Dunkin’ Sabrina’s Strawberry Refresher Recipe

Hey there, fellow refreshment seekers! If you’re like me, there’s nothing quite like discovering that perfect drink to brighten up your day, especially during those warm, sunny afternoons. Recently, I found myself craving something sweet, fruity, and irresistibly refreshing, and guess what? Dunkin’s Sabrina Strawberry Refresher checks all the boxes.

What Is Dunkin’ Sabrina’s Strawberry Refresher?

Dunkin’s Sabrina Strawberry Refresher, officially named Sabrina’s Strawberry Daydream Refresher, is a special summer beverage developed in collaboration with singer Sabrina Carpenter. This iced, creamy drink features a blend of sweet strawberry flavor, oat milk, and cold foam on top.

How To Make Dunkin’ Sabrina’s Strawberry Refresher

You’ll be thrilled to know you can recreate this dreamy drink at home! This sweet, creamy, and fruity delight combines refreshing Dunkin’ Sabrina’s Strawberry Refresher flavors with oat milk and a frothy finish. Follow this step-by-step guide to whip up your very own homemade version.

Ingredients

For The Strawberry Base:

1/2 cup of white grape juice (or green tea if you prefer a caffeine boost similar to Dunkin’s Refreshers)

1/4 cup of strawberry puree or syrup (you can use store-bought or make your own by blending strawberries with sugar and a splash of water)

2-3 fresh strawberries, sliced (optional for garnish)

1/2 teaspoon lemon juice (for a subtle citrusy tang)

For The Creamy Component:

1/2 cup oat milk (Dunkin uses oat milk for a smooth, creamy texture, but you can substitute with almond or coconut milk if preferred)

For The Cold Foam Topping:

1/4 cup heavy cream or oat creamer

1 teaspoon vanilla syrup or sugar (to sweeten the foam)

Optional Add-Ins:

Ice cubes

A handful of dragon fruit pieces or freeze-dried strawberry slices for extra flair

Pink food coloring (if you’d like to enhance the pink color for that Instagram-worthy look)

Instructions:

Prepare The Strawberry Refresher Base:

In a small pitcher, combine the white grape juice (or green tea) with strawberry puree and a splash of lemon juice.

Stir or whisk well to ensure the flavors blend evenly. Optionally, you can add in a few slices of fresh strawberries for extra bursts of flavor.

Set the finished base aside.

Add The Creamy Element:

Fill your favorite glass with ice cubes, leaving room at the top.

Pour the strawberry base over the ice, filling the glass about 3/4 of the way.

Slowly add the oat milk to the glass for that signature creamy layer. You’ll notice it creates a swirling “daydream” effect just like what you see at Dunkin’.

Make The Cold Foam Topping:

In a small bowl or milk frother, combine heavy cream (or oat creamer) with vanilla syrup.

Froth the mixture until it becomes light and foamy. If you don’t have a frother, you can whisk it by hand or use a mason jar seal it tight and shake vigorously.

Spoon the cold foam on top of the drink, letting it float over the creamy strawberry layer.

Garnish And Serve:

Garnish your creation with a few slices of strawberries, a sprinkle of freeze-dried dragon fruit, or even a mint leaf for a fresh touch.

Pop in a reusable straw, stir it, and enjoy your homemade Sabrina Strawberry Refresher.

Tips for Perfect Dunkin’ Sabrina’s Strawberry Refresher

Use Fresh Ingredients: While store-bought strawberry syrup works in a pinch, using fresh strawberry puree can make the drink taste even more vibrant.

Customize the Sweetness: Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less strawberry syrup or vanilla to suit your taste.

Chill Your Ingredients: The flavors meld much better when the ingredients are cold, so ensure your oat milk and juice are well-refrigerated beforehand.

Experiment with Tea Bases: If you miss the subtle caffeine kick of Dunkin’s Refreshers, use green tea as the base instead of grape juice.

Make Ahead: You can prep the strawberry base in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days, so it’s ready to serve whenever you need a quick pick-me-up.

Storage Tips for Dunkin’ Sabrina’s Strawberry Refresher

Strawberry Base Storage: The strawberry base (juice, puree, and lemon juice mixture) can be stored in an airtight container or mason jar in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a good shake or stir before using, as separation is natural.

Cold Foam Storage: Fresh cold foam is best made right before serving, but you can store frothed cream in the fridge for up to 24 hours. It will lose some volume, so give it a quick re-froth before topping your drink.

