Dutch Bros Coffee, a popular drive-thru coffee chain in the United States, has made a name for itself not only for its delicious beverages but also for its customer-focused and friendly service.
One of the most iconic drinks on the Dutch Bros menu is the Golden Eagle, a delightful concoction blending espresso, caramel, and vanilla flavors, offered in hot, iced, or blended variations, to satisfy the tastes of a wide range of coffee enthusiasts.
The Golden Eagle has become synonymous with Dutch Bros Coffee, and for good reason.
This beverage might not appeal to everyone due to its sweetness, but it has gained a loyal following of fans who crave this rich, velvety, and smooth brew.
The Golden Eagle’s versatility and ability to be customized have turned it into a favorite among Dutch Bros regulars.
If you’re an aspiring home barista or simply interested in replicating this crowd-pleaser, we’re here to help. Let’s discover Dutch Bros Golden Eagle recipe!
Key Takeaways
- An iconic Dutch Bros beverage, the Golden Eagle is a rich and smooth concoction of espresso, caramel, and vanilla flavors.
- Versatile and customizable, the Golden Eagle can be served hot, iced, or blended to suit individual preferences.
- Aspiring home baristas can recreate this fan-favorite brew by refining their brewing techniques and coffee quality.
History of Dutch Bros Golden Eagle
The Dutch Bros coffee chain’s history began in 1992 in downtown Oregon, where it started from humble beginnings with a single pushcart.
The Golden Eagle Dutch Bros, also known as “The Gold,” emerged as their signature drink, and over time, it became a fan favorite.
Initially offered in three sizes (small, medium, or large), it had three distinct variations: iced, hot, or blended.
The rich, creamy, and indulgently sweet flavor profile of the Golden Eagle has made it a top pick for Dutch Bros devotees.
Comparisons can be drawn to a caramel breve, and its iced version shares similarities with the iced caramel macchiato offered by rival coffee companies like Starbucks.
The official recipe for the Golden Eagle remains a secret, but copycat versions have surfaced online, making it more accessible for at-home baristas.
A typical copycat recipe might include ingredients such as:
- Vanilla syrup
- Half-and-half
- Ice cubes
- Whipped cream (optional)
- Nutmeg or cinnamon (optional)
As the popularity of the Golden Eagle Dutch Bros cup of coffee drink soared, the company expanded to hundreds of drive-thru locations across the United States, with Oregon remaining as its headquarters.
Today, the Golden Eagle is a symbol of Dutch Bros’ growth and success, boasting a fanatics following who appreciate its rich and satisfying taste.
The Dutch Bros Golden Eagle Recipe Breakdown
Core Ingredients
The Dutch Bros Golden Eagle is a delicious and popular drink that features a delightful blend of flavors.
The core ingredients for this recipe include espresso, milk, caramel, and vanilla.
To enjoy a refreshing iced version, simply add ice and top it off with a drizzle of caramel sauce and a dollop of whipped cream.
For a hot version, steam the milk and froth it before adding the espresso.
Signature Flavor Profile
The signature taste of the Dutch Bros Golden Eagle is reminiscent of a caramel breve or an iced caramel macchiato.
The combination of espresso, milk, and vanilla syrup creates a rich, creamy base, while the caramel drizzle adds a touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
Those looking for a healthier option can substitute the caramel sauce and vanilla syrup with sugar-free caramel sauce to reduce the sugar intake.
Nutritional Information
The calorie content and nutritional value of the Dutch Bros Golden Eagle can vary depending on its size and preparation method.
For a more diet-friendly version, you can easily modify the recipe by using sugar-free syrup and opting for a keto or low-calorie milk alternative.
This will help reduce the overall sugar intake and make it a more suitable option for those with specific dietary preferences.
Brewing Techniques and Coffee Quality
Espresso Extraction
The Dutch Bros Golden Eagle is a signature beverage that primarily relies on the quality of the espresso used.
