How many calories are in a single espresso?

January 3, 2026 •

3 min read

According to nutritional data, a standard single espresso shot contains a remarkably low 2 to 3 calories. This minimal number comes from the trace amounts of carbohydrates naturally found in the ground coffee beans. For those counting, knowing how many calories are in a single espresso is key to enjoying this concentrated brew guilt-free.

Quick Summary

A single espresso shot contains a minimal 2-3 calories. This negligible amount is largely due to its water base and lack of additives. The calorie count significantly increases with the addition of milk, sugar, syrups, or other flavourings, dramatically changing the drink's nutritional profile.

Key Points

Single espresso calorie count: A standard shot has only 2-3 calories, making it a very low-calorie beverage option.
Source of calories: The minimal calories in pure espresso come from trace amounts of carbohydrates and protein naturally present in coffee beans.
Additives dramatically increase calories: The calorie count significantly rises with the addition of milk, sugar, syrups, and cream, as shown by comparing plain espresso to lattes, cappuccinos, and mochas.
Diet-friendly choice: When consumed black, espresso is a healthy, antioxidant-rich drink that provides a caffeine boost without contributing significant calories to your diet.
Low-calorie alternatives: For those who dislike black coffee, opting for low-fat milk, sugar-free syrups, or spices like cinnamon can help reduce the overall calorie intake.
Watch for hidden sugars: Be mindful of pre-made coffee drinks or syrups that are often loaded with hidden sugars, as these can quickly turn a low-calorie espresso into a high-calorie treat.

The Surprising Truth About Espresso's Calorie Count

Espresso, in its purest form, is a concentrated and powerful beverage. It is made by forcing hot, high-pressure water through finely-ground coffee beans, resulting in a small, potent shot. The brewing process itself, using only water and coffee, is why the calorie count is so low. These trace calories originate from minute amounts of protein and carbohydrates in the coffee beans, which are extracted during the brewing process.

What Adds Calories to an Espresso?

While a single espresso on its own is a diet-friendly option, the calorie count can skyrocket with additions. A plain espresso is typically served 'neat,' but many popular coffee beverages are built on this concentrated base. This is where hidden calories can sabotage dietary goals. Understanding the calorie cost of different additions is essential for making informed choices.

Milk: Adding milk is the quickest way to increase calories. The fat content of the milk is the primary determinant. A standard latte or cappuccino will have significantly more calories than a black espresso.
Sugar and Syrups: A single teaspoon of sugar can add 15-20 calories. Flavored syrups, which are essentially liquid sugar, add even more. A single pump of vanilla syrup can add up to 20 calories or more, depending on the brand.
Creamers: Rich, fatty creamers add not just calories but saturated fat. Heavy cream will add a substantial amount, while low-fat or plant-based creamers will add fewer, but still increase the total count.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on a specialty espresso drink can add 50-100 calories or more, plus a dose of fat and sugar.

Comparison Table: Espresso vs. Popular Coffee Drinks

To illustrate the impact of these additions, here is a comparison of the calorie counts for a single espresso versus common espresso-based beverages. All values are approximate and can vary based on milk fat content, sugar quantity, and portion size.


Drink	Approximate Calorie Count (Single Shot)	Primary Calorie Source
Single Espresso (30ml)	2-3	Coffee beans
Americano	2-3	Coffee beans, water
Cappuccino	60-80	Steamed milk, espresso
Latte	120-150	Steamed milk, espresso
Macchiato	13	Steamed milk, espresso
Flavored Latte	134+	Steamed milk, sugary syrups
Mocha	129+	Steamed milk, chocolate syrup

The Health Benefits of Black Espresso

Beyond its low-calorie nature, a black espresso offers several other benefits that are diminished when other ingredients are added. It is rich in antioxidants, which are compounds that help fight free radicals in the body. Many people also use espresso as a pre-workout beverage, as the caffeine can aid in fat metabolism and boost energy levels. Opting for a plain shot allows you to reap these benefits without the empty calories often found in sugary coffee drinks.

How to Enjoy Espresso with Fewer Calories

If you prefer your coffee with more flavour than a straight shot but want to avoid the extra calories, there are many alternatives. Consider using low-calorie or sugar-free syrups and sweeteners. Instead of full-fat milk, switch to a low-fat or plant-based alternative. A splash of unsweetened almond milk or soy milk can provide a creamy texture with minimal caloric impact. Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cocoa powder can also add flavour without the high-calorie cost of syrups.

Conclusion

To answer the question, a single espresso has a negligible calorie count of 2-3, making it an extremely low-calorie beverage option. The real calorie story of an espresso-based drink is written by its additives. For those who want to watch their intake while still enjoying their coffee, the key is to be mindful of milk, sugar, syrups, and whipped cream. Choosing to drink it black or using low-calorie flavourings and alternatives allows you to indulge in the rich, bold flavour of espresso while keeping your diet goals on track. For more in-depth nutritional information on different foods and beverages, a resource like Nutritionix can be a valuable tool.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, a double shot of espresso has more calories, though still very few. While a single shot has 2-3 calories, a double shot will have approximately 4-5 calories.

The calories in an espresso with milk can vary significantly depending on the type and amount of milk used. A latte, for example, which is primarily milk, can contain 120-150 calories or more.

Yes, flavored espresso drinks are typically high in calories due to the added sugar and syrups. A flavored latte can easily exceed 130 calories.

While espresso itself is low in calories, its caffeine content can boost metabolism and energy, potentially aiding in weight loss when part of a healthy diet and exercise plan.

No, an americano is not high in calories. It is made by adding hot water to an espresso shot, so its calorie count is virtually the same as a plain espresso, at around 2-3 calories.

The calories in a single espresso come from the trace amounts of carbohydrates and protein found naturally in the coffee beans that are extracted during the brewing process.

You can reduce the calories by drinking your espresso black, using low-fat or plant-based milk alternatives, opting for sugar-free syrups, or adding spices instead of sugar.