Homemade Dunkin' Protein Refresher Recipe

When the Dunkin’ Protein Refreshers was introduced it was a game-changer—combining vibrant fruity flavors with a satisfying protein boost.

Table of Contents

How to make Dunkin’ Protein Refresher

Dunkin’ Protein Refresher is a new high-protein version of Dunkin’s classic Refresher drinks that the coffee and donut chain recently added to its winter menu.

Ingredients

For Mango Refreshers: Use mango juice, mango puree, or a tropical juice blend.
For Strawberry Refreshers: Use strawberry juice or a mix of strawberry puree with water for a lighter flavor.
Unsweetened almond milk
Green Tea or Coconut Water (Optional):
Add honey
Ice Cubes
Fresh or frozen fruit: Mango chunks, strawberries, or mixed berries to boost the flavor.
Lemon or lime juice: A splash can brighten the overall taste.

Instructions to Make It

Step 1: Brew and chill green tea if you are using it as part of your base. Alternatively, pour your coconut water or cold juice into a mixing cup. Stir in your protein milk or protein powder (if using powder, make sure it’s fully dissolved for a smooth texture).

Step 2: Add 3-4 tablespoons of mango or strawberry juice (depending on your flavor preference) to the liquid base. Adjust this quantity based on how strong you want the fruit flavor to be. If you’d like a slightly sweeter drink, stir in 1-2 teaspoons of your chosen sweetener.

Tips for Perfecting Your Protein Refresher

Here are a few additional tips to make sure your drink is just as good (if not better) than your go-to Dunkin’ order:

Use High-Quality Protein Powder: Choose a powder that blends smoothly and doesn’t leave an aftertaste. Vanilla or unflavored varieties tend to work best.
Fresh vs. Pre-Made: For the freshest flavor, puree your own mango or strawberry and strain it for a smooth juice. Otherwise, store-bought options like Simply Mango Juice or Naked Juice work well too.
Layer Your Drink: For an Instagram-worthy presentation, pour the protein milk mixture into a glass first, then slowly add the fruit juice. This creates a stunning two-tone effect.
Experiment with Flavors: Not a fan of mango or strawberry? Swap in other fruit juices like peach, pineapple, or passionfruit. Mixing flavors is encouraged!
Stay Balanced: Too thick? Add extra green tea or coconut water to thin it out. Too sweet? Add a splash of lemon juice for tartness.

What to serve with

The Dunkin’ Protein Refresher is a refreshing, protein-packed drink that’s perfect on its own—but pairing it with the right food can elevate your snack or mealtime to a whole new level.

a. Egg Bites or Mini Omelets: Egg bites (like the ones from Starbucks) or freshly made mini omelets are protein-packed and perfectly portable. The savory, rich texture of eggs pairs well with the sweet, fruity flavors of your Refresher for a balanced start to the day. Add ingredients like spinach, cheese, or turkey bacon for variety.

b. Greek Yogurt Parfait with Granola: A yogurt parfait layered with fresh fruit, crunchy granola, and a drizzle of honey complements the tropical fruitiness of the Dunkin’ Protein Refresher. Use the same fruit flavors in the parfait—mango or strawberries—for a perfect flavor pairing.

c. Whole-Grain Toast with Nut Butter and Banana: Whole-grain toast spread with almond or peanut butter, and topped with banana slices, adds a dose of healthy carbs, fats, and sweetness. This hearty snack pairs beautifully with your Dunkin’ Protein Refresher and keeps you full longer.

d. Muffins or Scones: Try pairing your Protein Refresher with a homemade or store-bought muffin or scone. Classic flavors like blueberry, lemon, or tropical banana-nut complement the fruity notes of the drink. Opt for healthier versions made with whole grains to keep your meal balanced.

Ingredients Substitutes

Recreating Dunkin’s Protein Refresher at home is as fun as it is delicious, but what if you don’t have all the exact ingredients on hand? The good news is that the recipe is highly customizable, and you can use a variety of substitutes to suit your dietary preferences, taste, or pantry inventory.