To achieve a rich and satisfying flavor for your Golden Eagle, it’s essential to use strong espresso roast beans and properly extract the espresso shots.
The extraction should result in a balanced taste, balancing the sweetness, acidity, and bitterness of the coffee.
For an authentic Golden Eagle experience, you can use Dutch Bros Private Reserve Blend online, which is what they use in-house.
Brewing tips:
- Ensure your coffee beans are freshly ground.
- Use the correct espresso grind size.
- Tamp the coffee evenly in the portafilter.
- Maintain a consistent brewing temperature and pressure.
Alternative Brewing Methods
If you don’t have an espresso machine, there are alternative brewing methods such as the AeroPress and the Moka Pot that can produce strong, espresso-like coffee.
The AeroPress, although not an espresso maker, can create a concentrated coffee similar to espresso with minimal effort.
With the Moka Pot, a traditional stovetop method, you can brew a strong coffee that closely resembles the taste and strength of espresso.
Another option is using cold brew concentrate when making an iced or blended Golden Eagle. Cold-brew coffee offers a lower acidity level and brews coffee at room temperature, producing a smooth and distinct flavor.
To make your iced or blended Golden Eagle, mix your cold brew concentrate with water or milk.
For those seeking a lower caffeine content or a decaf alternative, you can use Dutch Bros Decaf Private Reserve blend, which still provides the same rich flavors without the high caffeine content.
Additionally, Dutch Bros offers white coffee, a lighter roast coffee with a nuttier flavor and slightly higher caffeine content for those looking for an alternative to traditional espresso but with a caffeine boost.
Consider the following when choosing an alternative brewing method:
- AeroPress: Requires special filters; is portable and easy to clean.
- Moka Pot: Not suitable for induction cooktops; takes longer to brew.
- Cold Brew: Requires a long steeping time (12-24 hours).
- Decaf: Ensures a lower caffeine content while maintaining flavor.
- White Coffee: Offers a unique flavor and slightly higher caffeine content.
By understanding different brewing techniques and coffee preparation methods, you can create a Dutch Bros Golden Eagle that meets your taste preferences and coffee experience expectations, by using your preferred blend of espresso coffee recipes.
Customization Options
Milk Varieties
There are various milk options you can use in the Dutch Bros Golden Eagle recipe.
While the classic recipe calls for half-and-half, you may also consider using other milk alternatives to suit your preference or dietary requirements.
Some popular options include:
- Almond milk: A nutty and dairy-free alternative
- Oat milk: Adds a rich, creamy texture and is another dairy-free choice
- Soy milk: High in protein and also dairy-free
- Coconut milk: Provides a hint of tropical flavor while being dairy-free
- Whole milk: Can replace half-and-half for a lighter texture
Flavors and Sweeteners
Customize the sweetness and flavor of your Dutch Bros Golden Eagle copycat recipe with different syrups and sweeteners.
The classic recipe includes vanilla syrup and caramel sauce.
You can experiment with other Torani syrups or create a sugar-free version with sugar-free syrups.
Flavor options:
- Chocolate syrup
- Hazelnut syrup
- White chocolate syrup
Sweetener options:
- Simple syrup
- Sugar-free flavored syrups (e.g., Torani)
- Natural sweeteners (e.g., honey, agave nectar, or stevia)
Calorie Considerations
For those seeking a lower-calorie or keto-friendly version of the Dutch Bros Golden Eagle, consider making simple substitutions. Replace half-and-half with a lower-calorie milk alternative like almond or coconut milk.
You can also opt for a sugar-free caramel sauce and sugar-free flavored syrups.
Adding protein powder can increase the nutritional value without significantly impacting calorie count.
Alternate Versions
Change up the temperature and texture of the Golden Eagle by trying it in various forms:
- Iced: Serve your homemade Golden Eagle over ice for a refreshing cold beverage on warm days.
- Hot: Enjoy a steaming cup of Golden Eagle with a rich and creamy texture when served hot.
