This Espresso D-Lite Mocha copycat brings Smoothie King’s bold, chocolatey coffee smoothie right to your blender with simple, clean ingredients.
We swapped their mystery protein blend and vanilla frozen yogurt for things you actually keep at home, like whey protein and store-bought frozen yogurt. It’s a creamy, energizing drink with a rich espresso hit and a smoother, cleaner finish.
Ingredients Needed:
- 1/2 cup brewed espresso (chilled): Delivers a strong coffee punch and a serious caffeine boost.
- 1 cup nonfat milk: Keeps it creamy and light, just like the original.
- 1 cup vanilla nonfat frozen yogurt: Adds that creamy, slightly tangy vanilla base.
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder: Brings rich chocolate depth without added sugar.
- 2 tablespoons turbinado sugar: Natural sweetener with a mellow molasses note.
- 1 scoop vanilla whey protein powder: Substitutes their protein blend while keeping the vanilla balance.
- 1 cup ice: Blends it cold and thick, just like a real smoothie should be.
How to Make Smoothie King Espresso D-lite Mocha (Copycat):
- Chill your brewed espresso beforehand so it doesn’t melt the ice too fast.
- Add espresso, milk, frozen yogurt, cocoa powder, turbinado sugar, protein powder, and ice to your blender.
- Blend on high until smooth, creamy, and slightly frothy.
- Taste and tweak: more cocoa if you want it richer, or more yogurt for a creamier finish.
- Pour and enjoy cold.

How This Homemade Recipe Matches The Original Taste:
The original is all about bold mocha flavor with a creamy texture and big caffeine hit. We nailed that by using strong espresso instead of cold brew, combining it with cocoa and vanilla frozen yogurt for that mocha-meets-ice cream vibe. The protein powder helps copy the thick, milkshake-like feel without being heavy. And with about 159mg caffeine, this homemade version matches the kick too.
Recipe Tips & Variations:
For a stronger mocha flavor, add an extra teaspoon of cocoa or a few dark chocolate chips. Want it sweeter? Toss in an extra date or a drizzle of maple syrup instead of more sugar. To make it dairy-free, use almond or oat milk, a non-dairy frozen dessert, and plant-based protein powder.
For extra creaminess, sub half the ice with frozen banana (just know it adds a slight fruity note). And if you don’t have espresso, strong cold brew concentrate works too.
How To Store This Smoothie:
Store in the fridge for up to 24 hours in a sealed jar—just give it a good shake or stir before drinking. If you want to save it longer, freeze in ice cube trays and reblend with a little milk or espresso to bring it back to life.
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: ~320
- Carbs: 57g
- Protein: 14g
- Fat: 4.5g
- Sugar: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Caffeine: ~159mg
FAQs
Can I use regular coffee instead of espresso?
Yes, just brew it strong and chill it first.
Is this really high in caffeine?
Yes, about 159mg per serving, thanks to the espresso. It’s one of the highest in Smoothie King’s lineup.
Can I make this without protein powder?
You can skip it, but it won’t be as filling or match the original’s macros.
What makes it taste like mocha?
It’s the combo of espresso and unsweetened cocoa with the sweet vanilla from the frozen yogurt.
Smoothie King Espresso D-Lite™ Mocha (Copycat Recipe)
1
servings5
minutes320
kcalA bold, creamy coffee smoothie inspired by Smoothie King’s Espresso D-Lite™ Mocha. Made with real espresso, cocoa, and vanilla frozen yogurt, this high-energy drink is perfect for a strong start without added junk.
Ingredients
1/2 cup brewed espresso (chilled)
1 cup nonfat milk
1 cup vanilla nonfat frozen yogurt
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tablespoons turbinado sugar
1 scoop vanilla whey protein powder
1 cup ice
Directions
- Brew espresso and chill before blending.
- Add all ingredients to a blender.
- Blend on high until smooth and frothy.
- Taste and adjust sweetness or thickness as needed.
- Serve immediately and enjoy cold.