Does Turkish coffee have any calories?

December 19, 2025 •

3 min read

Plain, unsweetened Turkish coffee contains a negligible number of calories, typically fewer than five per cup, placing it in the same low-calorie category as standard black coffee. However, this count can rise significantly with the addition of sugar, milk, or other flavorings.

Quick Summary

The calorie count of Turkish coffee is minimal, almost zero, when consumed black and unsweetened. Calorie content is determined by any sugar, milk, or additives mixed in during the brewing process.

Key Points

Base Calorie Count: Unsweetened, black Turkish coffee contains very few calories, typically under 5 kcal per small cup.
Additives Determine Calories: The calorie content of Turkish coffee is determined almost entirely by the addition of sugar, milk, or cream, which are typically added during brewing.
Unfiltered Does Not Add Calories: The unique unfiltered brewing method contributes to the coffee's rich flavor and texture but does not add significant calories.
Control Your Intake: To keep Turkish coffee low-calorie, opt for the unsweetened version (sade) and avoid adding sweeteners or dairy.
Health Benefits Remain: The coffee itself is rich in antioxidants, which are present even in the low-calorie, unsweetened form.
Significant Calorie Increase with Sugar: Adding just two teaspoons of sugar can add approximately 33 calories, dramatically altering the drink's nutritional profile.

The Calorie Impact of Unsweetened Turkish Coffee

At its core, a cup of Turkish coffee is nothing more than finely ground coffee beans and water. The calorie contribution from the coffee grounds themselves is remarkably low, clocking in at just a few calories per serving. The ultra-fine grind and unfiltered nature of Turkish coffee result in a thick, rich brew, but they do not add significant calories. For those seeking a genuinely low-calorie beverage, unsweetened Turkish coffee is an excellent choice. This version allows you to enjoy the robust, intense flavors and aromas of the beans without the caloric burden associated with modern, often sweetened, coffee drinks.

The Additive Effect: Where Calories Come From

The addition of sugar is the most common way to increase the calories in Turkish coffee. Unlike many other coffee preparations where sugar is added after brewing, it is mixed in with the coffee and water in the cezve (or ibrik) before heating. The amount of sugar determines the calorie count and sweetness level, which in Turkish culture can be categorized as sade (plain/unsweetened), orta şekerli (medium sweet), or çok şekerli (very sweet). Each teaspoon of sugar adds approximately 16 calories. Similarly, adding milk instead of water during the brewing process adds calories from fat and protein.

A Closer Look at Turkish Coffee Preparation and Calories

To understand why additives are the primary source of calories, it helps to review the traditional brewing process. This method, involving a special long-handled pot called a cezve, is what gives Turkish coffee its unique character.

Steps to Prepare Turkish Coffee:

Measure Water: Fill a small coffee cup with cold water for each serving, then pour the water into the cezve.
Add Coffee and Sugar: Add 1-2 teaspoons of extra-fine ground coffee per cup, along with the desired amount of sugar. Stir briefly.
Heat Gently: Place the cezve over low heat. The foam will begin to rise as it heats, but the liquid should not come to a rolling boil.
Distribute Foam: As the foam rises, use a spoon to distribute it evenly among the serving cups.
Final Pour: Return the pot to the heat for a second foam rise, then pour the remaining coffee into the cups, leaving the settled grounds behind.

Because the ingredients are limited to coffee grounds, water, and optional sugar or milk, the calorie source is easy to identify and control. Those monitoring their calorie intake can simply opt for the sade version to enjoy the authentic experience without the added calories.

Comparison: Turkish Coffee vs. Other Drinks

To illustrate the calorie impact of additives, let's compare different coffee preparations. This table highlights how the base coffee is consistently low-calorie, while extras are responsible for the caloric increase.


Drink (Serving Size)	Calories (Unsweetened)	Common Additions	Approximate Calories (With Additions)
Turkish Coffee (approx. 2 oz)	2-5 calories	1-2 tsp sugar	~20-37 calories
Espresso (1 oz shot)	1-3 calories	None	1-3 calories
Drip Black Coffee (8 oz)	2-5 calories	1 tsp sugar + 1 tbsp creamer	~40-50 calories
Caramel Macchiato (8 oz)	N/A	Milk, syrup, caramel sauce	~120 calories

This comparison clearly shows that while the brewing style and concentration of Turkish coffee are unique, its calorie count behaves similarly to other coffee types. The unsweetened version is consistently low-calorie, while the addition of sweeteners or dairy significantly alters the nutritional profile.

Health Benefits Beyond Calorie Counting

Even the unsweetened version of Turkish coffee offers health benefits beyond its low-calorie status. The unfiltered preparation method means it retains a high concentration of beneficial antioxidants and other compounds.

Antioxidants: Helps fight cell damage caused by free radicals.
Metabolism Boost: The caffeine content can temporarily increase metabolic rate, aiding in calorie burning.
Heart Health: Some research suggests coffee consumption may support cardiovascular health.

For a deeper dive into the health implications of coffee in general, the Mayo Clinic provides expert answers on coffee and nutrition.

Conclusion: The Final Calorie Verdict

So, does Turkish coffee have any calories? The answer is yes, but the number is so low in its plain, black form as to be negligible. The crucial factor is what you add to it. By choosing to drink it sade (unsweetened), you can enjoy this centuries-old tradition as a flavorful, near-zero-calorie beverage. If you add sugar, milk, or other flavorings, you must account for the additional calories. Ultimately, Turkish coffee remains a healthy, low-calorie choice, provided you control the added ingredients. The unfiltered brewing provides a potent, full-bodied experience that delivers its unique character and health benefits without needing extra calories.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, unsweetened Turkish coffee is not completely calorie-free, but it is extremely low in calories, with a standard cup containing fewer than five calories.

The calories in sweetened Turkish coffee depend on the amount of sugar added. For example, adding two teaspoons of sugar increases the calorie count by about 33 calories.

Yes, substituting water with milk or adding milk to Turkish coffee will increase the calorie count due to the milk's fat and protein content.

No, the extra-fine grind of Turkish coffee and the unfiltered grounds do not significantly contribute to the calorie count. The grounds themselves are negligible in caloric value.

A small cup of black Turkish coffee and an espresso shot are comparable in their low calorie content. Additives, not the base coffee, are the primary source of calories in both.

When consumed unsweetened, Turkish coffee is a very low-calorie beverage that can fit into a weight-loss diet. Its caffeine can also temporarily boost metabolism.

You can add calorie-free flavor enhancers like a pinch of cardamom during brewing or a dash of cinnamon after pouring. Always be mindful of adding milk or sugar substitutes that may have hidden calories.

The brewing method itself does not add calories. However, traditional preparation dictates when and how ingredients like sugar are added, which directly impacts the final calorie count.