- Blended: Blend your Golden Eagle with ice for a thick, frosty treat similar to an iced caramel macchiato.
Additionally, explore other unique variations of the Golden Eagle recipe, such as the chai Golden Eagle, by adding chai tea concentrate instead of espresso.
With these customization options, you can tailor your Dutch Bros Golden Eagle experience to fit your personal taste preferences and dietary needs.
Serving and Presentation
Toppings and Add-ons
The Dutch Bros Golden Eagle can be customized to individual preferences with a variety of toppings and add-ons.
Whipped cream is the classic topper, adding a pillowy soft layer to the drink.
To enhance the flavors even more, a generous caramel drizzle is a must-have.
Other optional toppings include:
- Chocolate sauce: For those who appreciate a bit of chocolate goodness.
- Froth: A light and creamy addition to the hot version of the drink.
- Cinnamon or nutmeg: Spice up your beverage with a dusting of either of these warming spices.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving the Dutch Bros Golden Eagle, it’s essential to consider the presentation, starting with the serving glass.
Choose a tall glass to showcase the beautiful layers, and drizzle caramel sauce on the inside walls of the glass for visual appeal and extra flavor.
The drink can be enjoyed in three different ways:
- Iced: The iced version boasts a crisp, refreshing texture perfect for hot summer days. Simply add ice to your serving glass before pouring the drink ingredients.
- Hot: For those who prefer a warm and comforting beverage, simply skip the ice and enjoy the rich flavors enveloped in steaming hot espresso and half-and-half.
- Blended: A blended Golden Eagle offers a smooth and thick texture, reminiscent of a dessert-like treat. To achieve the perfect consistency, blend ice with the main ingredients until the mixture reaches the desired thickness.
One special tip for an ultimate Dutch Bros experience is to serve the drink upside down.
This technique ensures that the caramel and other sauces seep into every sip, creating a more consistent and indulgent flavor profile.
Secret Menu and Cult Classics
Discovering Hidden Gems
Dutch Bros has a wide variety of secret menu items and cult classics that customers can enjoy.
Among their hidden gems is the Golden Eagle Chai, a delightful twist on the signature drink, the Golden Eagle.
This version combines the delicious flavors of chai tea with the creamy, buttery taste of the Golden Eagle, making it a unique and indulgent treat.
Another popular secret menu item is the Rebel, a highly customizable energy drink that comes in numerous flavor combinations.
The Rebel is perfect for those who want a refreshing and energizing beverage that caters to their personal taste.
Some secret menu items at Dutch Bros include:
- Golden Eagle Chai
- Rebel
- Golden Eagle
- Chai Tea
Becoming Your Own Barista
Creating your favorite Dutch Bros drinks at home can be a fun and rewarding way to enjoy these delicious beverages.
By following a copycat recipe, you can recreate the Golden Eagle, Golden Eagle Chai, and other cult classics in your own kitchen.
To make a homemade Golden Eagle, start by brewing espresso or strong coffee, and combine it with vanilla syrup and caramel sauce. Serve it hot or iced, according to your preference.
For a homemade Golden Eagle Chai, simply add chai tea to the mix, ensuring a delightful fusion of flavors.
Experiment with different flavor combinations, and don’t forget to add whipped cream and caramel drizzle on top for an extra touch of indulgence.
With a little practice and creativity, you can become your own barista and enjoy Dutch Bros’ secret menu and cult classics anytime, anywhere.
| Ingredient | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Espresso | Brew and let cool to room temperature. |
| Honey | Add to the glass and stir until dissolved. |
| Half and Half | Pour desired amount into the glass. |
| Ice | Fill a glass with ice cubes. |
| Optional Flavorings (e.g., vanilla, caramel) | Add to taste, if desired. |
| Whipped Cream | Top the drink with whipped cream. |
| Cinnamon | Sprinkle a dash of cinnamon on top for garnish. |
| Nutmeg | Optionally, sprinkle nutmeg on top for additional garnish. |
Conclusion
Creating a homemade Dutch Bros Golden Eagle latte offers the satisfaction of enjoying a popular coffee drink known for its rich flavor and decadent caramel essence without leaving the comfort of your home.
