The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf’s Ice Blended Mocha is a beloved beverage that’s adored for its perfect mix of chilly refreshment and rich chocolatey coffee flavor. Whether you’re a regular at the store or trying it for the first time, this drink delivers a powerful punch of taste and texture. If you’ve ever wondered, “What exactly is in this icy indulgence?” then you’re in the right place.
In this in-depth article, we’ll explore everything that goes into the iconic Ice Blended Mocha from Coffee Bean. From the ingredients to the process and the variations available, we’ll help break down this popular drink so you know what you’re sipping on — and why it tastes so great.
Understanding the Coffee Bean Ice Blended Mocha
The Ice Blended Mocha is part of Coffee Bean’s beloved “Ice Blended” family — a selection of cold, smooth, and often sweetened drinks made with ice, coffee, creams, and sometimes chocolate or fruit. The foundational idea is to combine ice with a syrup or base and a shot of coffee, then blend it to deliver a smooth, frothy beverage that’s ideal for warm days or whenever a sweet pick-me-up is needed.
What Defines an Ice Blended Mocha?
Unlike hot mochas you may traditionally associate with espresso and steamed milk, Coffee Bean’s version is thoroughly chilled and blended. The term “Blended” itself implies that the drink is not just iced coffee. It’s processed with ice and often includes ingredients like flavor syrups or blended chocolate to create a dense, smooth, and satisfying texture.
This drink is perfect for those who enjoy:
- A sweet coffee flavor with a kick
- A cold, smoothie-like texture
- Chocolate and coffee combined
- A convenient treat for busy mornings or afternoon cravings
Main Ingredients in an Ice Blended Mocha from Coffee Bean
Let’s dive into the ingredients that make up this richly flavored drink. Each element plays a role in balancing flavor, texture, and caffeine content to deliver the refreshing jolt customers love.
Coffee (Espresso or Brewed Coffee)
The backbone of any mocha is, of course, coffee. Coffee Bean uses their signature medium or dark roast, often in the form of a single or double shot of espresso. Espresso is richer and more concentrated than regular brewed coffee, providing bold flavor and sufficient caffeine content.
- Espresso: Typically, a double espresso shot is used, amounting to about two ounces of concentrated coffee. This offers a strong coffee presence in the blend.
- Water or Brewed Coffee: In some versions, brewed coffee may be added to supplement the espresso and help dilute the drink slightly while maintaining its coffee-forward profile.
Ice
Finely crushed or standard ice cubes are a major component of the drink, giving it the refreshing chill that makes it an ideal cold beverage. The blending process breaks the ice down into smooth, drinkable textures rather than solid chunks.
Chocolate Syrup or Mocha Base
Mocha by definition includes chocolate — and Coffee Bean doesn’t hold back. This is typically in the form of their proprietary coffee syrup or mocha blend:
- Dark Chocolate Syrup: Adds richness, sweetness, and depth to the drink while balancing the bitterness of the coffee.
- Sugar and Cocoa Powder: Often part of the syrup, it enhances body and contributes to the dessert-like flavor profile.
- Vanilla Extract: In some cases, a touch of vanilla extract is mixed into mocha bases to enhance aroma and taste complexity.
Milk or Cream Base
To give the drink its creamy body, some form of milk or cream is used. This varies based on personalizations and dietary preferences. Here are common options:
- Whole Milk: Offers richness, a creamy texture, and a smooth blend with coffee and chocolate. Traditional versions use whole milk for the fullest flavor.
- Non-Dairy Alternatives: Customers can opt for almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk for a dairy-free version. These also influence texture and sweetness slightly differently than whole milk.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: Occasionally added by request or in premium versions, adding fat content and a luxurious mouthfeel.
Sugar or Sweeteners
Most Coffee Bean drinks are customizable to meet taste preferences, and the Ice Blended Mocha is no exception.
- Standard Sugar Amount: The mocha base includes added sugar, contributing to the sweet treat experience.
- Customized Sweetness: At the store, customers can request less syrup, sugar-free syrups, or alternative sweeteners (like stevia) to modify the sweetness level of their drink.
Whipped Cream (Optional Topping)
While not a required ingredient, whipped cream is often added on top for indulgence. This layer provides:
- Additional sweetness and richness
- Visual appeal
- A soft contrast of texture with the cold ice blend below
- Dairy Alternatives: Almond and oat milk may reduce calories and fat but may also introduce different sweetening agents or texture modifiers.
- Sugar-Free Options: Coffee Bean offers sugar-free mocha syrup variants that significantly reduce overall calorie count and sugar levels without compromising flavor.
- Whipped Cream Additions: Adding whipped cream increases fat and calorie content, often by 50–150 calories depending on amount used.
- Single Shot: ~75–125mg caffeine
- Double Shot: ~150–250mg caffeine
- Espresso Shot Pulling: The drink begins with a fresh double espresso pulled from high-quality Arabica beans (Coffee Bean’s specialty). This ensures a concentrated coffee foundation.
- Ice Addition: A tall cup is filled with ice cubes — the amount varies to accommodate customizations and flavor extraction.
