How Many Calories Are in a Cappuccino with No Sugar?

December 26, 2025 •

3 min read

A standard cappuccino made with skim milk and no added sugar typically contains around 70 to 80 calories. The exact number of calories in a cappuccino with no sugar depends almost entirely on the type of milk chosen, with whole milk options containing significantly more.

Quick Summary

A cappuccino without added sugar has calories derived almost exclusively from the milk used. The calorie count varies with the milk type; skim milk yields the lowest calories, while whole milk results in a higher count. Espresso adds a minimal amount of calories.

Key Points

Milk Type Matters: The calories in a no-sugar cappuccino are almost entirely determined by the type of milk used, from skim to whole.
Skim Milk is Lowest: Opting for skim milk results in the lowest calorie count, often around 70-80 calories for a standard small cup.
Whole Milk Adds More: A cappuccino made with whole milk contains significantly more calories due to its higher fat content.
Espresso is Negligible: The espresso shot itself contributes a minimal amount of calories, typically 1 to 3 calories.
Size and Proportions: Serving size also affects the total calorie count, as larger cappuccinos contain more milk.
Foam Helps Reduce Calories: Cappuccinos have a higher proportion of foam (air) than lattes, which can lead to slightly fewer calories for a similarly sized drink.
Natural Sugars Exist: Even with no added sugar, the milk still contains natural lactose, a source of carbohydrates and calories.

The Core Components of a No-Sugar Cappuccino

A traditional cappuccino is a simple and delicious beverage consisting of three main parts: espresso, steamed milk, and a thick layer of milk foam. When you order one with "no sugar," you are simply removing any added sweeteners, syrups, or toppings. However, it's crucial to remember that even without added sugar, the milk itself contains natural sugars in the form of lactose, which contributes to the overall calorie count. The espresso base, in contrast, adds a nearly negligible amount of calories, often only 1 to 3 calories per shot.

Calorie Breakdown by Milk Type

The most significant factor influencing the calorie count of a no-sugar cappuccino is the milk. Different milk types have varying levels of fat and, consequently, calories. Choosing your milk wisely is key to controlling the calorie content of your favorite coffee drink.

Skim Milk: The Low-Calorie Choice

For those watching their calorie intake, skim milk is the optimal choice. It offers the creamy texture and foam necessary for a great cappuccino but with the lowest fat content. A small cappuccino (around 220ml) made with skim milk and no added sugar typically has approximately 70-72 calories.

Reduced-Fat Milk: The Middle Ground

For a slightly creamier consistency than skim milk, reduced-fat (or semi-skimmed) milk is a popular option. It falls in the middle of the calorie spectrum. A small cappuccino prepared with reduced-fat milk and no added sugar often contains about 88 calories.

Whole Milk: The Creamiest, Highest-Calorie Option

Using whole milk results in the richest, most decadent texture, but it also comes with the highest calorie count. A small cappuccino made with whole milk and no added sugar can have anywhere from 80 to 121 calories, depending on the exact proportions and milk brand.

Comparison of Cappuccino Calories by Milk Type


Milk Type	Approximate Calories (Small Cappuccino)	Primary Calorie Source
Skim Milk	70-72	Lactose (Natural Sugar)
Reduced-Fat Milk	~88	Fat and Lactose
Whole Milk	80-121	Fat and Lactose
Unsweetened Almond Milk	~50	Trace amounts of carbs and fat
Espresso (no milk)	1-3	Negligible

Tips for Reducing Cappuccino Calories

If you want to keep your cappuccino as light as possible, follow these simple guidelines:

Choose skim milk: This is the most effective way to minimize calories while still enjoying a classic cappuccino.
Specify no syrups or flavorings: Even a "sugar-free" syrup may contain additional calories from artificial sweeteners or other ingredients.
Avoid whipped cream or toppings: A dusting of cocoa is minimal, but whipped cream can significantly increase the calorie and fat content.
Go smaller: A smaller cup size means less milk and, therefore, fewer calories overall.
Opt for non-dairy alternatives: Unsweetened non-dairy milks like almond milk can offer a lower-calorie base, though the flavor and froth may differ.

Is a Cappuccino Healthier Than Other Coffee Drinks?

Compared to other milk-based coffee beverages, a traditional cappuccino can be a lower-calorie option. This is because it is composed of equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam, meaning less liquid milk than a latte of the same size. Lattes, by comparison, are made with more steamed milk and a thinner layer of foam, resulting in more calories from the milk. The key is to order a traditional cappuccino rather than a large, oversized version commonly found in many coffee shops, which will contain more milk and calories. For more information on the nutritional value of different milk types, you can consult resources like Dairy.com.au.

Conclusion

The number of calories in a cappuccino with no sugar is predominantly dependent on the type of milk used. By choosing skim milk, you can enjoy this classic espresso drink for around 70-80 calories. Reduced-fat and whole milk options, while creamier, will increase the calorie count. The espresso base itself adds a negligible amount. So, for a low-calorie treat, stick to a skim milk cappuccino and enjoy the rich, bold flavor of the espresso without the added guilt of excess calories.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, it contains lactose, the natural sugar found in milk, which contributes to the overall calorie count. The "no sugar" specification refers only to added sweeteners.

For a dairy-based cappuccino, skim milk is the lowest-calorie option. For a non-dairy alternative, unsweetened almond milk is often one of the lowest calorie choices.

Typically, yes. A traditional cappuccino contains a higher proportion of milk foam than a latte, which means less steamed milk and therefore fewer calories for the same size.

A small cappuccino made with skim milk and no added sugar contains approximately 70-72 calories, depending on the exact proportions of milk and espresso.

No, not significantly. An espresso shot contains a minimal amount of calories (1-3), so the number of shots will have a negligible effect on the total calorie count.

The calories for non-dairy milks vary significantly by type and brand. Unsweetened almond milk is generally lower in calories than dairy milk, while oat or soy milk may be comparable or higher depending on the specific product.

Adding a sugar-free syrup will keep the calories very low, though it may contain small amounts of calories from thickeners or other ingredients. Check the nutritional information for the specific syrup you are using.

Yes. A larger cappuccino uses more milk, which is the primary source of calories. A small skim cappuccino might have around 70 calories, while a large one could have over 90.