Ranking 9 Sugar-Free Dunkin’ Drinks: A Taste Test Review

A stop at Dunkin’ is often the perfect way to kick off your day or revitalize your afternoon. While their menu has significantly expanded since the days of the Dunkaccino, options for those avoiding sugar have remained somewhat limited. Luckily, there are a few sugar-free beverages worth exploring without the need for elaborate ordering tricks.

After reviewing the chain’s nutritional information, I selected several appealing sugar-free drinks for this taste test. As a lifelong New Englander who frequents Dunkin’, I discovered that even among the limited choices, there are some delightful options to savor without sugar. Below, I present a ranking of the best sugar-free Dunkin’ drinks, from least to most enjoyable.

As an avid coffee drinker, cold brew coffee is usually my go-to choice. I was eager to see how Dunkin’s version held up, especially given that their establishment had recently undergone renovations, including a new tap system for iced beverages. However, my experience was unexpectedly disappointing. The cold brew had a strong, roasty flavor with a strange aftertaste that was jarring. It felt reminiscent of some artificial packaged coffees, and it seemed necessary to add flavor or cream to make it enjoyable.

Ordering this drink brought back a wave of nostalgia, as it was often my preferred choice during my younger years. However, this time around, the hazelnut and vanilla flavors were more subtle and balanced than I had anticipated. The vanilla stood out initially, while the hazelnut provided an aromatic finish. Yet, reminiscing too fondly may have skewed my taste perception, as it ultimately felt like an experience of mediocre coffee rather than a distinct flavor profile. While pleasant, I wouldn’t be rushing back for another round.

Growing up, I often preferred French vanilla ice coffee, but I was curious to see how simple vanilla compared. Opting for just vanilla offered a clear presentation of its flavor, without other flavors overpowering it. Even with only two pumps, the vanilla was pleasantly pronounced without tasting artificial. My companion found it surprising as well, making this a solid pick for those seeking a straightforward iced coffee experience.

My history with Dunkin’s hot coffee has been mixed, often enjoying it when hot but struggling with the taste as it cools. However, I was pleasantly surprised by how smooth and flavorful it was. The bitterness was subtle, making it approachable even without additives. The fresh brew provided a comforting balance, making it a viable option even for those chilly days.

I took a chance on Dunkin’s iced green tea during this tasting, as I had previously avoided ordering tea from the chain. To my surprise, the iced green tea closely resembled the homemade versions commonly enjoyed at home. It was refreshing and pleasant, although it could benefit from a flavor enhancement, such as lemon or raspberry syrup.

This drink piqued my curiosity as blueberry is a flavor that often pairs well with coffee. To my surprise, the blueberry and vanilla blended harmoniously without being overwhelming. The finish was pleasantly subtle, showcasing both flavors. I was also pleased by the freshness, which elevated the overall experience, making it one of the better combinations during this taste test.

Having grown more discerning about coffee, I decided to try Dunkin’s iced Americano for its fresh flavor. It stood apart from regular iced coffee, delivering a rich espresso taste with a hint of bitterness. This drink was brewed fresh, providing a comforting option when seeking something quick and reliable, though it doesn’t quite rival the offerings at my favorite coffee shop.

Opting for a more unique choice, I tried the Hibiscus Kiss Herbal Infusion. This caffeine-free tea turned out to be wonderfully refreshing, infused with a bright hibiscus flavor. Its lively taste made it difficult to believe it was sugar-free, and it offered a delightfully dry finish. I could see this becoming a go-to beverage to combat winter blues, even though it narrowly missed the top spot.

As a fan of unsweetened black iced tea, I was surprised I hadn’t tried Dunkin’s version before. The raspberry addition was delightful, adding a refreshing note without cloying sweetness. This drink will surely be my top choice for a hot day or as a revitalizing option during winter.

In selecting the drinks for this taste test, I exclusively focused on options containing zero total and added sugars, according to Dunkin’s nutritional guide. I explored various sugar-free flavor profiles and popular beverages while excluding any dairy products, as even skim milk contains sugar. I kept my ordering simple and opted for iced selections, which are generally favored by Dunkin’ patrons. Each drink was evaluated based on its flavor profile and the likelihood that I would reorder it.