- Syrup Dosing: A proprietary blend of mocha syrup is added according to size and sweetener preferences.
- Milk Pouring: Depending on the order, the appropriate milk (dairy or non-dairy) is poured over the ice along with the espresso and syrup mixture.
- Blending: Some stores will blend the beverage entirely using an industrial blending machine to create a frozen consistency. Others may mix it by hand via pouring and stirring before serving over fresh crushed ice.
- Topping It Off: If requested, a layer of whipped cream is added, followed by dusted cocoa powder or chocolate shavings for that upscale touch.
- Whole Milk (traditional)
- Low-Fat or Skim Milk (for lighter options)
- Non-Dairy Milk: Almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk
- Extra sugar
- Reduced sugar
- Sugar-free mocha syrup
- Vanilla
- Caramel
- White chocolate
- Mint
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings
- Caramel drizzle
- Coffee Bean: Creamy and smooth, with optimal blending of ice and ingredients
- Starbucks Frappuccino: Often creamier due to added thickening agents or mocha powder
- Dunkin’ Frozen Coffee: Usually lighter and icier, with less viscosity
- Coffee Bean’s espresso-forward style offers a stronger coffee base.
- Starbucks often leans more towards sweetness with artificial enhancements.
- Dunkin’ blends for simplicity, with less depth overall.
Nutritional Breakdown of the Ice Blended Mocha
Understanding what’s in the drink also means considering the calories, sugar content, and caffeine levels associated with each serving size.
Typical Nutritional Information (16 oz Grande Size – Approximate Values)
| Component | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 400–550 | Varies per milk selection and syrup quantity |
| Sugar | 35–50g | From syrup and natural milk sugars |
| Caffeine | 200–300mg | Based on number of espresso shots used |
| Protein | 6–12g | Primarily from milk |
| Carbohydrates | 50–70g | Mainly from sugar and syrups |
Impact of Customization on Nutrition
Caffeine Levels — What to Expect
A double shot of espresso (found in most versions) includes about 120–150mg of caffeine per shot.
This makes the Ice Blended Mocha a strong contender for those needing a midday energy boost — though it’s recommended to check with your barista if you’re sensitive or counting caffeine grams.
How Is the Ice Blended Mocha Made at Coffee Bean?
While the exact process may vary slightly from store to store, here’s the typical preparation method:
Step-by-Step Mocha Creation Process
Behind the Scenes: Why Blending Matters
The blending step is what distinguishes an Ice Blended Mocha from a simple iced mocha. When ice and ingredients are blended, they fully integrate — making the texture richer, smoother, and colder than merely pouring over ice. This gives the drink a unique mouthfeel that many customers seek in mocha lovers’ heaven.
Variations and Customizations
One of the major benefits of ordering from a quality coffee retailer like Coffee Bean is the possibility of personalization — whether due to taste, dietary need, or creativity. Here are a few common variations available:
Milk Options
Sugar Adjustments
Flavor Injections
Want to up the ante?
Toppings & Texture Additions
You can also enhance the drink with toppings. Some stores offer:
Why Is the Ice Blended Mocha a Customer Favorite?
Beyond its unique blend of ingredients, the Ice Blended Mocha from Coffee Bean holds a special place for many customers. Here’s why:
It Combines Classics: Coffee and Chocolate
The pairing of rich coffee and smooth chocolate is as timeless as it is satisfying. It appeals to both the morning productivity-driven crowd and the dessert-craving afternoon leisurely sippers.
Refreshing Versatility
Whether you want it ultra-dense with minimal liquid or lighter with more milk content, it’s easy to customize. Plus, it appeals to many different beverage tastes — from sweet blends to coffee-forward versions.
Perfect for All Seasons (and Moods!)
Though particularly refreshing in summer, its rich, dessert-like nature also makes it a treat during colder months when you need a jolt while satisfying a sweet tooth.
Brand Legacy and Quality Ingredients
Coffee Bean’s reputation for quality coffee beans, curated syrups, and consistent operations has ensured that the mocha maintains its flavor profile across locations. Whether you’re in California or Singapore, you’re getting a familiar, pleasurable experience.
Comparing Coffee Bean’s Ice Blended Mocha with Competitors
How does Coffee Bean’s offering compare with other mochas or blended cold drinks from companies like Starbucks or Dunkin’?
Texture
Flavor Richness
Customization
Coffee Bean’s focus on quality means custom blends — with real milk and fresh ingredients — are easier to personalize at the point of sale. Starbucks does allow customization but often at a premium price.
Who Is the Ice Blended Mocha Ideal For?
With all of its components reviewed, let’s break down user profiles. Who should try this iconic beverage?
Coffee Lovers Looking for Excitement
If you’re not satisfied with generic iced coffee, but want a little more indulgence in your caffeine, this is perfect.
Chocolate Connoisseurs Craving a Twist
Those who love all things chocolate — whether melted, frozen, or blended — will appreciate this drink’s rich composition.
Foodies Wanting a Textured Treat
The mocha offers a dessert-like experience in a convenient, cold beverage — ideal for someone with a complex palate.