1. Flavored Juice Choices

The fruity flavor of the Dunkin’ Protein Refresher comes from mango or strawberry juice, but there are plenty of substitutes to fit your desired taste.

Mango Juice Substitute:

Tropical Juice Blends: Use store-bought blends like a tropical mix with mango, pineapple, and orange juice.
Homemade Puree: Blend fresh or frozen mangoes with a little water for an even fresher flavor.
Peach or Apricot Juice: These have a similar sweet, tropical vibe as mango and work just as well.

Strawberry Juice Substitute:

Mixed Berry Juice: A blend of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries can add depth to the flavor.
Homemade Strawberry Puree: Blend fresh or frozen strawberries with a bit of water for a natural juice alternative.
Cherry Juice or Pomegranate Juice: These add a tangy flavor that pairs nicely with the protein base.

General Substitutions:

Pineapple Juice: Adds a tropical brightness that works for both mango- and strawberry-flavored Refreshers.
Watermelon Juice: For a hydrating and refreshing twist, watermelon juice is a great summer substitute.

2. Protein Milk or Protein Powder Substitutes

The signature aspect of Dunkin’s Protein Refreshers is the protein boost. If you’re out of protein milk or prefer to try something else, here are substitutes:

Protein Milk Substitutes:

Almond Milk: Use unsweetened almond milk as a base. It has a mild flavor that works with fruity Refreshers.
Oat Milk: Creamy and neutral, oat milk is a popular alternative that blends well with juices.
Coconut Milk: For an extra tropical twist, use light coconut milk or coconut water.
Soy Milk: High in protein, soy milk is a great nondairy replacement for protein shakes or protein milk.

Protein Powder Substitutes:

Greek Yogurt: Blend in a tablespoon or two of plain or vanilla Greek yogurt for a natural protein boost. It works especially well if you’re blending the drink rather than shaking it.
Collagen Powder: This tasteless, dissolvable powder is a great protein substitute for a smoother texture without any milky consistency.
Plant-Based Protein Powder: If you’re vegan or prefer plant-based options, try pea protein, hemp protein, or brown rice protein for a clean protein source.
Ready-To-Drink Protein Shakes: Premixed shakes like Premier Protein or Muscle Milk can double as your protein base while adding delicious complementary flavors.

3. Green Tea or Coconut Water Alternatives

Green tea is used in Dunkin’s Refreshers for a caffeine boost and subtle bitterness, while coconut water provides hydration and a tropical vibe. Here are some substitutes:

Green Tea Substitutes:

Matcha Powder: Dissolve 1/2 teaspoon of matcha powder in water for a stronger green tea flavor.
Herbal Tea Infusions: Try fruity herbal teas like hibiscus, berry blends, or lemon tea for a refreshing, caffeine-free option.
Black Tea: If you don’t have green tea, black tea can be substituted for a similar energy boost and a slightly deeper flavor.
Iced Tea: Use ready-made iced teas (unsweetened preferred) as a quick, convenient substitute.

Coconut Water Substitutes:

Filtered Water: If hydration is all you’re looking for, plain filtered or mineral water works just fine.
Sparkling Water: For a refreshing, fizzy twist, try a sparkling water base. Look for lightly flavored versions to enhance the drink.
Sports Drinks: Low-sugar sports drinks (like Gatorade Zero) can mimic the hydrating qualities and add a hint of flavor.

Final Thoughts

Making your own Dunkin’ Protein Refresher at home means you’re in full control of the ingredients, flavors, and nutritional profile. From choosing the juice base to getting creative with protein options and sweeteners, these substitutions allow you to craft a drink that’s not only similar to Dunkin’s version but personalized to your exact tastes and needs.

More Shakes Recipes:

[penci_recipe]

Dunkin' Recipes

Homemade Dunkin’ Protein Refresher Recipe