Smoothie King Gladiator Chocolate Coffee Recipe

Smoothie Kin Gladiator Chocolate Coffee is a creamy, high-protein smoothie made with cold brew, banana, and chocolate protein powder. This homemade copycat version mirrors the Smoothie King original in texture and flavor, delivering a rich chocolate taste with a subtle caffeine boost. Great for post-workout fuel or a quick breakfast.

Ingredients Needed for Gladiator Chocolate Coffee (Copycat)

• ¾ cup cold brew coffee (unsweetened): Provides mild caffeine and a smooth, roasted flavor just like Smoothie King’s cold brew.
• 1 medium ripe banana (frozen): Adds natural sweetness, creaminess, and fiber—mimicking their base texture.
• 1 scoop chocolate whey protein powder (25g): Replaces their Gladiator® Chocolate Protein blend with a similar rich chocolate flavor and high protein.
• 1 scoop unflavored or vanilla whey protein (20–25g): Balances macros and builds the full 45–46g protein target.
• 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder (optional): Boosts the chocolate profile without adding sugar.
• 1 cup ice cubes: Helps chill and thicken the smoothie to that signature frozen consistency.
• Pinch of sea salt (optional): Slightly enhances the chocolate-coffee flavor balance, especially since the original has 500mg sodium.

How To Make Gladiator Chocolate Coffee (Copycat Recipe)

1. Chill the Cold Brew: Make sure your coffee is fully chilled before blending for best texture and flavor.
2. Freeze the Banana: Use a frozen banana for a thicker, creamier consistency that mirrors Smoothie King’s texture.
3. Add to Blender: Combine cold brew, banana, chocolate protein powder, unflavored protein, cocoa (if using), ice, and a pinch of salt.
4. Blend Until Smooth: Blend on high speed for 30–45 seconds until the smoothie is thick, creamy, and frothy.
5. Adjust to Taste: Add more coffee for a stronger brew, or more ice for a colder, thicker shake.

Why This Homemade Version Matches the Original

This copycat was built to match the Smoothie King Gladiator Chocolate Coffee in both taste and performance. Here’s how:

• Uses cold brew + banana + chocolate protein just like the original formula
• Hits nearly identical macros (45g protein, 26g carbs, ~300 calories)
• No added sugar, just like Smoothie King
• Low-fat, high-protein profile using two clean whey scoops
• Optional cocoa + salt enhance the chocolate and match Smoothie King’s sodium balance

No commercial Gladiator® blend needed—this version nails the flavor and nutrients using real, accessible ingredients.

Recipe Tips & Smart Variations

• Make It Dairy-Free: Use a plant-based chocolate protein and almond milk cold brew. You’ll still hit similar macros with the right scoop.
• Low-Carb Version: Use only ½ banana and replace the rest with ½ avocado + monk fruit for sweetness.
• Mocha Boost: Add 1 tsp unsweetened cocoa + ½ tsp instant espresso for deeper mocha flavor.
• Smoother Texture Tip: If you don’t freeze the banana, add 1–2 extra ice cubes to keep it thick.
• Salt Balance Tip: A small pinch of sea salt sharpens the chocolate flavor and balances the cold brew.

How To Store This Gladiator Chocolate Coffee Smoothie

In the Fridge: Store up to 24 hours in a sealed container. Shake before drinking—may separate slightly but still creamy.

In the Freezer: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then re-blend for original texture.

Copycat vs Smoothie King Comparison

Feature	Smoothie King Original	Homemade Copycat
Calories	300	~305
Protein	46g	~45–47g
Sugar	11g	~11–12g (from banana)
Caffeine	89mg	~90mg
Cost	$6–$8	~$2.00–$2.50
Ingredients	Gladiator® + banana	Whole food + whey

The homemade version matches the flavor, protein, and texture—without any proprietary blends.

When To Enjoy This Smoothie

This smoothie is ideal after strength training, as a high-protein breakfast on-the-go, or when you need a coffee-fueled meal replacement without sugar crashes.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per 20 oz serving)

• Calories: ~305
• Carbs: 26g
• Protein: 45–47g
• Fat: 3.5g
• Sugar: ~11g
• Fibre: ~5g
• Sodium: ~480–500mg
• Caffeine: ~90mg