People on the Go (But Not Rushing)
It’s best consumed leisurely, slowly enjoying that thick texture and robust flavor. Perfect for breaks, work pauses, or when you’re meeting with friends.
In Conclusion: A Rich Ice Mocha with Layers of Flavor
The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf’s Ice Blended Mocha isn’t just cold coffee with ice. It’s a thoughtfully composed beverage that brings together powerful espresso, sweet mocha syrup, refreshing ice, and creamy textures to create an unforgettable sensory experience.
Whether you’re curious about the specific ingredients that make it so decadent, want to understand its caffeine content, or explore modifications to suit your diet, this guide provides a thorough breakdown.
So next time you head to Coffee Bean for your beloved mocha, take a moment to appreciate the layers of flavor and craft that go into every single blend. Because when it comes to coffee treats, it’s not just about the buzz — it’s about the experience.
What is an Ice Blended Mocha from Coffee Bean?
An Ice Blended Mocha from The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf is a popular blended beverage that combines rich coffee flavor with elements of sweetness and creaminess. It’s made by blending freshly brewed Coffee Bean coffee with ice, mocha syrup, and milk or cream. The result is a thick, frosty drink that offers a balanced mix of bold coffee taste and smooth chocolate undertones.
This cold beverage is ideal for those who enjoy a cold, refreshing way to consume their coffee, especially in warmer weather or as a dessert-like treat. It’s a signature item from Coffee Bean, known for its unique preparation process that involves blending the ingredients to a slushie-like consistency, ensuring a smooth and satisfying texture with every sip.
What are the main ingredients in an Ice Blended Mocha?
The primary components of an Ice Blended Mocha include brewed coffee, ice, mocha syrup, and milk or cream. Additional ingredients may include sweeteners or flavor shots such as vanilla or caramel if requested. These elements work together to create a layered flavor profile that is both rich and smooth.
Coffee Bean uses high-quality ingredients to ensure optimal taste and texture. While the exact amounts may vary depending on size and customization options, the foundational blend remains consistent. The drink is thoroughly mixed in a high-powered blender to achieve its distinctive icy yet creamy consistency.
Does the Ice Blended Mocha contain espresso?
No, an Ice Blended Mocha from Coffee Bean does not typically contain espresso. Instead, it is made using their house-brewed coffee, which is known for its smooth yet bold flavor. This brewed coffee serves as the foundation, delivering a strong coffee taste in a less intense form than espresso.
However, for customers seeking a stronger coffee experience, some Coffee Bean locations may offer the option to add espresso shots for an additional charge. This customization allows patrons to tailor the strength of the drink to their personal preference, making it more versatile for both casual and serious coffee drinkers.
Is the Ice Blended Mocha customizable?
Yes, the Ice Blended Mocha is highly customizable at The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf. Customers can adjust the level of sweetness, request additional flavors like vanilla or hazelnut, or choose alternative milk options such as almond, oat, or soy milk. These personalization features allow the drink to cater to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences.
Other customization options include adding toppings like whipped cream or sprinkles, using decaf coffee, or adjusting the ice level to create a thinner or thicker texture. These choices empower customers to make the drink their own, whether they prefer a more traditional mocha flavor or a bold new twist.
How much caffeine is in an Ice Blended Mocha?
The caffeine content in an Ice Blended Mocha varies depending on the size and base coffee used. Generally, a Tall (12 oz) contains around 75-100 mg of caffeine, a Grande (16 oz) around 100-150 mg, and a Venti (24 oz) could contain approximately 150-200 mg. These estimates assume the use of regular brewed coffee as the base.
Because Coffee Bean does not use a standardized espresso shot, caffeine levels can fluctuate slightly. Those sensitive to caffeine can request a decaf version, which significantly reduces the caffeine content while still offering the signature flavor and texture of the original drink.
Is the Ice Blended Mocha considered a dessert drink?
While the Ice Blended Mocha is primarily served as a cold coffee beverage, its creamy and sweet characteristics make it a popular choice as a dessert drink. It’s enjoyed similarly to a chocolate milkshake with a coffee twist, especially when topped with whipped cream and chocolate drizzle. This makes it appealing to those with a sweet tooth.
However, it can also fit into a morning or afternoon coffee routine, depending on personal preference. Its versatility allows it to straddle the line between a daily coffee indulgence and a special treat, especially since the calories and sugar content can be adjusted based on the size and modifications requested.
What makes the Ice Blended Mocha from Coffee Bean different from other mochas?
The key distinction of Coffee Bean’s Ice Blended Mocha lies in its preparation method and texture. Unlike traditional iced mochas that are simply poured over ice, this drink is blended until smooth, resulting in a thick, icy consistency similar to a slushie. This unique texture is a signature element that sets it apart from competitors’ offerings.
Additionally, Coffee Bean emphasizes the use of high-quality, custom-blended coffee and mocha syrup, contributing to a richer and more robust flavor. The option to customize the drink to individual tastes also enhances its appeal, making it a standout choice for those looking for both quality and personalization in their coffee beverages.