best low calorie coffee at starbucks

Imagine craving a quick caffeine boost, but you want to keep the calorie count low. I’ve tested all these Starbucks options myself, and a few things stand out. The Starbucks Espresso & Cream Light Coffee Cans 6.5oz 12 Pack hit the sweet spot with 70 calories and rich, bold espresso flavor—perfect for on-the-go or at home, and it’s ready to drink. It’s surprisingly satisfying without the sugar crash.

While the Starbucks VIA Ready Brew Colombia Coffee is excellent for solo coffee connoisseurs thanks to its balanced flavor and easy stir-in convenience, it’s slightly higher in calories and less portable. The energy drinks (DoubleShot and Tripleshot) pack a caffeine punch but focus more on energy than being low-calorie coffee options. The VIA Iced Coffee is also tasty but contains more sugar and calories. After comparing all, the Starbucks Espresso & Cream Light Coffee Cans wins for its flavor, portability, and low calorie punch. Trust me, it’s a game-changer for anyone trying to keep calories down without sacrificing quality.

Top Recommendation: Starbucks Espresso & Cream Light Coffee Cans 6.5oz 12 Pack

Why We Recommend It: This product offers 70 calories per can with bold Starbucks espresso and just the right touch of cream. It’s ready to drink, highly portable, and delivers the rich flavor you’d expect from Starbucks without the added sugars of energy drinks or flavored syrups. Its convenient packaging makes it the ideal low-calorie option for busy days or quick refreshers.

Best low calorie coffee at starbucks: Our Top 5 Picks

• Starbucks Espresso & Cream Light Coffee Cans 6.5oz 12 Pack – Best Low Calorie Coffee Drinks at Starbucks
• Starbucks VIA Ready Brew Colombia Coffee, 50-Count – Best Value
• Starbucks Doubleshot Energy Drink Coffee Beverage, Caramel, – Best Premium Option
• Starbucks Tripleshot Coffee Drink, Mocha, 11 fl oz, 12 cans – Best Premium Low Calorie Coffee Drink
• Starbucks VIA® Iced Coffee by Starbucks Coffee – Best Low Calorie Iced Coffee Starbucks

What Are the Best Low-Calorie Coffee Drinks Available at Starbucks?

The best low-calorie coffee drinks available at Starbucks include various options that cater to different preferences while keeping calorie counts low.

1. Cold Brew Coffee
2. Iced Americano
3. Nitro Cold Brew
4. Caffè Americano
5. Espresso
6. Flat White (with non-fat milk)
7. Cold Brew Iced Coffee (with almond milk)
8. Brewed Coffee (Pike Place)

Low-Calorie Coffee Drinks at Starbucks:
1. Cold Brew Coffee:
Cold Brew Coffee is made by steeping coarsely ground coffee in cold water for an extended period. This drink has a smooth flavor and a low acidity. Without added sweeteners or cream, it contains approximately 5 calories per serving. Customers appreciate its refreshing taste, especially in warmer months.

2. Iced Americano:
   An Iced Americano combines espresso shots with cold water and ice. This drink has a rich espresso flavor without any calories if consumed without syrup or cream. Its strong taste is popular among those who enjoy concentrated coffee flavors.

3. Nitro Cold Brew:
   Nitro Cold Brew is cold brew coffee infused with nitrogen, giving it a creamy texture without added calories. It contains about 5 calories because it does not require sugar or milk to enhance its flavor. The creamy mouthfeel appeals to those seeking an indulgent experience without the calories.

4. Caffè Americano:
   Caffè Americano consists of espresso shots diluted with hot water. It offers a bold coffee flavor with minimal calories, similar to the Iced Americano. Each drink typically contains about 15 calories. This option is favorable for customers who want to enjoy strong coffee without any added sugars.

5. Espresso:
   Espresso is a concentrated coffee beverage made by forcing hot water through finely-ground coffee. A single shot of espresso has about 5 calories. Its bold flavor makes it a great option for coffee purists.

6. Flat White (with non-fat milk):
   A Flat White combines espresso, textured milk, and a velvety finish. When made with non-fat milk, it contains roughly 120 calories for a tall size. This beverage is favored for its smooth taste and creamy texture without excessive calories.