Complete Drink Storage: If you’ve already assembled the drink, it’s best consumed immediately. The ice will dilute the flavors over time, and the cold foam will settle. However, you can store it in the fridge for 2-3 hours if needed.

Freezing Tips: Freeze leftover strawberry puree in ice cube trays and use them in place of regular ice cubes to keep your drink cold without diluting it. These strawberry ice cubes last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Batch Prep: For parties or meal prep, make a large batch of the strawberry base and store it in a pitcher. When ready to serve, just add ice, oat milk, and fresh cold foam to individual glasses.

What to Serve with Dunkin’ Sabrina’s Strawberry Refresher

Light Breakfast Options:

Fresh Pastries:

Croissants: A buttery, flaky croissant pairs well with the Dunkin’ Sabrina’s Strawberry Refresher drink’s sweetness. Add a bit of strawberry jam on the side to complement the flavors.

Danish Pastries: Fruit-filled Danish pastries (especially ones with strawberries or cream cheese) enhance the fruity and creamy notes of the refresher.

Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt, granola, and fresh strawberries or mixed berries to create a parfait that mirrors the fruity and creamy profile of the Dunkin’ Sabrina’s Strawberry Refresher. Sprinkle with chia seeds or drizzle honey for extra flavor.

Muffins:

Strawberry Muffins: The Dunkin’ Sabrina’s Strawberry Refresher flavor pairs beautifully with strawberry muffins or fruit-filled muffins. You can also try lemon poppy seed muffins for a slight citrus contrast.

Chocolate Chip Muffins: The mild chocolate sweetness complements the creaminess of the Dunkin’ Sabrina’s Strawberry Refresher without overwhelming it.

Brunch Favorites:

Waffles Or Pancakes:

Strawberry Topped Waffles/Pancakes: Add fresh strawberries, a drizzle of maple syrup, and perhaps some whipped cream to your Dunkin’ Sabrina’s Strawberry Refresher.

Chocolate Drizzle Pancakes: Chocolate complements the strawberry notes without overshadowing the drink.

Savory Egg Dishes:

Egg and Cheese Sandwiches: Dunkin’s own savory egg and cheese sandwiches are a perfect contrast to the fruity Dunkin’ Sabrina’s Strawberry Refresher.

Spinach and Feta Quiche: A slice of quiche adds a touch of saltiness and richness to counterbalance the drink’s sweetness.

Fresh Fruit Salad: Prepare a bowl of mixed fresh fruits such as strawberries, kiwi, dragon fruit, mango, and blueberries. The natural sweetness of the fruits matches the flavors of the Sabrina Strawberry Refresher.

Sweet Treats For Snacks Or Dessert

Strawberry Shortcake: Enjoy the refresher alongside a classic strawberry shortcake made with layers of fluffy sponge cake, whipped cream, and fresh strawberries.

Macarons:

Strawberry Macarons: These delicate, bite-sized treats enhance the strawberry flavor.

Vanilla or Cream Macarons: Vanilla macarons echo the creamy oat milk base in the refresher.

Cookies:

Sugar Cookies: Simple sugar cookies pair nicely with the refresher without clashing with its flavors.

Strawberry-Filled Thumbprint Cookies: A sweet treat filled with strawberry jam provides a pop of complementary flavor.

Bagels with Cream Cheese: A lightly toasted bagel spread with cream cheese and topped with thinly sliced strawberries or smoked salmon provides a satisfying contrast to the sweetness of the refresher.

Additional Garnishes Or Side Ideas:

Chocolate-dipped strawberries: Serve these alongside or on a skewer in the drink itself.

Strawberry-flavored popcorn: A fun, light snack to enjoy with the refresher.

Cake Pops: Mini cake pops with strawberry or vanilla flavors are delightful companions to the fruity drink.

Ingredient Substitutes

Creating Dunkin’s Sabrina Strawberry Refresher at home is flexible and forgiving! Here are some great substitutes to customize the recipe based on what you have available or your dietary preferences.

1. White Grape Juice (For The Base)

Base ingredient: White grape juice provides a naturally sweet, mild flavor that doesn’t overpower the strawberry while adding body to the drink.

Substitutes:

Green Tea: Brew and chill green tea for a caffeine boost similar to Dunkin’s Refreshers. This adds a subtle, earthy flavor and makes the drink more energizing.

