Demystifying the Calories: How many calories are in a coconut milk latte?

October 15, 2025 •

4 min read

A grande (16oz) Caffe Latte with coconut milk from Starbucks, a common coffee chain, contains 140 calories. But what determines this number, and how many calories are in a coconut milk latte when prepared differently or from other vendors?

Quick Summary

This guide breaks down the nutritional content of coconut milk lattes, highlighting key factors like milk type, sweeteners, and drink size. Discover how to customize your order or recipe to control calories and sugar content.

Key Points

Calorie Variation: The number of calories in a coconut milk latte varies significantly based on factors like size, milk type (canned vs. carton), and added sweeteners.
Check for Added Sugar: Many barista-style coconut milk brands are sweetened, and flavored syrups can add substantial hidden calories and sugar.
MCTs Offer Benefits: Coconut milk contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) which may aid metabolism, promote satiety, and provide a quick energy source.
Customize for Fewer Calories: To lower calories, choose an unsweetened coconut milk beverage, opt for sugar-free syrups, and skip whipped cream toppings.
Not all Coconut Milk is Equal: Canned coconut milk is very high in fat and calories, while the refrigerated beverage version is much lower in fat and more suitable for lattes.

The Calorie Confusion: Why Numbers Vary

The calorie count of a coconut milk latte is not a fixed number. It can change drastically based on several key factors, which is why you see a wide range of figures online. The primary reason for this variation is the type of coconut milk used, as well as the addition of sweeteners and flavorings. A simple hot coconut milk latte will have a vastly different nutritional profile than a sweetened, iced, or blended specialty drink.

Size and Preparation: The Main Drivers

Coffee shop menus offer various sizes, and the calorie difference is significant. A Starbucks tall (12 oz) iced latte with coconut milk is 70 calories, while a grande (16 oz) hot version is 140 calories, and a venti (20 oz) hot is 170 calories. This escalation is due to the larger volume of milk and, often, more pumps of syrup. At home, you can control the portions entirely. For example, using just a splash of coconut milk beverage instead of a full cup can keep the calories very low.

Canned vs. Carton: A Crucial Distinction

Most people know that not all coconut milk is created equal, but understanding the difference is vital for calorie-conscious consumers. The high-fat coconut milk found in cans is typically used for cooking and curries and is very calorie-dense. The carton or barista-style coconut milk used for beverages is a thinner, lower-calorie, and more consistent option.

Key differences between canned and carton coconut milk:

Canned: Thick, creamy, and high in saturated fat and calories. A single cup can contain over 500 calories.
Carton/Beverage: Thinner, with much lower fat and calorie content. Barista blends are formulated to froth well for lattes.

The Sugar Factor

Sweetened syrups and flavorings are a major source of hidden calories and sugar in many lattes. Some popular brands of barista-style coconut milk are already sweetened, and adding flavored pumps from a coffee shop can compound the issue. To get the most accurate calorie count, ask your barista if their coconut milk is sweetened or opt for a plain latte with unsweetened coconut milk and add your own sugar-free sweetener at home.

Comparison of Milk Options for a Latte


Milk Type	Estimated Calories (8 oz)	Saturated Fat	Notes
Coconut Milk (Carton)	45-80 calories	4-5g	Lower calorie than dairy, contains MCTs. Flavored versions contain added sugar.
Unsweetened Almond Milk	30-40 calories	0g	Very low calorie, often lower than coconut milk. Less creamy and lower protein.
Skim Milk (Dairy)	~90 calories	0g	Contains more protein and calcium than most plant milks.
Whole Milk (Dairy)	~150 calories	5g	Higher fat and calories than plant alternatives but is naturally rich in nutrients.

How to Reduce Calories in a Coconut Milk Latte

For those watching their calorie intake, there are several simple strategies to enjoy your latte without the guilt:

Choose Unsweetened: Opt for an unsweetened coconut milk beverage. This immediately eliminates added sugars that can dramatically increase your drink's calories.
Go Sugar-Free: If you prefer a flavored latte, ask for sugar-free syrup instead of regular. Sugar-free syrups provide flavor without the caloric impact.
Say No to Whipped Cream: This decadent topping can add up to 120 extra calories per drink. Skipping it is one of the easiest ways to cut calories.
Adjust Serving Size: Instead of ordering a large or venti, opt for a small or tall to reduce your milk and syrup intake.
Make it at Home: Brewing your own espresso and controlling the exact ingredients puts you in complete control of the calorie count.

The Health Snapshot: Benefits and Drawbacks

While the calorie content of a coconut milk latte is a key consideration, its overall nutritional value also plays a role in a balanced diet. Coconut milk is a source of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are fats that are easily absorbed and used for energy, potentially boosting metabolism and promoting feelings of fullness. It also contains several vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and potassium, and is naturally lactose-free, making it a viable alternative for those with dairy sensitivities.

However, it's important to consume it in moderation. The American Heart Association advises caution with saturated fats, and while some studies suggest MCTs may differ, regular consumption of high-fat versions could raise LDL cholesterol. The added sugars in sweetened variants also contribute to overall caloric intake, which can lead to weight gain over time if not balanced with other dietary choices.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the number of calories in a coconut milk latte is highly variable and depends on careful consideration of ingredients and size. By understanding the difference between canned and carton coconut milk, being mindful of added sweeteners, and making smart choices at the coffee shop or at home, you can enjoy this creamy, tropical-flavored beverage while keeping your health goals on track. For the lowest-calorie option, choose an unsweetened coconut milk base, skip the flavored syrups, and opt for a smaller size. The ability to customize makes the coconut milk latte a versatile option for many different dietary needs.

Visit Medical News Today for more information on the benefits and risks of coconut milk.

Frequently Asked Questions

The calories vary by size. For example, a grande (16 oz) hot coconut milk latte from Starbucks contains around 140 calories, while a tall (12 oz) iced version has approximately 70 calories.

Unsweetened almond milk typically has fewer calories than barista-style coconut milk. For instance, Starbucks' almond milk has ~60 calories per 8 oz, while their coconut milk has ~80 calories.

Canned coconut milk is significantly higher in calories due to its high fat content. Refrigerated carton or beverage-style coconut milk is a much lower-calorie option suitable for drinks.

To reduce sugar, ask for unsweetened coconut milk, use sugar-free syrups for flavoring, and avoid toppings like whipped cream that often contain added sugar.

A latte made with unsweetened coconut milk and no added sugar is generally considered keto-friendly. Its higher fat content from MCTs and low carb count fit the diet's macronutrient requirements.

Coconut milk is a lactose-free, plant-based alternative that contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which can provide energy and support metabolism. It also has various vitamins and minerals.

Black coffee contains very few calories (around 5 calories per cup). The calories in a coconut milk latte come from the coconut milk itself and any added sweeteners or syrups.