Salma Hayek Pinault Shines Again in Kahlúa's New Campaign Featuring Caramel Swirl Liqueur
Salma Hayek Pinault Celebrates Creativity in Latest Kahlúa Campaign
Salma Hayek Pinault, the prominent Academy Award-nominated actress, producer, and director, is making a stylish return to the Kahlúa brand with a vibrant new campaign. This time, she's bringing a delightful twist to the spotlight—a caramel swirl liqueur, dubbed Kahlunkin'. This fresh take showcases Kahlúa’s collaboration with Dunkin', presenting an enticing mix of flavors that promises to tease the palate.
The campaign, creatively directed by Rodrigo Valdes and crafted by Wieden + Kennedy London, unfolds like a telenovela, embracing the bold and playful spirit characteristic of Kahlúa. The spot opens with a casual living room scene where a creamy liquid that closely resembles Kahlúa is curiously poured. Suddenly, the door bursts open as Salma confidently strides in, declaring the liquid is not what it seems. To everyone's surprise, the culprit is revealed to be an unsuspecting individual dressed in a Dunkin' coffee cup costume, and thus the excitement of Kahlunkin' is born! This playful narrative creates a sense of mystery, leaving viewers to question, “Who Is In The Cup?”
The conceptualization of Kahlunkin' combines Kahlúa’s signature coffee and rum blend with Dunkin's delightful caramel swirl and real cream. The term itself has taken on a life of its own, reflecting how two iconic brands unite to create something refreshingly unexpected and a touch whimsical. As Salma shares, “It was such a joy to celebrate moments of connection with Kahlúa once again, plus a wink of Dunkin' humor along the way. I think people will feel the energy and playfulness we felt while shooting.”
In addition to the compelling narrative, Kahlúa is planning an impressive multi-channel campaign to promote Kahlunkin'. The partnership with NBCUniversal will elevate awareness across various broadcasting platforms, including appearances on Bravo’s Watch What Happens Live on October 23, 2025, at 10 p.m. EST, where audiences can gain insight into the mysterious cup.
To fully embrace the launch of Kahlunkin', Kahlúa will also be present at renowned food and beverage festivals, including the New York City Wine & Food Festival and ChainFest LA, ensuring everyone gets a taste of this exciting new offering.
On October 21, from 2-7 PM, a unique pop-up experience will occur at Grand Central Terminal's Graybar Passage in New York City. Patrons aged 21 and over will be among the first to enjoy the creamy Kahlunkin' paired perfectly with Dunkin's MUNCHKINS® Donut Hole Treats. This event is a fantastic opportunity for fans to immerse themselves in the playful spirit of Kahlúa and Dunkin'.
Caroline Begley, Kahlúa's Vice President of Marketing, expressed enthusiasm about reuniting with Salma for this campaign, stating, “She kicks down the door again as the Kahlúa authority, while bringing a level of glamour to everything she does.” This synergy showcases the perfect match between the two brands, merging Kahlúa’s dramatic flair with Dunkin’s humor.
Current viewers can watch the 30 and 15-second spots of the It's Kahlunkin' campaign across various streaming platforms, social media, and audio channels. Participants are invited to guess “Who Is In The Cup” on Kahlúa's website and Instagram for a chance to win exciting Kahlúa and Dunkin’ prizes, including a year’s supply of free Dunkin' coffee.
Craig van Niekerk, Global Vice President of Marketing for Kahlúa, emphasized their vision for the brand, stating, “We are taking that energy up a notch—stirring up the cream liqueur category with a splash of drama and a whole lot of playfulness.” The fusion of both brands presents a festive opportunity for consumers, making Kahlúa Dunkin' Caramel Swirl Cream Liqueur available nationwide for all to enjoy. This liqueur can be savored neat, chilled, or over ice, revealing a world of flavor when paired with Dunkin' MUNCHKINS® Donut Hole Treat garnishes.
In sum, Kahlúa’s playful approach continues to enrich the spirits and retail market while reminding audiences of the joys of connection, creativity, and the unexpected delights that can emerge when two beloved brands join forces. Explore more at Kahlua.com and follow Kahlúa on Instagram @Kahlua. Drink responsibly and enjoy the essence of Kahlunkin'!