Smoothie King Espresso High Protein Almond Mocha Recipe

Espresso High Protein Almond Mocha is a creamy, high-protein smoothie made with real espresso, almonds, cocoa, and whey protein. This homemade copycat version matches the Smoothie King original in taste and texture, delivering a bold mocha flavor with natural energy and 30g of protein. Great for breakfast or post-workout recovery.

Ingredients Needed for Espresso High Protein Almond Mocha (Copycat)

• ¾ cup brewed espresso (chilled): Delivers the same deep coffee flavor and natural caffeine boost (~160mg) without needing cold brew concentrate.
• ½ cup nonfat milk: Keeps the base creamy and light, just like Smoothie King’s version.
• 2 tbsp natural almonds (unsalted): Adds healthy fats and rich almond flavor blend well for smooth texture.
• 2 pitted Medjool dates: Naturally sweetens the smoothie without adding sugar, just like the original.
• 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder (100%): Brings that bold mocha taste with no added sugar choose high-quality cocoa.
• 1 scoop vanilla whey protein (20–25g): Replaces their protein blend while matching the smoothness and macros.
• 1 scoop unflavored or chocolate whey protein (20–25g): Doubles up for high protein content this mimics their dual blend.
• 1 cup ice cubes: For chill and texture makes the drink thick, creamy, and refreshing.
• Optional: ¼ tsp almond extract: Boosts the nutty aroma without extra calories use if you want the almond flavor to stand out more.

How To Make Smoothie King Espresso High Protein Almond Mocha (Copycat Recipe)

1. Brew and Chill the Espresso: Use freshly brewed espresso or cold brew concentrate. Chill it completely before blending.
2. Soften the Dates and Almonds: If your blender isn’t very powerful, soak the dates and almonds in warm water for 10 minutes to help them blend smooth.
3. Blend the Base: In a high-speed blender, combine chilled espresso, milk, almonds, dates, cocoa powder, both protein powders, and ice.
4. Blend Until Creamy: Blend for 45–60 seconds until the texture is silky smooth and thick.
5. Taste & Adjust: If it’s too thick, add a splash more milk. For stronger coffee flavor, use an extra shot of espresso.

Why This Homemade Version Matches the Texture and Flavor

This smoothie was recreated to match Smoothie King’s flavor, texture, and nutrition almost exactly but using only real, whole-food ingredients.

• Espresso + cocoa + almond gives the same mocha-nut flavor combo.
• Medjool dates perfectly mirror the sweetness, without needing added sugar.
• Two protein scoops match their protein blend (31g protein total).
• Blended almonds replicate both the flavor and fat content.
• Nutrition per 20oz is close to target: high protein, moderate carbs, creamy texture, energizing caffeine.

No commercial powders. No shortcuts. Just real fuel.

Copycat vs Smoothie King Comparison

Feature	Smoothie King Original	Homemade Copycat
Calories	380	~380
Protein	31g	31–33g
Sugar	27g	24–27g
Caffeine	159mg	~160mg
Cost	$6–$8 per smoothie	~$2.50 homemade
Ingredients	Proprietary blends	Whole foods, no fillers

This quick breakdown shows how closely the homemade version mirrors the real thing without needing any commercial powders or pre-made smoothie enhancers.

When To Enjoy This Smoothie

This smoothie is ideal when you want to stay full for hours—like before a morning workout, as a grab-and-go breakfast, or for that mid-afternoon crash when you need both fuel and focus.

Recipe Tips & Variations

Make It Vegan: Swap whey protein with a plant-based protein blend and use almond milk instead of dairy. The taste will stay rich and creamy with the same macros.

Low Carb Option: Skip the dates and use a low-carb sweetener like monk fruit. You can also reduce almonds slightly to lower fat if needed.

Thicker Shake Tip: Add ¼ avocado or frozen banana for extra creaminess and fat great for post-workout nutrition.

Nut-Free Version: Use sunflower seeds instead of almonds and oat milk instead of dairy or almond milk. Still gives you a smooth, rich blend.

Stronger Coffee Boost: Use 1 full cup cold brew for more caffeine and a deeper espresso kick.

How To Store This Espresso High Protein Almond Mocha Smoothie

In the Fridge: Store in an airtight jar for up to 24 hours. Shake well before drinking texture stays creamy with minimal separation.

In the Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and re-blend for best results.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per 20 oz serving)

• Calories: 380
• Carbs: 40g
• Protein: 31g
• Fat: 13g
• Sugar: 27g
• Fibre: 6g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Caffeine: ~159mg