7. Cold Brew Iced Coffee (with almond milk):
   Cold Brew Iced Coffee can be ordered with almond milk to lower calorie counts. Unless sweetened, it contains around 30 calories. This option suits those looking for a lighter alternative to traditional iced coffee.

8. Brewed Coffee (Pike Place):
   Brewed Coffee, specifically Pike Place, is a medium-roast coffee with a well-balanced flavor. A standard serving has about 5 calories. Customers enjoy this versatile choice, which can be enhanced with calorie-free flavor shots.

These drinks offer a variety of flavors and textures, allowing Starbucks customers to enjoy coffee while maintaining lower calorie intake.

How Can You Customize Starbucks Coffee Drinks to Lower Calories?

You can customize Starbucks coffee drinks to lower calories by adjusting the type of milk, sweeteners, and portion sizes.

1. Change the milk: Opt for non-fat milk or almond milk instead of whole or 2% milk. Non-fat milk contains fewer calories, while almond milk typically has around 30 calories per cup compared to 150 calories in whole milk (USDA, 2022).

2. Use fewer sweeteners: Request fewer pumps of syrup or use sugar-free syrup options. A standard pump of full-flavor syrup has approximately 20 calories. Reducing the number of pumps can significantly lower the total calorie count in your drink.

3. Avoid whipped cream: Whipped cream adds unnecessary calories. A dollop of whipped cream can add about 100 calories to your drink (Starbucks Nutrition, 2023). Skip it to keep your drink lighter.

4. Reduce the size: Order a smaller size. A tall (12 oz) drink typically has fewer calories than a grande (16 oz) drink. Choosing a tall size can help you cut down on calories by about 50 or more, depending on the drink (Starbucks Nutrition, 2023).

5. Choose espresso-based drinks: Espresso has fewer calories than brewed coffee or specialty drinks. A shot of espresso has about 5 calories. Drinks like Americano or espresso shots can satisfy your coffee cravings with minimal caloric intake.

6. Flavor without calories: Use cinnamon or vanilla extract for flavor without added calories. These options can enhance the drink’s taste naturally without contributing significant calories.

Utilizing these tips allows you to enjoy delicious Starbucks coffee drinks while keeping your calorie intake in check.

What Health Benefits Come from Drinking Low-Calorie Coffee at Starbucks?

Low-calorie coffee at Starbucks offers several health benefits. These benefits include reduced calorie intake, potential weight management support, improved focus and energy, antioxidants, and a varied caffeine content.

1. Reduced Calorie Intake
2. Potential Weight Management Support
3. Improved Focus and Energy
4. Antioxidants
5. Varied Caffeine Content

The next section will provide detailed explanations of these benefits to underscore their significance for health-conscious consumers.

1. Reduced Calorie Intake: Drinking low-calorie coffee reduces overall calorie intake. Regular coffee can be high in calories due to added sugars and creamers. By choosing low-calorie options, such as black coffee or an Americano, consumers can enjoy the beverage without added calories. The USDA states that a standard 8-ounce cup of black coffee contains about 2 calories, making it a low-calorie beverage choice.

2. Potential Weight Management Support: Low-calorie coffee may assist with weight management. Research indicates that caffeine can increase metabolic rate and fat oxidation. According to a study by Astrup et al. (1990), caffeine consumption can enhance weight loss efforts. The low-calorie nature of certain Starbucks coffee drinks enables individuals to indulge without compromising their calorie goals.

3. Improved Focus and Energy: Consuming low-calorie coffee can enhance focus and energy levels. Caffeine, a primary component of coffee, acts as a stimulant. It can improve cognitive performance and mood. A review by Haskell et al. (2005) highlighted that caffeine intake enhances attention and alertness, making it easier to concentrate on tasks.

4. Antioxidants: Low-calorie coffee provides antioxidants. Coffee is a significant source of antioxidants, which are compounds that help combat oxidative stress in the body. According to the National Institutes of Health, coffee may contain as many antioxidants as fruits and vegetables in some diets. Drinking low-calorie coffee therefore adds beneficial compounds to the diet without excess calories.

