How Many Calories Are in a Drizzle of Honey?

November 5, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the USDA, one tablespoon of honey contains roughly 64 calories. Given that a "drizzle" is a less precise measurement, determining how many calories are in a drizzle of honey requires understanding volume comparisons and typical usage, which often falls between a teaspoon and a tablespoon.

Quick Summary

A drizzle of honey, generally equivalent to about one teaspoon, contains approximately 20-21 calories. This estimate varies slightly based on the honey's density and how generously it's poured, but provides a practical guide for calorie-conscious individuals.

Key Points

A Drizzle is About a Teaspoon: A typical drizzle of honey contains approximately 21 calories, based on the common assumption that a drizzle is about one teaspoon.
Varies by Volume: Since "drizzle" is an unstandardized measurement, the actual calorie count depends on how much you pour; a generous drizzle could easily be two teaspoons or more.
Honey is Primarily Sugar: The calories in honey come almost entirely from its sugar content (fructose and glucose), with a typical tablespoon having around 17 grams of sugar.
Raw vs. Processed: The caloric content is very similar in both raw and processed honey, although raw honey may retain more antioxidants and beneficial compounds.
Portion Control is Crucial: For calorie-conscious individuals, using a measuring teaspoon instead of free-pouring is the most effective way to manage honey intake.
Trace Nutrients and Antioxidants: While not a significant source of vitamins or minerals in typical serving sizes, honey contains trace amounts and beneficial antioxidants.

Understanding the 'Drizzle' Measurement

Unlike standardized kitchen units like teaspoons (tsp) and tablespoons (tbsp), a "drizzle" is an informal and subjective measurement. For most home cooks, a drizzle typically equates to a quick pour, usually falling somewhere in the range of one to two teaspoons. A conservative estimate places a standard drizzle closer to one teaspoon. Therefore, understanding the calorie count of a teaspoon of honey is the most reliable way to determine the caloric impact of your drizzle.

The Calorie Content of Honey

Honey is a natural sweetener primarily composed of sugars, namely fructose and glucose, with trace amounts of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The caloric value is relatively consistent across different types, whether it's raw, processed, or a specialty variety like clover or buckwheat honey.

One Teaspoon (approx. 7g): Contains about 21 calories. This is the most common and practical reference for a typical drizzle.
One Tablespoon (approx. 21g): Contains about 64 calories. This is useful for those who prefer a more generous drizzle.

Factors Influencing Calorie Count

While the 21-calorie estimate for a teaspoon is a reliable average, several factors can influence the precise number. The density of honey, which can vary slightly depending on its moisture content, can cause minor fluctuations. A thicker, more viscous honey might pack slightly more weight—and thus more calories—into a given volume. Similarly, the specific floral source can affect the sugar profile, though the overall caloric difference is usually negligible.

For those who are meticulous with their calorie counting, using a digital food scale to measure the honey by weight is the most accurate method. Given that one gram of carbohydrate contains 4 calories and honey is approximately 82% carbohydrate, you can calculate the calories precisely. For most people, however, a quick mental calculation based on the teaspoon average is more than sufficient.

Comparison of Sweeteners: Honey vs. Others

When considering sweeteners, it's helpful to see how a drizzle of honey stacks up against other popular options. The following table compares the caloric and sugar content for a standard teaspoon (approximately 5-7 grams) of each sweetener.


Sweetener	Calories per Teaspoon	Sugar per Teaspoon	Notes
Honey	~21	~5.7g	Natural, with trace nutrients and antioxidants.
Table Sugar (Granulated)	~16	~4g	Refined, pure sucrose. Contains no nutrients.
Maple Syrup	~17	~4.5g	Contains minerals like manganese and zinc.
Agave Nectar	~21	~5.2g	Primarily fructose. Sweeter than honey, so less may be needed.
Stevia	0	0	Calorie-free artificial sweetener, no sugar.

As the table shows, honey is slightly higher in calories and sugar per teaspoon compared to table sugar but offers a different flavor profile and trace nutritional benefits. Agave nectar has a similar calorie count but a different sugar composition.

