Understanding the Calories in a Starbucks Small Latte
When you order a latte at Starbucks, the default 'small' size is an 8 fl oz Short size. For many, this is a perfect morning treat, but the calorie count is not a one-size-fits-all number. The primary driver of calories in a latte comes from the milk, as a shot of espresso contains minimal calories on its own. By understanding your milk options and potential modifications, you can take control of your beverage's nutritional profile.
The Impact of Milk Choices
The most significant factor influencing your small latte's calorie content is the type of milk you choose. Starbucks offers several options, each with a different fat and sugar content. Whole milk will provide the creamiest, richest flavor but comes with the highest calorie count, while alternatives like almond or skim milk are a more diet-friendly choice.
- Whole Milk: A standard 8 fl oz Short caffe latte with whole milk has roughly 115 calories. This is because whole milk contains the highest fat content, which contributes most of the calories.
- 2% Milk: The standard option for a Starbucks caffe latte, the 8 fl oz Short size made with 2% milk has approximately 100 calories. This is a good middle ground for many customers, offering some creaminess with fewer calories than whole milk.
- Nonfat Milk: Opting for nonfat (or skim) milk significantly reduces the calorie and fat content. An 8 fl oz Short latte made with nonfat milk contains around 65 calories.
- Almond Milk: For a dairy-free option, almond milk is an excellent low-calorie choice. An 8 fl oz Short latte with almond milk has only about 50 calories.
- Oat Milk: With its growing popularity, oat milk is another non-dairy option. An 8 fl oz Short latte with oat milk will have around 54 calories per 100ml, which translates to a higher overall calorie count than almond milk for the same size.
Flavoring and Other Add-Ins
While the milk is the main calorie contributor, any additional flavorings or toppings will increase the total. A single pump of a standard flavored syrup contains around 20 calories and 5 grams of sugar. For a Short latte, which typically has 2 pumps of syrup, this adds an extra 40 calories.
Here are a few ways extras can affect your small latte:
- Regular Syrups: A Short Vanilla Latte with 2% milk contains 100 calories. The vanilla syrup adds to the total count. Choosing a sugar-free version is a simple way to eliminate these calories.
- Sugar-Free Syrups: Starbucks offers sugar-free syrups, such as Vanilla and Cinnamon Dolce, which add flavor without the extra calories. A sugar-free vanilla latte with almond milk and 2 pumps can be as low as 70 calories for a Short size.
- Whipped Cream: This indulgent topping adds a significant amount of calories and fat. Skipping the whipped cream is a key step in reducing the total calorie count.
- Extra Sweeteners: Adding sugar packets or other caloric sweeteners further increases the calorie and sugar count.
Comparison of Starbucks Small Latte Calories
To make it easy to compare, here is a table detailing the approximate calorie count for a standard 8 fl oz Short latte with various milk options.
| Milk Type | Standard Latte (approx. calories) | Flavored Latte w/ Syrup (approx. calories) |
|---|---|---|
| Whole Milk | 115 | 155 (e.g., vanilla) |
| 2% Milk | 100 | 140 (e.g., vanilla) |
| Nonfat Milk | 65 | 105 (e.g., vanilla) |
| Almond Milk | 50 | 90 (e.g., vanilla) |
| Oat Milk | ~54 (per 100ml) | ~110 (with syrup) |
| Nonfat w/ SF Syrup | ~65 | ~65 |
Note: Flavored latte calculations assume two pumps of standard syrup.
The Easiest Way to Reduce Calories
For those looking to enjoy a latte with minimal calories, the best strategy is to start with the base and build up. Begin with a Short size, use a low-calorie milk, and opt for sugar-free syrups. The difference between a whole milk latte with syrup and a nonfat latte with sugar-free syrup can be over 90 calories, which is a meaningful reduction for someone tracking their intake.
Consider ordering a Short Caffe Americano with a splash of almond milk and a sugar-free syrup for an even lower calorie option. An Americano is simply espresso and water, keeping the calorie count close to zero before customization. A splash of milk adds a minimal amount of calories while still providing a creamy texture.
Conclusion
A Starbucks small latte can range from a very low-calorie beverage to a more indulgent treat, all depending on your choice of milk and add-ins. A Short caffe latte with almond milk contains the fewest calories at approximately 50 calories, while one with whole milk is more than double that. By making smart swaps, like choosing a lower-fat milk or sugar-free syrup, you can easily control your calorie intake without sacrificing your daily coffee ritual. Always check the official Starbucks nutritional information or the in-store menu for the most accurate and up-to-date data for your specific order. For more tips on reducing calories in your favorite coffee drinks, see this guide to healthier Starbucks choices.