5. Varied Caffeine Content: Low-calorie coffee options at Starbucks offer varied caffeine content. Different preparations and types of coffee provide unique amounts of caffeine, allowing consumers to choose according to their preference. For instance, a tall brewed coffee contains more caffeine than a tall decaf. This variability helps individuals tailor their caffeine intake to their needs.

These health benefits make low-calorie coffee at Starbucks an attractive option for health-focused consumers.

What Ingredients Make a Starbucks Coffee Drink Low-Calorie?

Low-calorie Starbucks coffee drinks typically contain fewer calories by using alternatives to high-calorie ingredients. The main strategies include using skim milk or non-dairy milk, opting for sugar-free syrups, and reducing portion sizes.

1. Skim milk or non-dairy milk alternatives
2. Sugar-free syrups
3. Smaller portion sizes
4. Flavor enhancers like cinnamon or nutmeg
5. Cold brew or drip coffee as base options

Transitioning from the basic strategies, it is important to delve deeper into each option for low-calorie choices at Starbucks.

1. Skim milk or non-dairy milk alternatives: Using skim milk instead of whole milk reduces calorie intake. Skim milk contains about 80 calories per 8-ounce serving, while whole milk has around 150 calories. Non-dairy alternatives, such as almond or coconut milk, vary in calories. Unsweetened almond milk has only 30 calories per cup, making it a favorable choice for low-calorie drinks.

2. Sugar-free syrups: Starbucks offers sugar-free versions of its flavored syrups. Typically, a regular flavored syrup contains about 20 calories per pump, while sugar-free versions have zero calories. This substitution allows customers to enjoy sweet flavors without adding extra calories.

3. Smaller portion sizes: Ordering smaller sizes, such as a short or tall drink, can significantly reduce calorie content. For example, a tall flavored latte can contain about 250 calories, but opting for a short can cut that number to around 150 calories, depending on the ingredients.

4. Flavor enhancers like cinnamon or nutmeg: Adding spices can enhance flavor without adding calories. Both cinnamon and nutmeg provide taste without calorie contributions. Spices can be sprinkled on top of drinks or mixed in for added flavor complexity.

5. Cold brew or drip coffee as base options: Cold brew and traditional drip coffee serve as low-calorie bases for Starbucks drinks. Both options typically contain less than 5 calories per serving. Customizing these bases with low-calorie milk or syrup can create satisfying beverages without excessive calories.

These options highlight how customers can tailor their Starbucks coffee orders to align with their low-calorie dietary preferences while still enjoying the flavors they love.

How Do Low-Calorie Syrups and Additions Enhance Your Starbucks Coffee?

Low-calorie syrups and additions enhance your Starbucks coffee by providing flavor without adding significant calories or sugar. They offer a way to customize drinks while maintaining a lower caloric intake.

1. Flavor enhancement: Low-calorie syrups introduce a variety of flavors to coffee. Popular options include vanilla, caramel, and hazelnut. These flavors can make coffee more enjoyable without increasing calorie counts substantially.

2. Sugar reduction: Regular syrups are high in sugar and calories. Low-calorie alternatives use sweeteners like stevia or sucralose, which provide sweetness without the added calories. For example, a typical pump of regular syrup may contain around 20 calories, while low-calorie varieties often have 0-10 calories per pump.

3. Customization options: Customers can customize drinks to meet their tastes and dietary preferences. This personalization allows for a unique coffee experience tailored to each individual’s needs.

4. Weight management: Using low-calorie syrups can facilitate weight management. They allow individuals to enjoy flavorful drinks while controlling caloric intake. Research suggests that reducing sugar can lead to weight loss when combined with a balanced diet (Micha et al., 2017).

5. Sensory experience: Flavor plays a significant role in the overall enjoyment of coffee. Low-calorie syrups can enhance the sensory experience, making the drink more satisfying. This satisfaction can reduce cravings for high-calorie desserts.

