How many calories are in a 16 oz Americano?

December 20, 2025 •

3 min read

According to nutritional data from major coffeehouse chains, a plain, 16 oz Americano made with just espresso and water contains a minimal number of calories, typically ranging from 10 to 20. The exact number of calories in a 16 oz Americano can vary slightly depending on the specific coffee beans and preparation, but the key takeaway is that the base drink is extremely low in calories.

Quick Summary

A standard 16 oz Americano has a low calorie count, generally under 20, derived from the espresso. The calorie content is determined by any additions, such as milk or syrups.

Key Points

Plain Americano is Low-Calorie: A standard 16 oz Americano with just espresso and water typically contains 10-20 calories.
Additions are Key: The vast majority of calories in a customized Americano come from added ingredients like milk, sugar, or syrups, not the coffee itself.
Mind Your Milk: Switching from whole milk to skim or a plant-based milk can significantly reduce the calorie count of your drink.
Choose Sugar-Free: Opting for sugar-free syrups and sweeteners is the most effective way to add flavor without a high caloric cost.
Starbucks vs. Dunkin': While both are low-calorie, nutritional information can vary slightly between chains. A Starbucks 16 oz Americano is around 15 calories, while a Dunkin' 16 oz is closer to 10.
Stay Black for Minimal Calories: The simplest way to ensure your Americano remains a low-calorie option is to drink it black, without any additions.

A Plain 16 oz Americano is Remarkably Low in Calories

An Americano is a simple, straightforward coffee drink. It is made by adding hot water to shots of espresso. The calorie content comes almost entirely from the espresso itself, as hot water contains zero calories. A single shot of espresso contains roughly 3 to 5 calories, and a 16 oz Americano often uses two or three shots, depending on the cafe. This places the base calorie count firmly in the low single-digit or low double-digit range.

For example, nutritional information from prominent chains shows that a 16 oz (Grande) plain Caffè Americano from Starbucks contains about 15 calories. Similarly, a large Americano from Dunkin' (approximately 16 oz) lists around 10 calories. This makes it an ideal option for those monitoring their caloric intake.

How Additions Impact the Calorie Count

The low-calorie nature of an Americano changes dramatically once ingredients are added. The majority of the calories in any coffee beverage come from what is put into it after brewing. Understanding how these additions affect the overall calorie count is crucial for making informed choices.

Milk and Cream

Adding dairy or non-dairy products is one of the most common ways to increase the calorie count of an Americano. The amount of increase depends on the type and quantity of milk used.

Splash of Milk: A small splash (about 1 ounce or 30ml) of whole milk can add around 19 calories, while a splash of skim milk adds about 10.
Half-and-Half: A single ounce of half-and-half contains approximately 40 calories.
Whole Milk: A 250ml Americano with whole milk can have around 40 calories.

Sugars and Syrups

Sweeteners are another major source of calories. A single teaspoon of granulated sugar can add 16 calories to your drink. Many cafes use flavored syrups, which can contain even more.

Simple Syrups: A single pump of flavored syrup can add 20 to 50 calories or more, depending on the brand and flavor.
Sugar packets: Each packet of sugar you add will contribute to the total, with each small sachet typically containing 20 to 30 calories.

Whipped Cream and Other Toppings

For those who prefer a richer, more dessert-like experience, toppings can dramatically alter the nutritional profile. Whipped cream is a common addition that packs a significant caloric punch. Two tablespoons of whipped cream can add over 50 calories and 5 grams of fat.

Comparison: Plain Americano vs. Other Coffee Drinks

To illustrate just how low in calories a plain Americano is, here is a comparison table with other popular 16 oz coffee drinks. This comparison highlights why the Americano is a favorite for those aiming for a high caffeine, low-calorie option.


Coffee Drink (approx. 16 oz)	Typical Calories (Plain)	Key Calorie Sources
Americano	10-20	Espresso
Latte	~150-200	Milk
Cappuccino	~80-120	Milk Foam, Milk
Mocha	~200-300+	Milk, Chocolate Syrup, Whipped Cream
Macchiato	~130-180	Milk, Caramel Drizzle

Making Your Americano Healthier

For those who enjoy a customized Americano but want to keep the calorie count low, there are several strategies. Avoiding sugar and opting for sugar-free syrups is one of the most effective methods. When it comes to milk, choosing a low-fat or skim option over whole milk will reduce calories, and using a plant-based alternative like almond milk can further minimize the impact.

List of Low-Calorie Americano Modifications

Use Sugar-Free Syrups: Many cafes offer sugar-free versions of their most popular flavors.
Opt for Skim Milk: If you need a milky flavor, a splash of skim milk adds minimal calories.
Try Plant-Based Milk: Alternatives like unsweetened almond milk are often lower in calories than dairy milk.
Skip the Whipped Cream: Whipped cream is a significant calorie booster. Forgo this topping entirely.
Add Spices Instead of Sugar: A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can add flavor without calories.

Conclusion: The Low-Calorie King

In conclusion, a 16 oz Americano is an excellent choice for a low-calorie caffeine boost. The base drink, made only with espresso and water, contains a negligible number of calories. Any significant caloric increase is a direct result of adding milk, sugars, or other high-calorie flavorings. By being mindful of your additions, you can enjoy this rich and robust coffee drink as a clean, guilt-free part of your daily routine. Understanding the nutritional breakdown of your coffee is a simple but powerful tool for managing your overall health and wellness. For more details on the nutrition of various coffee drinks, see this guide: How Many Calories Are in Your Coffee? 15 Different Drinks.

Frequently Asked Questions

A 16 oz (Grande) plain Caffè Americano from Starbucks contains approximately 15 calories, provided there are no added milk, sugar, or syrups.

No, an iced Americano has the same number of calories as a hot one, provided it is also made with just espresso and water. The only difference is the temperature and the addition of ice, which do not add calories.

A single shot of espresso contains a very small number of calories, typically around 3 to 5 calories. A standard 16 oz Americano is usually made with multiple shots, which accounts for its total calorie count.

The lowest calorie options are typically sugar-free syrups or zero-calorie sweeteners. For a creamy texture, a splash of unsweetened almond milk is generally one of the lowest-calorie milk alternatives.

The number of calories increases depending on the type and amount of milk. For example, a splash of whole milk can add around 19 calories, while a splash of skim milk adds about 10.

Yes, a plain Americano is a great beverage for weight loss. It provides a calorie-free energy boost and can help increase metabolism, especially when consumed without high-calorie additions like sugar or cream.

You can enhance the flavor of an Americano without adding calories by using zero-calorie sweeteners, a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg, or by simply enjoying the nuanced, robust flavor of a high-quality espresso blend.