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Copycat Dunkin’ Mango Protein Refresher Recipe

by Tessy

Dunkin’ Mango Protein Refresher has quickly become a standout choice for anyone looking for a tropical treat with a healthy twist.

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How to make Dunkin’ Mango Protein Refresher

Dunkin’ Mango Protein Refresher is a new seasonal drink at Dunkin’ that’s part of the chain’s 2026 winter menu featuring protein‑boosted beverages.

Ingredients

For the Mango Base:

  • 1 cup mango juice (For an authentic tropical taste, opt for 100% mango juice or a mango nectar.)
  • ½ cup coconut water (Adds hydration and a subtle tropical undertone, just like Dunkin’s drinks.)
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice (optional – for a tangy twist to balance the sweetness).

For the Protein Addition:

  • ½ cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk (or substitute with oat milk or any plant-based milk of your choice).
  • 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (Look for plant-based or whey protein depending on your dietary preferences; vanilla complements the mango flavor beautifully.)
  • 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup (optional – adjust to your taste if you want added sweetness.)
  • 1 cup of ice cubes (For that frosty, refreshing experience!)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Base: In a blender, combine the mango juice, coconut water, and lime juice (if using). Blend for a few seconds to ensure everything mixes evenly.
  2. Add the Protein: Add the unsweetened almond milk and one scoop of vanilla protein powder to the blender. Blend again until the protein powder fully dissolves into the liquid base. This step ensures the drink gets its creamy texture while maintaining its mango-forward flavor.
  3. Frosty and Refreshing: Add the ice cubes to the blender and blend on high until the drink becomes smooth and frothy. You can adjust the amount of ice based on how thick or smooth you like your refresher.
  4. Taste and Sweeten (Optional): Before serving, taste the drink. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, add honey or agave syrup and blend for another few seconds.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Pour your Mango Protein Refresher into a tall glass or tumbler. You can garnish it with a slice of fresh mango or a lime wedge for an extra-special touch. Pop in a straw, and you’re ready to sip!

Tips for Making the Perfect Mango Protein Refresher

  • Customize Your Protein: If vanilla protein powder isn’t your thing, you can experiment with unflavored or even mango-flavored protein powders for an extra tropical punch.
  • Control the Sweetness: Depending on your mango juice or nectar, the natural sweetness might already be enough. Taste as you go and adjust the sweetness with honey or agave to your liking.
  • Ditch the Blender for Simplicity: If you’re in a hurry, skip the blending step. Mix the mango juice, protein powder, coconut water, and almond milk in a shaker bottle with ice. Shake vigorously until you get a nice, frothy mixture.
  • Add Fresh Fruit: Throw in frozen mango chunks for a thicker, smoothie-like refresher. This also amps up the natural mango flavor.
  • Make It Iced: For a quicker version, skip the blending process altogether and serve over ice. Simply whisk or shake the protein powder into the mango juice mixture until smooth.

What to serve with

Dunkin’ Mango Protein Refresher is a drink that bursts with tropical flavors and delivers a creamy yet refreshing experience. While it can absolutely be enjoyed as a standalone treat, pairing it with the right food can take your sipping experience to the next level.

  • Smoothie Bowl or Tropical Parfait: Try serving the mango drink alongside a tropical smoothie bowl or a yogurt parfait layered with fresh mango chunks, pineapple, granola, and shredded coconut. The combination of creamy textures and tropical flavors ties seamlessly with the Dunkin’ Mango Protein Refresher.
  • Coconut or Mango Pancakes: Mango or coconut pancakes (or regular pancakes topped with fresh mango slices) provide a tropical breakfast companion. Drizzle some honey and a sprinkle of unsweetened coconut flakes for the ultimate tropical touch.
  • Avocado Toast with a Kick: Pair the refresher with avocado toast topped with chili flakes or a squeeze of lime. The creaminess of the avocado and the hint of spiciness balance the fruity sweetness of the Dunkin’ Mango Protein Refresher.
  • Egg Muffins or Mini Frittatas: For a savory twist, serve the refresher with protein-packed egg muffins filled with spinach, tomato, or bell peppers. The drink’s sweet, fruity flavor contrasts nicely with these savory bites.

Ingredients Substitutes

If you’re looking to replicate Dunkin’s Mango Protein Refresher but find yourself without certain ingredients—or would like to modify the recipe to suit your personal tastes or dietary needs—you’ve come to the right place! The beauty of making this at home is its versatility.

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1. Mango Juice Substitutes

The mango juice is essential for achieving that tropical flavor, but there are easy swaps if you don’t have mango juice readily available.

