Salma Hayek Pinault brings her signature flair to Kahlúa and Dunkin’s new caramel swirl liqueur, starring in the playful “It’s Kahlunkin’” campaign.
When Coffee Meets Drama — and Caramel
Salma Hayek Pinault’s Kahlúa and Dunkin’ might sound like a mouthful, but so is this delicious new twist on indulgence. The world’s No. 1 coffee liqueur, Kahlúa, has teamed up with Dunkin’ to launch its Kahlúa Dunkin’ Caramel Swirl Cream Liqueur — and the one and only Salma Hayek Pinault is back to stir up the drama.
In true telenovela style, the new “It’s Kahlunkin’” campaign isn’t just about flavor. It’s about flair — equal parts bold, playful, and irresistibly extra.
Directed by Rodrigo Valdes and created by Wieden + Kennedy London, the spot opens like a scene from a glamorous Latin soap: a mysterious pour, a kick of a door, and a dash of caramel chaos.
“It was such a joy to celebrate moments of connection with Kahlúa once again,
plus a wink of Dunkin’ humor along the way,”
Salma Hayek Pinault.
“I think people will feel the energy and playfulness we felt while shooting.”
Perfect Pairing: Coffee, Rum, and a Wink
This isn’t just a marketing mashup. It’s Kahlúa’s coffee and rum meeting Dunkin’s caramel swirl and cream, creating something the brand affectionately calls “Kahlunkin’.”
In the spot, Hayek plays the ultimate authority — the glamorous detective of all things dramatic and delicious — unraveling the mystery of Who Is in the Cup? The answer? A secret Dunkin’ twist that promises a flavor both luxurious and lighthearted.
If you’ve ever ordered an extra caramel swirl at 9 a.m. and called it self-care, this campaign gets you.
From Screen to the Scene
This fall, Kahlúa Dunkin’ Caramel Swirl Cream Liqueur is popping up in all the right places — from Bravo’s “Watch What Happens Live” (October 23 at 10 p.m. EST) to food and beverage festivals like the New York City Wine & Food Festival and ChainFest LA.
And if you happen to be in Grand Central Terminal, you can even step into a pop-up experience at Graybar Passage to sip, swirl, and snap your own caramel-drizzled content moment — MUNCHKINS® donut hole garnish optional (but strongly encouraged).
“She kicks down the door again as the Kahlúa authority, while bringing a level of glamour to everything she does,”
Caroline Begley
Vice President of Marketing for Kahlúa.
“Our new spot introducing Kahlunkin’ into the world of Kahlúa is no exception.”
Kahlúa’s Dramatic Comeback
Since 1936, Kahlúa has owned its title as the world’s leading coffee liqueur, blending 100% Arabica beans from Veracruz, Mexico, with rum and a sense of fun. Its latest chapter—with Hayek Pinault at the helm—feels like a full-circle moment for a brand that’s always embraced its roots in both flavor and drama.
Craig van Niekerk, Global VP of Marketing for Kahlúa, summed it up best:
“With It’s Kahlunkin’,
we’re taking that energy up a notch
stirring up the cream liqueur category
with a splash of drama and a whole lot of playfulness.
Partnering with Dunkin’ was a perfect match.”
Because honestly, if tequila has its moment in the sun, maybe it’s time for coffee liqueur to have its prime-time slot.
Drink It Like Salma Would
This isn’t your average nightcap. Kahlúa Dunkin’ Caramel Swirl Cream Liqueur was made for chilled glasses, late-night laughs, and Instagrammable moments that don’t take themselves too seriously. Enjoy it neat, over ice, or with Dunkin’ MUNCHKINS® for a sweet finish worthy of its own encore.
For those who like to blend culture and cocktails, it’s the drink equivalent of slipping into silk pajamas after a rooftop party — indulgent, smooth, and effortlessly cool.
Mini FAQ
Q: What is Kahlúa Dunkin’ Caramel Swirl Cream Liqueur?
A: A blend of Kahlúa’s signature coffee and rum with Dunkin’s caramel swirl flavor and real cream.
Q: Who directed the “It’s Kahlunkin’” campaign?
A: Rodrigo Valdes, with creative direction by Wieden + Kennedy London.
Q: Where can I buy it?
A: Available at major retailers nationwide. Visit Kahlua.com for details.
Swirl Up the Drama
Salma Hayek Pinault’s return to Kahlúa feels like a wink to all of us who know life’s too short for boring drinks — or boring ads. The “It’s Kahlunkin’” campaign proves that when two icons collide, the result can be as bold and creamy as a caramel swirl at midnight.
Raise your glass (or coffee cup) to the new classic. Because in the world of indulgence, a little drama never hurts.
