Smoothie King King Cake Gladiator

Want to make the Smoothie King King Cake Gladiator at home? This homemade copycat recipe uses easy ingredients you can find anywhere and tastes just like the store version. It is simple, festive, and saves you money.

How I Figured Out This Recipe

I first tried tackling the King Cake Gladiator and realized the flavor was close, but it lacked that smooth, creamy texture. I thought Smoothie King must be doing something special with the consistency.

After a few tries, I added a blend of Greek yogurt and a tiny pinch of xanthan gum. Suddenly, it became thick, creamy, and had that slight tang—just like the real thing!

King Cake Gladiator Ingredients

• 2 scoops vanilla protein powder: gives you a big protein boost and the creamy base.
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk: keeps it smooth and low in calories.
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt: adds creaminess and that cool yogurt flavor.
• 1 cup frozen mixed berries: gives the fruity King Cake twist.
• 1 tsp cinnamon: brings that warm, festive spice.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: boosts the vanilla-y cake taste.
• 1 pinch xanthan gum: my secret for thick, spoonable texture.
• 1 cup ice: makes it cold and thick.

How to Make King Cake Gladiator (Copycat)

1. Add the almond milk, vanilla protein powder, Greek yogurt, mixed berries, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and xanthan gum into your blender.
2. Throw in the ice.
3. Blend until smooth and super thick.
4. Taste and fix: Too thick? Pour a little almond milk. Not spiced enough? Sprinkle in a bit more cinnamon or a drop of vanilla.

Why This Tastes Like the Smoothie King Version

• The vanilla protein powder and vanilla extract mimic that sweet, cake-like flavor.
• Cinnamon gives it that traditional King Cake spice.
• Greek yogurt adds creaminess and tang, just like the original.
• Xanthan gum makes it thick and spoon-worthy—totally like Smoothie King.

Easy Tips and Swaps

• For vegan: swap Greek yogurt with dairy-free plain yogurt.
• Want more sweetness? Add a drop of honey or maple syrup.
• Need more protein? Use a scoop of unflavored collagen or add almond butter.
• No berries? Swap with frozen mango or pineapple for a twist.

How to Store Your Smoothie

• In the Fridge: Keep leftovers in a sealed jar for up to 24 hours. Give it a good stir or shake before drinking; the texture may thicken a bit.
• In the Freezer: Freeze extras in ice cube trays or jars. To use, let it thaw a little or blend it straight from the freezer for a slushy version.

Nutrition Info (Per Serving, about 20 oz)

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 35 g
• Carbs: 30 g
• Fat: 6 g

FAQs

• Can I substitute Greek yogurt with regular yogurt?
• Yes! Regular yogurt works fine, but Greek yogurt makes it thicker and boosts protein.
• What if I don’t have xanthan gum?
• You can skip it—your smoothie will still taste great, just a bit less thick.
• Can I use fresh berries instead of frozen?
• Absolutely! Just add extra ice to get that chilled, thick texture.

Try More Recipes:

• Smoothie King Gladiator® Vanilla
• Smoothie King Gladiator Strawberry Recipe
• Smoothie King Gladiator GLP-1 Vanilla Recipe