The Rise and Disappearance of the Dunkin' Energy Punch
The blue monster drink was officially known as the Blue Raspberry Dunkin' Energy Punch and was a sensation during its limited run in 2017. The drink began as a creative collaboration among a few New Hampshire franchisees before being rolled out nationwide due to its popularity. Its key differentiator was the inclusion of an entire 16-ounce can of Monster Energy, giving it a significant caffeine kick. This combination of a powerful energy drink with Dunkin's sweet, fruity flavorings created an explosive new option that drew significant customer attention.
Unlike traditional blended frozen beverages like the Coolatta, the Energy Punch was served simply over ice. This made for a less-sweet, more straightforward energy-drink experience with a fruity twist. The intense blue color came from the Blue Raspberry syrup, which blended perfectly with the Monster Energy base to create the iconic, eye-catching visual. In select markets, including Metro New York, Dunkin' even offered a version powered by NOS® Energy Drink.
However, like many fast-food innovations, the Dunkin' Energy Punch was a limited-time offering and was eventually removed from the menu. Its absence left a void for many fans who still remember and crave its unique flavor and energy boost. While the official blue monster drink is gone, its flavor profile remains a popular request among Dunkin' regulars who use 'secret menu' hacks to get a similar experience. The evolution of Dunkin's menu, with a greater focus on Refreshers and other coffee alternatives, has provided a new playground for creating similar energizing drinks.
Deconstructing the Discontinued Drink
The original Blue Raspberry Dunkin' Energy Punch was a straightforward but potent concoction. Here is what was in the cup:
- Monster Energy: A full 16-ounce can served as the energy-rich base.
- Blue Raspberry Syrup: The distinct flavor and electric blue color came from this proprietary syrup.
- Ice: The entire mixture was served over a cup of ice for a chilling effect.
The resulting beverage offered a sweet, tangy blue raspberry flavor with the unmistakable undertones of a Monster energy drink, providing a significant caffeine boost that was stronger than a typical cup of Dunkin' coffee.
How to Recreate the Blue Monster Drink Today
While Dunkin' no longer serves the Energy Punch, you can get close to the original flavor profile by knowing the right ingredients and asking for a custom order. These "secret menu" hacks leverage current menu items to pay homage to the old favorite. A popular approach involves using the Refreshers line as a base and adding flavor shots.
Ocean Water Refresher This off-menu item is a popular recreation, blending blue raspberry and coconut for a tropical, vibrant drink.
- Order a lemonade. This will serve as your tart and refreshing base.
- Add flavor shots. Ask for 2 pumps of blue raspberry and 3 pumps of coconut shots.
- Request cold foam. For a creamy finish that adds a delightful texture, ask for sweet cream cold foam on top.
Cotton Candy Coolatta Hack For those who prefer a blended, sweeter take on a blue drink, this is a well-known alternative that uses blue raspberry to achieve a fun flavor profile.
- Order a Vanilla Bean Coolatta. This provides the frozen, creamy base.
- Add a twist. Ask for blue raspberry syrup and vanilla shots blended in. The number of pumps can be adjusted to your sweetness preference.
- Include cream. Ensure the barista uses cream instead of milk for that signature rich texture.
Comparison: Legacy Drink vs. Modern Hacks
| Feature | Original Blue Monster Drink (Dunkin' Energy Punch) | Modern Recreation (e.g., Ocean Water Refresher) |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | Discontinued; Limited Time Offer (2017) | Available via 'secret menu' hacks using current ingredients |
| Energy Source | Full 16 oz can of Monster Energy | Green tea extract and B vitamins from Refreshers |
| Flavor Profile | Intense energy drink flavor with blue raspberry fruit | Customizable; often lemon-lime or lemonade base with syrups |
| Texture | Served over ice | Varies; can be iced (Refresher) or blended (Coolatta hack) |
| Caffeine Content | High (approx. 160 mg+) | Moderate (approx. 99 mg per medium Refresher) |
Conclusion
The "blue monster drink" was a memorable but short-lived phenomenon on the Dunkin' menu, defined by its blend of Blue Raspberry flavor and a full can of Monster Energy. Its discontinuation has prompted Dunkin' enthusiasts to devise creative ways to mimic the flavor using current menu items, from lemonade-based Refreshers to modified Coolattas. While the original beverage will not be returning, the spirit of this vibrant, energetic drink lives on through these popular and customizable hacks.
: https://news.dunkindonuts.com/blog/dunkin-energy-punch : https://cookingpanda.com/blogs/food-news/dunkin-donuts-new-punch-is-actually-an-energy-drink-photos : https://news.dunkindonuts.com/blog/dunkin-energy-punch : https://www.pressenterprise.com/2017/07/29/dunkin-donuts-ramps-up-the-energy-level-with-monster-punch/ : https://cookingpanda.com/blogs/food-news/dunkin-donuts-new-punch-is-actually-an-energy-drink-photos : https://www.dountsmenu.onl/dunkin-refreshers/ : https://www.lemon8-app.com/@mayasmith9098/7484310463958745646?region=us : https://www.lemon8-app.com/@crazycassie440/7458307601290248746?region=us : https://www.facebook.com/groups/dunkinworld/posts/9972622546085969/
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the blue monster drink at Dunkin' Donuts called?
The drink was called the "Dunkin' Energy Punch Powered by Monster Energy" and featured a blue raspberry flavor.
Is the Dunkin' blue monster drink still available?
No, the Dunkin' Energy Punch was a limited-time offer in 2017 and is no longer available on the official menu.
What was in the original Blue Raspberry Dunkin' Energy Punch?
The drink was made by combining one 16-ounce can of Monster Energy with a Blue Raspberry fruited flavor and served over ice.
How can I order a similar blue drink at Dunkin' today?
One popular method is to order a lemonade with 2 pumps of blue raspberry and 3 coconut shots, topped with sweet cream cold foam.
What are the main ingredients in a Dunkin' Refresher with blue raspberry?
A modern blue raspberry Refresher often uses a base of lemonade, green tea extract, and vitamin blend, with blue raspberry flavor shots added.
Can I make a drink that tastes like the old blue monster at home?
Yes, you can recreate a similar taste at home by mixing a Monster Energy drink with blue raspberry syrup and serving it over ice.
Did Dunkin' use other energy drinks besides Monster?
Yes, in select markets, Dunkin' offered a version of the Energy Punch powered by NOS® Energy Drink.
