Sonic Drive-In offers a variety of smoothies, including fruit and cream-based options, perfect for a refreshing treat on hot days.
Sonic Drive-In is famous for its extensive drink menu, but many customers wonder: does Sonic have smoothies? The answer is yes – though their offerings may not be what you’d expect from a traditional smoothie shop. Let’s dive deep into Sonic’s beverage lineup to help you make the best choice for your taste buds and nutritional needs.
Sonic’s Official Smoothie Options
Sonic offers three signature Sunshine Smoothie® flavors under their breakfast menu:
- Strawberry – Made with real strawberries and non-fat yogurt
- Strawberry-Banana – Combines strawberry and banana flavors
- Tropical – Features orange juice, coconut, and pineapple
These smoothies come in two sizes (14oz Regular or 20oz Large) and are enriched with calcium while exceeding 100% of the daily recommended allowance of vitamins A and C. Unlike many high-end smoothie blenders that use fresh ingredients, Sonic’s smoothies are made from pre-mixed bases.
Nutritional Information
| Smoothie | Size | Calories | Sugar (g) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Strawberry | Regular | 290 | 63 |
| Strawberry-Banana | Large | 420 | 91 |
| Tropical | Regular | 310 | 68 |
Secret Menu Smoothie Options
Beyond the official menu, Sonic fans have created several smoothie variations through the “secret menu.” One popular option is the Sonic Sunshine Smoothie made with:
- Vanilla ice cream
- Real banana slices
- Strawberries
- Splash of orange juice
This version is creamier than the standard offerings but significantly higher in calories and sugar. For those looking for healthier alternatives, you might consider making similar drinks at home using a high-powered blender with fresh ingredients.
How Sonic Smoothies Compare to Other Chains
Compared to smoothie chains like Jamba Juice or Smoothie King, Sonic’s offerings:
- Contain more added sugars (up to 91g in large sizes)
- Use more processed ingredients
- Have fewer protein or supplement boost options
- Are generally less expensive
According to Sonic’s official nutrition information, their smoothies are more comparable to milkshakes than health-focused smoothies in terms of nutritional content.
Alternative Healthy Options at Sonic
If you’re looking for lighter beverage choices at Sonic, consider:
Juice Options
- Minute Maid® Orange Juice
- Minute Maid® Apple Juice
- Minute Maid® Cranberry Juice
Other Choices
- Iced or hot coffee (black or with minimal additives)
- Water with lemon
- Unsweetened iced tea
Tips for Ordering Healthier Smoothies at Sonic
If you want to enjoy a Sonic smoothie while minimizing sugar intake:
- Choose the smallest size (14oz Regular)
- Ask for no added sweeteners
- Request extra ice to dilute sweetness
- Pair with a protein-rich food to balance blood sugar
- Consider sharing with a friend
While Sonic does offer smoothies, they’re best enjoyed as occasional treats rather than daily health beverages. For more nutritious options, you might prefer making smoothies at home where you can control the ingredients and sugar content.