6. Versatile usage: Low-calorie syrups can be used in various drinks beyond coffee, such as teas or iced beverages. This versatility allows customers to enjoy lower-calorie options across the menu.

7. Dietary compliance: For those following specific diets, such as keto or low-carb, low-calorie syrups provide a way to enjoy sweet flavors without straying from their dietary restrictions.

By incorporating low-calorie syrups and additions, Starbucks gives customers the ability to enjoy flavored coffee drinks while remaining mindful of their caloric intake and personal health goals.

How Does Starbucks’ Low-Calorie Coffee Stack Up Against Competitors?

Starbucks’ low-calorie coffee options provide a competitive choice among coffee shops. Their offerings, such as the Caffè Americano and Nitro Cold Brew, feature minimal calories, especially when made without added syrups or cream. These drinks typically contain around 5 calories per serving.

In comparison, competitors like Dunkin’ and Peet’s Coffee also offer low-calorie options. Dunkin’s Cold Brew and Peet’s Iced Coffee are similarly low in calories, generally containing between 5 to 10 calories when served unsweetened. However, the flavor profiles and caffeine levels can differ.

Starbucks emphasizes customization. Customers can choose to add almond milk or oat milk to enhance flavor without significantly increasing calories. This versatility attracts health-conscious consumers. Competitors offer customization as well but may lack the same degree of flavor variety as Starbucks’ extensive menu.

Taste and quality are crucial factors. Many consumers prefer Starbucks for its rich coffee flavor and smooth texture, which can make low-calorie options more appealing. Availability is another consideration. Starbucks has a wide network of locations globally, making access easier for many customers.

Overall, Starbucks’ low-calorie coffee stacks up well against its competitors. It combines flavor, quality, and customization, making it a strong option for those seeking low-calorie beverages.

What Are Some Tips for Choosing the Healthiest Drinks at Starbucks?

The healthiest drinks at Starbucks often emphasize lower sugar content, fewer calories, and natural ingredients. Here are some tips on how to choose these drinks wisely:

1. Opt for unsweetened or lightly sweetened beverages.
2. Choose plant-based milk alternatives.
3. Select cold brew or iced coffee over sugary frappuccinos.
4. Consider herbal teas or hot teas.
5. Avoid added syrups and whipped cream.

To effectively identify the healthiest options, it’s essential to understand each category of drinks available at Starbucks.

1. Unsweetened or Lightly Sweetened Beverages: Unsweetened or lightly sweetened beverages reduce added sugars. Sugar contributes to higher caloric intake, which can lead to health issues such as obesity and diabetes. Starbucks offers a range of drinks, including Americano, where you can enjoy the robust coffee flavor without added sweeteners.

2. Plant-Based Milk Alternatives: Plant-based milk alternatives, such as almond or oat milk, provide lower-calorie options compared to whole milk. According to a 2021 study by the Journal of Nutrition, almond milk contains about 30 calories per cup, while whole milk contains approximately 150 calories. These alternatives can still offer creaminess and flavor enhancement.

3. Cold Brew or Iced Coffee: Cold brew or iced coffee often contains less acidity and can be enjoyed without cream or sugar. A Starbucks Cold Brew, for example, is made with coarsely ground coffee brewed in cold water over an extended period. This method results in a smoother taste and allows you to enjoy the coffee without extra calorie-laden flavorings.

4. Herbal Teas or Hot Teas: Herbal teas or hot teas are generally calorie-free when served without milk or sweeteners. Examples include the Mint Majesty or Chai Tea. According to the American Heart Association, these beverages can enhance hydration and provide various health benefits like antioxidants, which could improve heart health.

5. Avoid Added Syrups and Whipped Cream: Avoiding added syrups and whipped cream can significantly decrease the calories and sugars in your drinks. For instance, a Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte can have upwards of 400 calories with standard syrup and whipped cream, while customizing it without these additions can reduce calories dramatically.

By following these guidelines, you can effectively choose healthier drink options at Starbucks.

Related Post:

• Best sugar-free starbucks coffee drinks
• Best espresso roast
• Best starbucks coffee beans for espresso
• Best stevia for coffee
• Best straws for hot coffee