White Cranberry Juice: Offers a slightly tart, fruity base that complements the strawberry beautifully.

Apple Juice: A sweeter alternative that blends well with strawberry and is widely available.

Coconut Water: For a tropical, lighter twist with added electrolytes and natural sweetness.

Lemonade: Creates a tangier, citrus-forward version of the refresher.

2. Strawberry Puree or Syrup (For Flavor)

Base ingredient: Fresh strawberry puree or syrup gives the drink its signature sweet, fruity taste.

Substitutes:

Fresh Strawberries: Blend 1/2 cup of fresh or frozen strawberries with 1-2 tablespoons of sugar and a splash of water to make homemade puree.

Strawberry Jam: Use 2-3 tablespoons of strawberry jam mixed with a little water for a quick syrup substitute.

Freeze-Dried Strawberries: Crush freeze-dried strawberries into a powder and mix with water for concentrated strawberry flavor.

Raspberry or Mixed Berry Puree: Switch up the flavor with raspberries, blackberries, or a berry blend for a different take on the refresher.

Strawberry Flavoring or Extract: A few drops of strawberry extract mixed with simple syrup works in a pinch.

3. Oat Milk (For Creaminess)

Base ingredient: Oat milk provides a creamy, slightly sweet, dairy-free base that Dunkin uses in the original drink.

Substitutes:

Almond Milk: A lighter, nutty alternative that’s lower in calories. Works great if you prefer a less creamy texture.

Coconut Milk: Adds tropical richness and creaminess, perfect for a summery vibe.

Soy Milk: A protein-rich, creamy option that froths well for cold foam.

Regular Milk: Use whole milk, 2%, or skim milk if you’re not avoiding dairy.

Cashew Milk: Ultra-creamy and slightly sweet, cashew milk is excellent for a rich mouthfeel.

Macadamia Milk: A luxurious, buttery alternative that adds unique creaminess.

4. Heavy Cream (For Cold Foam)

Base ingredient: Heavy cream creates that fluffy, cloud-like cold foam topping.

Substitutes:

Oat Creamer: A dairy-free alternative that froths beautifully and maintains the oat milk theme.

Coconut Cream: The thick cream from the top of a chilled can of coconut milk froths well and adds tropical flavor.

Half-and-Half: Slightly lighter than heavy cream but still froths nicely.

Greek Yogurt: Mix a tablespoon of Greek yogurt with a splash of milk and froth for a tangy, protein-rich foam.

Whipped Cream: If you don’t have time to froth, just top with a dollop of regular whipped cream.

5. Vanilla Syrup (For Sweetness)

Base ingredient: Vanilla syrup sweetens the cold foam and adds aromatic flavor.

Substitutes:

Simple Syrup: Equal parts sugar and water heated until dissolved. It’s neutral and lets other flavors shine.

Honey: Dissolve honey in a bit of warm water for a natural, floral sweetness.

Maple Syrup: Adds a warm, caramel-like sweetness to the foam.

Agave Nectar: A mild, low-glycemic sweetener that dissolves easily.

Sugar: Use granulated sugar (about 1 teaspoon) mixed directly into the cream before frothing.

Vanilla Extract: Add 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract with a sweetener of your choice.

6. Lemon Juice (For Tang)

Base ingredient: Lemon juice adds a subtle citrus brightness that balances the sweetness.

Substitutes:

Lime Juice: Provides a similar tangy kick with a slightly different citrus profile.

Orange Juice: A sweeter, less tart option that adds fruity complexity.

Citric Acid: A tiny pinch of citric acid powder dissolved in water mimics the tartness of lemon juice.

Skip It: If you prefer a sweeter, less tangy drink, you can omit the lemon juice entirely.

Health Benefits

Green Tea Base:

Rich in Antioxidants: Green tea contains polyphenols and catechins, which may reduce oxidative stress in the body and help protect cells from damage.

Boosts Metabolism: Green tea is known to assist in increasing metabolic rate and may aid in weight management when consumed regularly.

Improves Mental Alertness: The moderate caffeine content in green tea can provide a gentle energy boost without the jittery feeling associated with other caffeinated drinks.

Supports Heart Health: Studies have linked green tea to lowering LDL cholesterol levels and improving cardiovascular health.

Strawberry Flavors:

Vitamin C Source: Strawberries are naturally high in vitamin C, which may help strengthen the immune system, promote skin health, and support collagen production for younger-looking skin.

