Big Train Mocha Blended Ice Coffee (Copycat Recipe)
This 5-minute copycat of the Big Train Mocha Blended Ice Coffee is thick, creamy, and deeply chocolatey — just like the café version, but for a fraction of the cost. A tiny pinch of xanthan gum gives it that signature body that doesn't separate.
Equipment
- High-speed blender
- Measuring spoons
- Tall glass
- Straw
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 heaping tablespoon instant espresso powder
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-process if possible)
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/8 teaspoon xanthan gum
- 1 1/2 cups ice cubes
For topping (optional)
- to taste whipped cream
- to taste chocolate syrup
Instructions
- Add the milk, instant espresso powder, cocoa powder, sugar, and xanthan gum to the blender. Blend for 10 seconds until completely smooth and no powdery lumps remain.
- Add the ice cubes to the blender.
- Start on low, then ramp up to high. Blend for 30-45 seconds until thick and smooth — the mixture should move like a thick milkshake.
- Pour into a tall glass, top with whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate syrup if desired. Serve immediately with a straw.
Notes
Don't overdo the xanthan gum: A little goes a long way. Too much turns it into pudding. Use the exact pinch called for.
Bulk dry mix: Combine 1 cup instant espresso powder, 1/2 cup cocoa powder, 1 1/2 cups sugar, and 1 teaspoon xanthan gum. Store in an airtight jar. To make one serving, use 1/4 cup of the dry mix + 1 cup milk + 1 cup ice. Blend and serve.
For an ultra-creamy version: Use 1/2 cup milk and 1/2 cup frozen milk cubes instead of ice.
Dairy-free: Use oat milk or full-fat canned coconut milk.
Bulk dry mix: Combine 1 cup instant espresso powder, 1/2 cup cocoa powder, 1 1/2 cups sugar, and 1 teaspoon xanthan gum. Store in an airtight jar. To make one serving, use 1/4 cup of the dry mix + 1 cup milk + 1 cup ice. Blend and serve.
For an ultra-creamy version: Use 1/2 cup milk and 1/2 cup frozen milk cubes instead of ice.
Dairy-free: Use oat milk or full-fat canned coconut milk.