Does an Almond Latte Have Carbs? The Low-Carb Truth

October 13, 2025 •

4 min read

Unsweetened almond milk contains as few as 1 gram of carbs per cup, but does an almond latte have carbs in its final form? The total carbohydrate count of your favorite latte is not fixed and depends almost entirely on the type of almond milk and any added flavorings.

Quick Summary

The carb content of an almond latte hinges on the use of sweetened versus unsweetened almond milk. Sweetened versions and added syrups significantly increase the total carbohydrates. Careful ordering and label reading are necessary to maintain a low-carb or keto-friendly beverage.

Key Points

Unsweetened vs. Sweetened: The primary determinant of an almond latte's carb count is whether the almond milk is unsweetened (low-carb) or sweetened (high-carb).
Syrups Increase Carbs Dramatically: Standard flavored syrups add significant amounts of sugar and carbohydrates, while sugar-free syrups provide flavor with minimal carb impact.
Keto-Friendly Option: An almond latte made with unsweetened almond milk and sugar-free flavoring is suitable for a ketogenic diet.
Check Labels: Always read nutrition labels for commercial almond milk to identify any added sugars or additives that contribute to the carb count.
Customize Your Order: To minimize carbs at a coffee shop, request unsweetened almond milk and ask for sugar-free syrups instead of regular ones.
DIY Offers Control: Preparing an almond latte at home provides complete control over the ingredients, ensuring the lowest possible carb content.
Low Protein Count: Remember that almond milk is much lower in protein than dairy milk, which is a consideration for overall nutrition.

Understanding Carbs in Almond Milk

To accurately assess the carbohydrate content of an almond latte, you must first understand the foundation: the almond milk itself. A common misconception is that all almond milk is created equal, which is far from the truth, especially concerning carbohydrate levels.

Unsweetened Almond Milk: This version is the clear winner for anyone monitoring their carb intake. According to the USDA, one cup (240ml) of unsweetened almond milk contains a very low amount of carbohydrates, often just 1 to 4 grams. These trace carbs primarily come from the almonds and are naturally low in sugar. Fortified varieties often contain added vitamins but typically remain low in carbs, making them an excellent choice for a low-carb diet or a keto lifestyle.

Sweetened Almond Milk: The story changes dramatically with sweetened almond milk. To improve the taste and texture, manufacturers often add sugar. This can drive the carb count up significantly, with one cup potentially containing 12 to 16 grams of carbohydrates or more. The added sugar is easily absorbed by the body, leading to a blood sugar spike that can throw off a ketogenic diet.

The Carb Impact of Coffee Shop Customizations

While the base almond milk is a major factor, most coffee shops offer a variety of customizations that can turn a low-carb drink into a sugar bomb. The pure espresso or brewed coffee used in a latte contains negligible carbohydrates, so the culprits are typically the added syrups and toppings.

Here is a list of common latte additions and their carb impact:

Flavored Syrups: Standard, sugar-filled syrups (vanilla, caramel, hazelnut, etc.) can add a large dose of carbs and calories. Just one pump can contain several grams of sugar, and many coffee shops add multiple pumps.
Sugar-Free Syrups: These are the best choice for a low-carb latte. They are sweetened with artificial sweeteners or sugar alcohols and contain zero or minimal carbs. Always double-check with the barista that they are using a sugar-free option.
Toppings: Whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or chocolate shavings are all sources of added sugar and carbs. To keep your drink low-carb, ask to omit these toppings.

Comparison Table: Almond Latte vs. Dairy Milk Latte Carbs

This table illustrates the significant carb differences between a latte made with unsweetened almond milk and one made with traditional dairy milk, based on a single serving size. Note that these are approximations and can vary by brand.


Feature	Unsweetened Almond Latte	Sweetened Almond Latte	Dairy Milk Latte (2% Milk)
Milk Used	Unsweetened Almond Milk	Sweetened Almond Milk	2% Cow's Milk
Carbs (per cup)	~1–4g	~13–16g	~12g
Added Sugar	None	High (e.g., cane sugar)	Natural (Lactose)
Best for Keto?	Yes	No	No
Customization Impact	High, if adding sugary syrups	High, adds to already high carb count	High, if adding sugary syrups

Creating Your Own Low-Carb Almond Latte at Home

For total control over your carb intake, preparing your almond latte at home is the best method. This allows you to choose your ingredients, portion sizes, and sweeteners precisely.

Select Your Base: Start with a strong espresso or highly brewed coffee as your base. Choose a high-quality, unsweetened almond milk brand, checking the label to confirm the carb count.
Add Flavor (Optional): If you desire sweetness, use a keto-friendly sweetener such as stevia, erythritol, or monk fruit extract. For flavors like vanilla or hazelnut, opt for sugar-free syrups. You can also add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a low-carb spice.
Froth to Perfection: Heat your unsweetened almond milk gently on the stove or in the microwave. Use a handheld milk frother, immersion blender, or a French press to create a creamy froth.
Combine and Enjoy: Pour your frothed milk over the espresso and enjoy your low-carb almond latte.

The Bottom Line on Almond Latte Carbs

So, does an almond latte have carbs? Yes, but the amount is highly variable. If you use unsweetened almond milk and avoid sugary syrups, it can be an exceptionally low-carb beverage, making it a great choice for those on keto or simply trying to reduce sugar intake. Conversely, a latte made with sweetened almond milk and flavored syrup can be loaded with sugar and carbs, similar to or even exceeding a dairy-based latte. The key is to be mindful of your ingredient choices and to ask questions when ordering from a coffee shop to ensure your drink aligns with your dietary needs. Healthline provides a deeper dive into almond milk's nutritional profile and benefits.

Nutritional Considerations Beyond Carbs

While carbs are a primary concern for many, especially keto dieters, it's also important to consider the broader nutritional profile of an almond latte. Almond milk is a good source of vitamin E and, when fortified, provides calcium and vitamin D. However, it is significantly lower in protein than cow's milk, which is something to be aware of if you rely on milk for protein. For those with nut allergies, it is essential to avoid almond milk and consider other low-carb, nut-free alternatives like hemp milk or coconut milk beverages.

Frequently Asked Questions

An unsweetened almond latte is very low in carbs. For a standard size, you can expect the carb count to be in the single digits, likely 1 to 4 grams, depending on the brand of almond milk used.

A standard Starbucks almond milk latte can have a moderate carb count, depending on the size and whether any added sweeteners or syrups are included. For a low-carb option, specify unsweetened almond milk and request sugar-free syrup.

The largest source of carbs in a sweetened almond latte comes from added sugars, either in the form of sweetened almond milk or flavored syrups. A single cup of sweetened almond milk can contain over 12 grams of carbs.

Yes, an almond milk latte is suitable for a keto diet, but only if you use unsweetened almond milk and sugar-free flavorings. Sweetened almond milk will likely exceed your daily carb limit.

An unsweetened almond latte typically has a lower carb count than a regular latte made with dairy milk. A cup of 2% cow's milk contains around 12 grams of carbs (lactose), while unsweetened almond milk has only a few grams.

To reduce carbs, explicitly ask for unsweetened almond milk and specify that you want sugar-free syrups. Always avoid any added toppings like whipped cream or drizzles, which contain extra sugar.

No, the carb count for almond milk can vary by brand. It is always important to check the nutritional information on the packaging, as some unsweetened varieties may contain slightly more or fewer carbs.

It is generally not recommended to use sweetened almond milk on a low-carb diet due to its high sugar and carbohydrate content. It can easily use up a significant portion of your daily carb allowance.