Rich in Antioxidants: Strawberries contain anthocyanins and ellagic acid, which are compounds known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Supports Weight Management: Strawberries are low in calories and naturally sweet, making them a good alternative for sugary snacks. They also contain fiber, which can support digestion.

Coconut Milk (Optional Base):

Healthy Fats: Coconut milk contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which may provide quick energy and support cognitive function.

Promotes Skin Health: Coconut milk is rich in nutrients, such as lauric acid, which has antibacterial properties and may help maintain healthy skin.

Lactose-Free Alternative: A good option for those who are lactose intolerant or avoiding dairy products.

Hydration:

Since the drink is primarily made with water and served over ice, it can help maintain hydration levels throughout the day.

Hydration is essential for regulating body temperature, supporting organ function, and maintaining healthy skin.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 180

Total Fat: 8g

Saturated Fat: 5g

Trans Fat: 0g

Cholesterol: 25mg

Sodium: 40mg

Total Carbohydrates: 26g

Dietary Fiber: 1g

Sugars: 23g

Protein: 2g

Vitamin C: 35% Daily Value

Calcium: 8% Daily Value

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and will vary based on the specific brands of ingredients used and any substitutions made. Using green tea instead of grape juice adds about 25mg of caffeine. Substituting oat creamer for heavy cream in the cold foam will reduce calories and saturated fat significantly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this drink without a milk frother?

Absolutely! If you don’t have a milk frother, you can create cold foam by adding your cream and vanilla syrup to a mason jar with a tight-fitting lid. Shake vigorously for 30-60 seconds until it becomes light and foamy. Alternatively, you can whisk it by hand in a bowl for about 2-3 minutes, or use a regular blender on high speed for 15-20 seconds.

Is this drink caffeinated like the Dunkin version?

That depends on your base choice! If you use white grape juice, the drink will be caffeine-free. However, if you substitute green tea (like Dunkin’s actual Refreshers), you’ll get about 25-35mg of caffeine per serving, which is roughly a quarter of what’s in a cup of coffee. It’s a gentle energy boost without the jitters.

Can I make this vegan?

Yes! This recipe is easily made vegan by using oat milk (as specified) and substituting the heavy cream in the cold foam with oat creamer or coconut cream. Make sure your vanilla syrup doesn’t contain any animal-derived ingredients, or simply use maple syrup or agave as a sweetener.

How can I make the pink color more vibrant?

The natural strawberry puree will give you a light pink color, but if you want that Instagram-worthy bright pink, add 1-2 drops of pink or red food coloring to your strawberry base. Natural alternatives include adding a tablespoon of beet juice or using freeze-dried dragon fruit powder, which will give you a beautiful pink hue.

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Definitely! Frozen strawberries work wonderfully in this recipe. Simply thaw them first, then blend them into a puree. Frozen strawberries are often picked at peak ripeness and can actually be sweeter and more flavorful than out-of-season fresh berries. Plus, they’re more budget-friendly year-round.

How long does the cold foam last on top?

Fresh cold foam will hold its structure for about 15-20 minutes before it starts to settle into the drink. This is completely normal! For the best presentation, make the cold foam right before serving. If you’re making multiple drinks, prepare the bases first and add the foam just before serving each one.

Can I make this drink ahead for a party?

Yes, with some planning! Prepare the strawberry base up to 3 days in advance and store it in a pitcher in the fridge. When guests arrive, fill glasses with ice, pour the base, add oat milk, and top with freshly made cold foam. This way, each drink is fresh but you’ve done most of the work ahead of time.

What’s the difference between this and a regular strawberry smoothie?

While both feature strawberries, this refresher is lighter and more drink-like rather than thick and smoothie-like. It’s served over ice with distinct layers (juice base, oat milk, cold foam) and is more refreshing than filling. A smoothie would be blended with frozen fruit and typically much thicker in consistency.

Final Thoughts

The Dunkin Sabrina Strawberry Refresher is more than just a drink, it’s a burst of fruity sweetness and a refreshing escape for your taste buds. With its vibrant strawberry flavor and energy-boosting base options like green tea or creamy coconut milk, it’s a perfect companion for those who crave something light, hydrating, and flavorful. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, need an afternoon pick-me-up, or just want to treat yourself to something special, this copycat version delivers all the dreamy goodness of the original—right from your own kitchen.

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