Smoothie King Gladiator® Chocolate Espresso Recipe

Smoothie King Gladiator Chocolate Espresso is a rich, high-protein smoothie made with real espresso, banana, and chocolate whey protein. This homemade copycat version mirrors the Smoothie King original in taste and texture, delivering a bold coffee punch and 46g of protein. Great for mornings when you need both caffeine and fuel.

Ingredients Needed for Gladiator Chocolate Espresso (Copycat)

• ¾ cup brewed espresso (chilled): Replaces cold brew with stronger, more concentrated coffee flavor just like the Smoothie King espresso blend.
• 1 medium frozen banana: Creates a creamy base and adds natural sweetness with fiber and potassium.
• 1 scoop chocolate whey protein powder (25g): Matches the Gladiator® Chocolate Protein flavor and richness.
• 1 scoop unflavored or vanilla whey protein (20–25g): Boosts protein content to 45g+ without changing taste.
• 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder (optional): Enhances chocolate depth to complement the espresso.
• 1 cup ice cubes: Thickens the drink and gives it the classic smoothie texture.
• Pinch of sea salt (optional): Helps bring out the chocolate and espresso flavors, just like the original’s 500mg sodium.

How To Make Gladiator Chocolate Espresso (Copycat Recipe)

1. Brew and Chill the Espresso: Use 2–3 shots of espresso or strong brewed coffee. Let it cool completely before using.
2. Freeze the Banana: A frozen banana gives the smoothie a thicker texture and natural creaminess.
3. Add to Blender: Combine espresso, frozen banana, chocolate protein, unflavored protein, cocoa (if using), ice, and salt (optional).
4. Blend Smooth: Blend for 45 seconds until completely creamy and smooth with no chunks.
5. Adjust Flavor or Strength: For stronger coffee taste, use an extra espresso shot. For thicker texture, add more ice.

Why This Homemade Version Matches the Original

This version was built to recreate Smoothie King’s Gladiator Chocolate Espresso almost exactly:

• Uses espresso instead of cold brew for stronger flavor and more caffeine
• Includes banana + chocolate protein to match the creamy body
• Hits ~46g protein with two simple whey scoops
• No added sugar, just natural sweetness from banana
• Cocoa + espresso combo builds deep mocha flavor
• Salt balances flavor and mirrors the 500mg sodium level

Recipe Tips & Smart Variations

• Make It Stronger: Add a 3rd espresso shot or use espresso ice cubes for extra caffeine and less dilution.
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based chocolate and vanilla protein with oat milk espresso.
• Low-Carb Option: Use ½ banana + ¼ avocado + monk fruit sweetener to keep texture but lower carbs.
• Dessert Twist: Add a drop of vanilla extract or a dusting of cinnamon to boost the richness.
• Smooth Texture Hack: Soak protein powder in espresso for 2 minutes before blending to reduce clumps.

How To Store This Gladiator Chocolate Espresso Smoothie

In the Fridge: Keep sealed in a jar for up to 24 hours. Shake before drinking texture may separate but blends easily.

In the Freezer: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and re-blend to restore consistency.

Copycat vs Smoothie King Comparison

Feature	Smoothie King Original	Homemade Copycat
Calories	310	~310–315
Protein	46g	45–47g
Sugar	11g	~11–12g (banana only)
Caffeine	165mg	~160–170mg
Cost	$6–$8	~$2.25–$2.75
Ingredients	Gladiator® + espresso	Whole foods + whey

This version matches the flavor, macros, and caffeine hit without needing the branded blend.

When To Enjoy This Smoothie

This one’s made for early mornings or pre-gym energy when you need coffee + protein in one hit without grabbing a separate espresso or protein shake.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per 20 oz serving)

• Calories: ~310
• Carbs: 28g
• Protein: 46g
• Fat: 3.5g
• Sugar: 11–12g
• Fibre: 5g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Caffeine: ~165mg