Dutch Bros Picture Perfect Chocolate Espresso Refresher Recipe
Introduction
The Dutch Bros Picture Perfect is a delightful iced espresso drink that combines rich chocolate, creamy vanilla, and a hint of caramel. Smooth and visually appealing, it’s an indulgent treat perfect for any coffee lover looking to enjoy a café-style beverage at home.

Ingredients
- 2 shots of espresso
- 1/2 cup chocolate milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 tbsp chocolate sauce (for drizzling)
- 1 tbsp caramel sauce (for drizzling)
- 1 tbsp vanilla syrup
- 1 cup ice cubes
- 1/4 tsp xanthan gum
- Whipped cream
Instructions
- Step 1: Blend the espresso shots with the chocolate milk, ice cubes, xanthan gum, and vanilla syrup until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Step 2: Drizzle chocolate sauce and caramel sauce around the inside of your serving glass to create a decorative pattern.
- Step 3: Pour the blended espresso mixture into the prepared glass.
- Step 4: Top the drink with whipped cream and add extra caramel and chocolate sauce drizzled over the top for a picture-perfect finish.
Tips & Variations
- Use a high-quality vanilla syrup or make your own for the best flavor.
- Substitute the chocolate milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
- Xanthan gum helps create a creamy texture but can be omitted if preferred; just expect a lighter consistency.
- For extra richness, add a splash of cream or half-and-half before blending.
Storage
This drink is best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, store them in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Stir well before serving cold or add fresh ice. Reheating is not recommended as it alters the texture and flavor.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular milk instead of chocolate milk?
Yes, you can use regular milk and add extra chocolate sauce or cocoa powder to maintain the chocolate flavor.
What does xanthan gum do in this recipe?
Xanthan gum acts as a natural thickener, giving the drink a creamy, smooth texture that helps the ingredients blend without separating.
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Dutch Bros Picture Perfect Chocolate Espresso Refresher Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
Description
The Dutch Bros Picture Perfect is a delightful blended espresso beverage featuring rich chocolate milk, espresso shots, and a blend of chocolate and caramel sauces. This creamy, iced drink is topped with whipped cream and drizzles for a visually appealing and indulgent treat.
Ingredients
Espresso Mixture
- 2 shots of espresso
- 1/2 cup chocolate milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 tbsp vanilla syrup
- 1 cup ice cubes
- 1/4 tsp xanthan gum
Sauces and Toppings
- 1 tbsp chocolate sauce (for drizzling)
- 1 tbsp caramel sauce (for drizzling)
- Whipped cream (for topping)
Instructions
- Blend Ingredients: Combine the 2 shots of espresso, 1/2 cup of chocolate milk, 1 cup of ice cubes, 1/4 tsp xanthan gum, and 1 tbsp vanilla syrup in a blender. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring the ice is fully incorporated for a chilled, frothy consistency.
- Prepare Glass: Drizzle 1 tbsp chocolate sauce and 1 tbsp caramel sauce around the inside walls of your serving glass to create an attractive layered effect once the beverage is poured.
- Assemble Drink: Pour the blended espresso and chocolate mixture into the prepared glass carefully to maintain the sauce drizzles’ pattern outlined inside the glass.
- Add Toppings: Generously top the drink with whipped cream. For extra indulgence and visual appeal, drizzle additional caramel and chocolate sauces over the whipped cream to finish.
Notes
- Xanthan gum helps thicken and stabilize the blended drink for a creamy texture without separating.
- Use dairy or non-dairy chocolate milk according to dietary preference or restriction.
- Adjust sweetness by modifying the amount of vanilla syrup or sauces.
- This recipe is perfect as a cold, caffeinated treat for hot days or when you desire a sweet espresso beverage.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Dutch Bros, Picture Perfect, espresso, chocolate milk, iced coffee, blended coffee drink, whipped cream, caramel drizzle, chocolate drizzle

