How Many Calories are in a Cup of Coffee with Semi-Skimmed Milk and 1 Sugar?

December 28, 2025 •

3 min read

A standard cup (240ml) of coffee with semi-skimmed milk and a teaspoon of sugar averages 41 to 51 calories, although this number varies based on exact quantities. The addition of milk and sugar significantly increases the calorie count from the almost-zero calories in black coffee.

Quick Summary

This article calculates the calories in a common cup of coffee with semi-skimmed milk and one sugar, detailing each ingredient's contribution. It also explores factors influencing the total and provides advice on lowering calories without sacrificing taste.

Key Points

Calorie Count: A standard cup of coffee with a splash of semi-skimmed milk and one teaspoon of sugar contains around 34 to 51 calories.
Ingredient Calories: Black coffee adds few calories, while semi-skimmed milk (approx. 15 kcal per 30ml) and one teaspoon of sugar (approx. 16 kcal) are the main contributors.
Cumulative Impact: Daily cups of coffee can impact weight management.
Healthier Options: Use skimmed milk, sugar substitutes like Stevia, or flavorings like cinnamon instead of sugar.
Black Coffee: Offers the lowest calorie option. Adjusting your palate to enjoy a less-sweetened version can be a sustainable long-term strategy.

Understanding the Calorie Breakdown

Calculating the precise calorie count requires looking at the components individually. Black coffee, when brewed without additions, has virtually no calories, typically containing only 2 to 5 calories. Most calories in milky, sweetened coffee come from the milk and sugar.

The Role of Semi-Skimmed Milk

Semi-skimmed milk has some fat removed but retains a creamy texture. This milk adds calories and nutritional value, including protein and calcium. A standard 30ml splash of semi-skimmed milk contributes around 15 calories. However, if using 100ml, the calorie contribution rises to about 46 calories.

The Impact of Sugar

Sugar is a primary source of added calories. The calories per teaspoon can vary, but a standard teaspoon of granulated sugar (about 4 grams) adds around 16 calories to the drink. It quickly increases the drink's energy content without significant nutritional benefits, earning it the 'empty calories' label.

Putting the Components Together

To calculate the total calories, sum up the calories from each component. For a standard cup of brewed coffee with a splash (30ml) of semi-skimmed milk and one teaspoon of sugar, the calculation is:

Black Coffee: ~3 calories
Semi-Skimmed Milk (30ml): ~15 calories
Sugar (1 tsp): ~16 calories

This results in about 34 calories per cup. For a larger mug (240ml) with more milk (60ml), the calorie count increases proportionally.

Comparison of Coffee Add-Ins

Understanding the impact of different choices on calorie intake can help make healthier decisions. The following table compares the approximate calories added by a 30ml serving of different milks and one teaspoon of a sweetener.


Ingredient	Serving Size	Approximate Calories
Black Coffee	1 cup	2-5
Semi-Skimmed Milk	30ml	15
Skimmed Milk	30ml	10
Whole Milk	30ml	20
Unsweetened Almond Milk	30ml	7
Unsweetened Soy Milk	30ml	15-20
Granulated Sugar	1 tsp	16
Stevia	1 sachet	0

How to Reduce Calories in Your Coffee

If watching your calorie intake, there are strategies to make coffee healthier without losing flavor. These tips focus on substituting high-calorie ingredients for lower-calorie alternatives and adjusting consumption habits.

Switch to Skimmed or Plant-Based Milk: Opting for skimmed milk or unsweetened almond milk can lower the calorie count per serving significantly.
Cut Down on Sugar: Sugar calories add up quickly. Reducing the amount helps the palate adjust to the natural coffee taste. You may find less sugar is needed.
Use Natural, Zero-Calorie Sweeteners: Alternatives like Stevia or monk fruit extract provide sweetness without any calories. Use these sparingly, as they are much sweeter than sugar.
Try Spices Instead of Sugar: Adding a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cocoa powder can offer flavor with few to no calories. These spices provide warmth and aroma, enhancing the coffee experience.
Reduce Milk Volume: Instead of filling your cup, use just a small splash. Even a slight reduction can make a difference in your daily calorie consumption.
Choose Black Coffee: The lowest-calorie option is always black coffee. If the taste is difficult, try different roasts or brewing methods, like cold brew, which can have a naturally sweeter flavor profile.

The Health Implications of Sugary Coffee

While a single cup of coffee with semi-skimmed milk and sugar isn't a major issue, the cumulative effect of several daily cups can be significant. Consuming too much added sugar consistently is linked to weight gain, increased heart disease risk, and poor blood sugar control. Being mindful of these additions is a simple step toward a healthier lifestyle.

Conclusion

A cup of coffee with semi-skimmed milk and one sugar adds a relatively modest calorie count, usually around 34-51 calories depending on serving size. However, the impact lies in frequency and portion sizes, with extra teaspoons of sugar or more milk quickly increasing the total. By opting for lower-fat milk, reducing or replacing sugar, and being mindful of intake, you can enjoy your daily brew while keeping health goals on track. The healthiest coffee fits dietary needs and preferences without unnecessary high-calorie additions. For more nutritional information, reliable sources like the USDA database are available online.

Note: All calorie counts are approximate and based on average serving sizes. Specific brands of milk, coffee, and sugar may vary slightly.

Frequently Asked Questions

A regular-sized mug of coffee (approximately 240ml) with semi-skimmed milk and one teaspoon of sugar typically contains around 41 to 51 calories, depending on the exact amounts of milk used.

To reduce calories, switch to skimmed milk or an unsweetened plant-based milk like almond milk. Using a zero-calorie sweetener like Stevia or adding spices such as cinnamon are also effective methods.

Black coffee, without any milk or sugar, is virtually calorie-free, containing only about 2 to 5 calories per cup. The small amount of calories comes from the natural compounds in the coffee beans themselves.

Yes, semi-skimmed milk contains fewer calories and less fat than whole milk. This makes it a better choice for those monitoring their calorie intake, as it provides a similar milky taste with a smaller caloric contribution.

One standard teaspoon of granulated sugar (approximately 4 grams) adds around 16 calories to your coffee. Using a zero-calorie sweetener is an easy way to cut these added calories.

Yes, if not accounted for, the cumulative calories from several daily coffees with milk and sugar can contribute to weight gain over time. The extra sugar intake can also lead to blood sugar spikes and crashes.

Many people prefer zero-calorie sweeteners like Stevia, monk fruit, or erythritol. These options provide sweetness without the calories of regular sugar. Cinnamon and other spices can also be used for a flavorful alternative.