This delicious drink, a staple at the coffee shop, combines the warmth of strongly brewed coffee or a double shot of espresso with the creamy sweetness of caramel and vanilla, all topped with a luscious soft top of frothed milk and a caramel sauce drizzle.
To make this recipe, you’ll need key ingredients: two shots of espresso or a cup of strongly brewed coffee as the base, providing the robust and rich espresso foundation.
High-quality ingredients play a crucial role in achieving the original recipe’s taste and satisfaction.
For the signature sweet touch, add the caramel sauce to the coffee, using equal parts to blend the espresso shots with the caramel flavors perfectly.
The use of half-and-half adds a creamy texture, but feel free to use your choice of milk, including dairy-free alternatives, to cater to personal dietary preferences.
Frothing the milk to achieve that signature Dutch Bros-style Golden Eagle soft top brings the drink together, making this Dutch Bros Golden Eagle a delicious coffee beverage that rivals any coffee shop creation.
For those looking to replicate the delicious Dutch Bros Golden Eagle at home, simple steps and the right balance of coffee, caramel, and milk can make this espresso drink a reality.
Whether you’re using a traditional espresso machine or a simple coffee maker, you can achieve a homemade Dutch Bros Golden Eagle that satisfies your coffee cravings at a fraction of the price.
This copycat Dutch Bros golden eagle recipe proves that with the right approach and high-quality ingredients, you can recreate the essence of Dutch Bros’ best coffee creations with copycat Golden Eagle, offering a delicious drink that’s both comforting and indulgent.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are in a Golden Eagle drink from Dutch Bros?
A Golden Eagle drink from Dutch Bros is a delicious combination of espresso, half-and-half, vanilla syrup, and caramel sauce. It’s often topped with whipped cream and a caramel drizzle.
This indulgent beverage can be enjoyed hot, iced, or as a blended treat.
How can I make a Golden Eagle drink at home?
To make a Golden Eagle at home, you’ll need a shot of espresso, half-and-half, vanilla syrup, and caramel sauce.
First, pour the desired amount of vanilla syrup and caramel sauce into a cup.
Next, add the espresso and half-and-half, mixing well. Depending on your preference, you can serve it hot or iced by simply adding ice. For a blended version, combine the ingredients with ice and blend until smooth.
Top the beverage with whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Is there a sugar-free version of the Dutch Bros Golden Eagle?
While Dutch Bros does not officially offer a sugar-free version of the Golden Eagle, you can customize the drink by requesting sugar-free alternatives of the vanilla syrup and caramel sauce.
Additionally, you may be able to substitute lower-fat milk or dairy-free alternatives for the half-and-half to reduce overall calories.
What are the nutritional facts for a Dutch Bros Golden Eagle?
Specific nutritional facts for a Dutch Bros Golden Eagle depend on the size and preparation method.
One thing to note is that the Golden Eagle drinks tend to be higher in calories and caffeine content than other beverages, due to the combination of espresso, syrup, and half and half.
How many calories are in a Golden Eagle drink at Dutch Bros?
The exact calorie count for a Golden Eagle drink at Dutch Bros varies based on size and preparation.
However, it’s essential to remember that this beverage generally contains higher calories due to its rich ingredients, such as espresso, half-and-half, and syrups.
Why does the Golden Eagle drink at Dutch Bros taste so creamy?
The creaminess of the Golden Eagle is a popular drink at Dutch Bros comes from the combination of half-and-half and the buttery caramel sauce, which creates a rich, velvety texture.
Topped with whipped cream, this drink is truly a delightful treat for those who appreciate a creamy, indulgent espresso beverage.