How to Minimize Calories from Honey

For those looking to enjoy the flavor of honey without overdoing the calories, portion control is key. Here are some strategies:

Measure Accurately: Instead of free-pouring, use a measuring teaspoon. This prevents a casual drizzle from becoming a calorie-heavy glug.
Use Less: Because honey is slightly sweeter than sugar by volume, you can often use a smaller amount to achieve the desired sweetness.
Choose Wisely: Use honey to sweeten dishes that already have a rich flavor profile. The complexity of honey can enhance the dish without needing excessive amounts.
Dilute for Spreading: For things like toast, consider mixing a small amount of honey with a low-calorie spread like Greek yogurt or a thin layer of butter to spread the sweetness further.

The Health Benefits and Drawbacks of Honey

Honey has long been revered for its health benefits, but it is still a form of added sugar and should be consumed in moderation. The health-promoting plant compounds found in honey, such as antioxidants, are often cited as a benefit, particularly in darker, less processed varieties. Honey also has historical use as a topical antiseptic and cough suppressant. However, the American Heart Association recommends that most women consume no more than 6 teaspoons of total added sugar per day, which is about the amount in three drizzles of honey.

Conclusion: The Drizzle in Perspective

When you ask "how many calories are in a drizzle of honey?", the answer depends on your definition of a drizzle. If you're a heavy-handed pourer, it could be closer to 40 calories or more. For most people, equating a drizzle to a single teaspoon (approx. 21 calories) is a safe and practical approach. This small caloric contribution is a minor concern for most people and is a worthwhile indulgence for the flavor and natural properties honey provides. The key, as with all sweeteners, is mindful consumption and portion control. By measuring your drizzles and being aware of their caloric impact, you can enjoy honey as a healthier alternative to refined sugars without derailing your dietary goals.

For more information on the nutritional aspects of honey, the USDA's food database is an excellent resource, detailing everything from vitamins to mineral content.

The Takeaway

Typical Drizzle: A single drizzle is typically about a teaspoon, which has roughly 21 calories.

Measurement Accuracy: A "drizzle" is an informal measure, so actual calories can vary based on the amount poured.

Type of Honey: The calorie content is similar across different honey types, with minor variations in sweetness and trace nutrients.

Comparison: Honey contains slightly more calories and sugar than table sugar per teaspoon, but less than an equivalent drizzle of maple syrup.

Portion Control is Key: To manage calories, it's best to measure your honey instead of free-pouring, especially if you are tracking your intake closely.

Nutritional Context: Despite some benefits from antioxidants, honey is still a source of added sugar and should be consumed in moderation.

Healthy Habit: Using a little less honey due to its higher sweetness can help reduce overall sugar and calorie intake.

Frequently Asked Questions

The simplest method is to estimate that your drizzle is equivalent to one teaspoon, which contains about 21 calories. For better accuracy, pour your drizzle into a measuring spoon to see if it's a teaspoon, more, or less, or use a food scale for a precise gram measurement.

While honey varieties differ in flavor and antioxidant levels, their calorie count per teaspoon is very similar, with an average of around 20-21 calories. The sugar composition is the main driver of calories, and that doesn't change significantly between types.

Honey and table sugar have a similar caloric density, though honey has slightly more calories per teaspoon. While honey offers trace antioxidants, its main component is sugar. The key health consideration is moderate consumption, regardless of the sweetener.

A teaspoon of honey has about 21 calories, while a teaspoon of maple syrup has slightly less at approximately 17 calories. However, honey is sweeter, meaning you might use a smaller amount to achieve the same level of sweetness.

Both are informal terms. A 'drizzle' suggests a fine, controlled stream, often equating to about a teaspoon. A 'glug' implies a much larger, less precise pour, often signifying a more generous amount or a tablespoon or more.

Yes, honey can be included in a calorie-restricted diet as long as it's factored into your daily calorie budget. A drizzle or two (40-60 calories) can be a flavorful addition without causing significant impact, provided it's used in moderation.

Heating honey, such as in cooking or baking, does not change its caloric content. However, very high heat can degrade some of the trace enzymes and antioxidants that are present in raw honey.