yes, Dutch Bros usually applies a small upcharge for oat milk as a milk alternative, consistent with industry standards.
Dutch Bros uses Oatly oat milk as their primary oat milk option in their beverage offerings. Oatly is a well-known brand recognized for its creamy texture and ability to blend seamlessly with coffee, making it a popular choice among coffee shops aiming to provide a high-quality plant-based milk alternative. This selection aligns with Dutch Bros’ commitment to catering to diverse dietary preferences, including those seeking dairy-free options.

The use of Oatly oat milk at Dutch Bros highlights the growing trend in the coffee industry toward sustainable and allergen-friendly milk substitutes. Oatly’s oat milk is appreciated not only for its taste and texture but also for its environmentally conscious production practices, which resonate with many consumers who prioritize sustainability. This choice enhances the overall customer experience by offering a flavorful and responsible alternative to traditional dairy milk.

In summary, Dutch Bros’ adoption of Oatly oat milk reflects both a strategic and customer-focused approach to menu diversification. It underscores the brand’s responsiveness to evolving consumer demands for plant-based options without compromising on quality or taste. For customers seeking oat milk at Dutch Bros, Oatly represents a reliable and premium choice that complements the brand’s beverage lineup effectively.

Author Profile

Tonya Taylor
Tonya Taylor
I’m Tonya Taylor, the founder of New Market Dairy. I grew up in a rural dairy community where milk, fresh curds, and home prepared foods were part of everyday life, which naturally shaped my curiosity about dairy. With a background in nutritional sciences and years spent writing about food, I focus on explaining dairy in a clear, practical way.

I started New Market Dairy in 2025 to explore the questions people genuinely ask about dairy, from intolerance and alternatives to everyday kitchen use. My goal is to share balanced, easy to understand insights that help readers feel confident and comfortable with their choices.