How Many Calories Are in an 8 oz Latte? A Comprehensive Guide

December 11, 2025 •

3 min read

The calorie content of an 8 oz latte varies significantly depending on the type of milk used, with a standard whole milk version containing around 110–136 calories. While a shot of espresso contains almost zero calories, the milk and any added sweeteners are the primary contributors to the final calorie count.

Quick Summary

The calories in an 8 oz latte are dictated by the milk type and optional additives. Options range from 70-90 calories for skim milk to over 130 for whole milk. Understanding these differences allows for more informed beverage choices.

Key Points

Milk is the main source of calories: The number of calories in an 8 oz latte is primarily determined by the fat content of the milk used, as espresso has almost no calories.
Skim milk is the lowest calorie dairy option: An 8 oz latte with skim milk contains roughly 70–90 calories, making it a popular choice for reducing caloric intake.
Whole milk lattes have the most calories: Opting for whole milk can result in a calorie count of 110–136 calories for an 8 oz serving.
Almond milk is the lightest plant-based choice: Unsweetened almond milk offers one of the lowest-calorie non-dairy alternatives, with an 8 oz latte containing around 50–82 calories.
Added syrups and sugar increase calories significantly: Each pump of flavored syrup can add 20–30 calories, while whipped cream adds even more, quickly raising the total calorie count.
DIY and smart ordering reduce calories: Making lattes at home or requesting skim milk, sugar-free syrups, and less foam at cafes can help manage your intake.

Unpacking the Calories in Your Morning Latte

For many, a warm, frothy latte is a daily ritual. However, when monitoring calorie intake, it's crucial to understand where the numbers come from. The short answer to "how many calories are in an 8 oz latte?" depends almost entirely on the milk choice. The core ingredient, espresso, contributes a negligible amount of calories, with the primary caloric load coming from the added milk and any syrups.

The Milks: A Calorie Comparison for Your Latte

Your choice of milk is the single biggest factor in determining the calorie count of an 8 oz latte. Dairy milk options range in fat content, with lower-fat versions naturally having fewer calories. Plant-based milks offer an alternative, but their nutritional profiles also vary.

Whole Milk: The classic choice for a creamy latte, 8 oz of whole milk can contribute around 110–136 calories.
2% Milk: A common substitute, this option slightly reduces the calorie count. An 8 oz serving of 2% milk is roughly 120 calories.
Skim Milk: A popular choice for a "skinny" latte, skim milk drastically cuts the calorie count to approximately 70–90 calories for an 8 oz drink.
Oat Milk: This trendy plant-based milk can have a higher calorie content than other alternatives, with 8 oz often containing 90 calories or more, depending on the brand.
Almond Milk: One of the lowest-calorie milk alternatives, an 8 oz almond milk latte can have as few as 50 calories, especially if using an unsweetened variety.
Soy Milk: Another popular non-dairy option, 8 oz of soy milk in a latte can range from 90–110 calories.

Comparison Table: 8 oz Latte Calories by Milk Type

To better visualize the difference, here is a breakdown of the estimated calories in an 8 oz latte based on the milk used, assuming no added syrups or sugar:


Milk Type	Estimated Calories (8 oz Latte)	Key Takeaway
Whole Milk	110–136 kcal	Highest in calories; very creamy texture.
2% Milk	~100–120 kcal	A popular compromise for texture and calories.
Skim Milk	70–90 kcal	The lowest calorie dairy option; can be less creamy.
Almond Milk	50–82 kcal	Generally the lowest calorie non-dairy option.
Oat Milk	90–130 kcal	Naturally sweeter than almond milk, but can be higher in calories.
Soy Milk	90–110 kcal	A solid non-dairy choice with good protein content.

The Caloric Impact of Additives

While milk is the biggest variable, other additions can quickly increase your latte's calorie count.

Syrups and Flavorings: A single pump of a standard flavored syrup can add 20–30 calories and 5+ grams of sugar. Topping your latte with a pump or two of caramel, vanilla, or other flavors can easily double the total calories.
Whipped Cream: This indulgent addition can add anywhere from 50 to over 100 calories, depending on the amount.
Sweeteners: While natural sugar from milk contributes calories, table sugar adds pure calories with no nutritional benefit. Each teaspoon of sugar adds about 16 calories.

Making Healthier Choices

If you love your latte but want to reduce its caloric impact, here are a few simple strategies:

Choose a "Skinny" Option: Request skim milk to immediately cut a significant number of calories. Many cafes also offer sugar-free syrups for a lower-calorie flavor boost.
Switch to Plant-Based Milk: Opt for unsweetened almond milk for the lowest calorie count, though other alternatives like oat and soy offer different flavor profiles.
Go Light on Syrup: Ask for fewer pumps of flavored syrup or use a sugar-free alternative. A light touch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add flavor without calories.
Order a Misto: A Caffè Misto is brewed coffee with steamed milk, using less milk than a traditional latte. This is a great alternative for those who enjoy a milky coffee flavor.
Brew at Home: Making your own latte gives you total control over the ingredients, allowing you to use low-calorie milk and sweeteners to your preference.

Conclusion

An 8 oz latte is a versatile beverage whose caloric content is highly customizable. By understanding how different milks and added ingredients impact the nutritional information, you can tailor your drink to fit your dietary needs. Whether you prefer the rich creaminess of whole milk or the lighter profile of almond milk, there is an option that can make this coffee classic a mindful part of your daily routine. Informed choices are the key to enjoying your favorite drinks without compromising your health goals. For a deeper dive into the nutritional aspects of various coffee preparations, resources like Healthline provide comprehensive overviews.

Frequently Asked Questions

To make the lowest-calorie 8 oz latte, use unsweetened almond milk and skip any added syrups or sugar. An 8 oz latte made this way can have as few as 50 calories.

Yes, a flavored syrup can add a significant number of calories. A single pump can contain 20–30 calories, so a standard flavored latte with several pumps will have substantially more calories than an unflavored one.

The calories in an 8 oz oat milk latte depend on the brand, but it is typically higher in calories than almond or skim milk. An average oat milk latte can range from 90–130 calories.

The calorie count for hot versus iced lattes is typically the same, assuming the same ingredients are used. The difference comes from the milk and sweeteners, not the temperature.

Compared to other drinks, an 8 oz latte can be more caloric than a plain cappuccino (around 70–120 calories) but less than a mocha (potentially 185+ calories), depending on the milk type. Black coffee has virtually no calories.

The calorie count can differ significantly. A homemade latte allows for precise control over milk type and quantity, often resulting in a lower-calorie drink. Cafe lattes often use standardized, sometimes higher-calorie recipes with more generous pumps of syrup.

Yes, you can include a latte in a low-calorie diet by making mindful choices. Opting for skim milk or unsweetened almond milk and avoiding sugary syrups are key strategies to keep the calorie count low.