  • Mango Nectar: If you can’t find regular mango juice, mango nectar is a sweeter alternative. Keep in mind that it can be a bit thick and sugary, so you may want to dilute it slightly with water or coconut water.
  • Orange Juice/Blend: A great alternative is 100% orange juice. While it doesn’t taste exactly like mango, it provides citrusy brightness that complements the refresher’s overall vibe. You can also blend it with some frozen mango puree or chunks for a closer taste and texture.
  • Mango Purée: Blend fresh or frozen mango pieces with a splash of water until smooth. This works perfectly in place of mango juice and may give your drink a thicker consistency.
  • Peach Juice or Pineapple Juice: Peach or pineapple juice offers a fruity, tropical flavor that works similarly to mango, though it will slightly change the flavor profile.

2. Coconut Water Substitutes

Coconut water adds mild sweetness and a tropical touch while enhancing hydration. If coconut water isn’t for you, here are alternative options:

  • Regular Water with a Splash of Lime or Lemon Juice: For a light, subtle flavor, use regular water and add a squeeze of citrus to match the brightness of coconut water.
  • Flavored Water: Try a lightly flavored water (like those with tropical or citrus flavors) for a refreshing base.
  • Unsweetened Green Tea or Herbal Tea: A mild tea base, like iced green tea, can replace coconut water while providing a healthy and aromatic twist. Opt for fruity tea blends for the best flavor pairing.
  • Coconut Milk: For a creamier texture and coconut flavor, dilute a small amount of coconut milk with water and use it as your base.

3. Lime Juice Substitutes (Optional)

Lime juice is included for a refreshing zing, but if you’re out of limes or want to try something different, consider these options:

  • Lemon Juice: Lemon juice provides a similar tartness and brightness to the drink. Just use it sparingly as it can be slightly more tangy than lime juice.
  • Orange or Grapefruit Juice: A splash of either adds a citrusy kick, but it also sweetens the drink slightly compared to lime.
  • Citric Acid: A tiny pinch of citric acid (a common ingredient in powdered form) can mimic the tanginess of lime juice without altering the flavor in a major way.

4. Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Milk Substitutes

Almond milk adds a creamy texture and enhances the protein refresher, but there are plenty of alternatives depending on your dietary preferences.

  • Oat Milk: Oat milk has a naturally creamy texture and is a popular plant-based milk substitute. Its mild sweetness pairs wonderfully with the tropical flavors.
  • Soy Milk: Higher in protein than almond milk, soy milk is an excellent, creamy and neutral-flavored substitute.
  • Cow’s Milk (Dairy): If you don’t follow a dairy-free diet, regular milk (skim, 2%, or whole) can be used in place of almond milk.
  • Coconut Milk (Carton): Coconut milk in a carton (not the canned variety) adds creaminess and enhances the tropical, coconut flavor of the refresher.
  • Rice Milk: Rice milk has a thinner consistency but a subtle sweetness, making it another suitable alternative.

Final Thoughts

Serving Dunkin’ Mango Protein Refresher with delicious, complementary foods elevates the experience from just a drink to a satisfying meal or snack combo. 

More Dunkin’ Recipes:

Copycat Dunkin' Mango Protein Refresher Recipe

Dunkin' Mango Protein Refresher

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Serves: 4 Prep Time: Cooking Time:
Nutrition facts: 300 calories 0 gram fat
Rating: 5.0/5
( 1 voted )

Ingredients

For the Mango Base:

  • 1 cup mango juice 
  • ½ cup coconut water
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice

For the Protein Addition:

  • ½ cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk 
  • 1 scoop vanilla protein powder 
  • 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
  • 1 cup of ice cubes

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Base: In a blender, combine the mango juice, coconut water, and lime juice (if using). Blend for a few seconds to ensure everything mixes evenly.
  2. Add the Protein: Add the unsweetened almond milk and one scoop of vanilla protein powder to the blender. Blend again until the protein powder fully dissolves into the liquid base. This step ensures the drink gets its creamy texture while maintaining its mango-forward flavor.
  3. Frosty and Refreshing: Add the ice cubes to the blender and blend on high until the drink becomes smooth and frothy. You can adjust the amount of ice based on how thick or smooth you like your refresher.
  4. Taste and Sweeten (Optional): Before serving, taste the drink. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, add honey or agave syrup and blend for another few seconds.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Pour your Mango Protein Refresher into a tall glass or tumbler. You can garnish it with a slice of fresh mango or a lime wedge for an extra-special touch. Pop in a straw, and you’re ready to sip!

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