How many calories are in coffee with oat milk without sugar?

January 13, 2026 •

3 min read

A cup of plain black coffee contains a negligible number of calories, typically around 2-5. The vast majority of calories in a coffee drink come from added ingredients like milk, syrups, and sugar, which is why knowing how many calories are in coffee with oat milk without sugar is so important for health-conscious consumers.

Quick Summary

The calorie count for coffee with unsweetened oat milk depends on the quantity and brand of oat milk used, with a single cup generally ranging from 80 to 160 calories. Black coffee has a minimal caloric impact, meaning the oat milk is the primary calorie contributor.

Key Points

Black coffee contributes almost no calories: The caloric value of the beverage comes almost entirely from the oat milk used, not the coffee itself.
Calorie count varies by brand and amount: A standard cup of coffee with unsweetened oat milk can contain 80 to 160 calories, depending on the portion size and the specific oat milk brand's formulation.
Barista blends are higher in calories: Oat milk formulated for frothing, often called barista editions, typically has a higher fat and calorie content than standard unsweetened versions.
Oat milk can be a heart-healthy choice: Many brands are fortified with vitamins and contain beta-glucan fiber, which can help lower cholesterol.
Portion control is key: Measuring your oat milk intake at home is the most effective way to manage and reduce the overall calorie count of your coffee.
Different milks have different calories: Unsweetened oat milk is generally lower in calories than whole dairy milk but higher than unsweetened almond milk.

Understanding the Calorie Count

When determining how many calories are in coffee with oat milk without sugar, the oat milk itself is the only significant factor. Black coffee is virtually calorie-free, with a standard cup containing less than 5 calories. The caloric value comes almost entirely from the amount and type of oat milk added. Most unsweetened oat milks contain between 110 and 130 calories per 8-ounce (240ml) serving, though this can vary by brand and product type.

Why Oat Milk Calories Vary

Not all oat milk is created equal. The calorie content can differ significantly based on a few key factors:

Brand Formulation: Some brands add extra ingredients like oil to create a richer, creamier texture, which can increase the calorie count. Barista blends, for example, are often formulated with extra fat for better frothing, making them higher in calories than standard unsweetened versions.
Serving Size: The final calorie count is directly proportional to the amount of oat milk you use. A simple splash in your morning drip coffee will have a lower impact than a full-size oat milk latte.
Sweetened vs. Unsweetened: While the keyword specifies 'without sugar,' it's crucial to be mindful when purchasing. Some oat milks contain added sugars and sweeteners that dramatically increase the calorie count. Always check the nutrition label to confirm it's an unsweetened variety.

Calorie Comparison: Oat Milk vs. Other Milks

To put the calorie count of unsweetened oat milk coffee into context, it's helpful to compare it to other common milk options. The table below illustrates the approximate calories for a standard-sized latte (about 16oz or 473ml) based on the milk used, assuming no added sugar or flavorings.


Milk Type	Approximate Calories (16oz Latte)
Unsweetened Oat Milk	160
Whole Dairy Milk	228
Skimmed Dairy Milk	90
Almond Milk (Unsweetened)	80
Soy Milk (Unsweetened)	160

As the table shows, unsweetened oat milk tends to be higher in calories than skim dairy milk or unsweetened almond milk but is comparable to or lower than whole dairy milk and soy milk.

Practical Ways to Control Calories

If you're tracking your calorie intake, you don't have to give up your morning coffee with oat milk. Here are some actionable tips to manage the calorie content:

Measure your milk: Instead of free-pouring, use a measuring cup. A few extra ounces can add a significant number of calories over time.
Use less milk: Opt for a stronger coffee-to-milk ratio. A dash of oat milk in a drip coffee is far lower in calories than a milky latte.
Choose the right brand: Compare nutrition labels. Different brands of unsweetened oat milk can have slightly different calorie counts. Choose the one that best fits your dietary goals.
Make it at home: Preparing your coffee at home gives you complete control over ingredients and portion sizes. This is a great way to avoid the often high-calorie barista blends used in cafes.

Health Benefits of Oat Milk

Beyond its calorie content, unsweetened oat milk offers several potential health benefits:

Dairy-Free: It is an excellent alternative for individuals with lactose intolerance or those following a vegan diet.
Source of Fiber: Oat milk contains beta-glucan, a type of soluble fiber known to help lower cholesterol levels.
Lower in Saturated Fat: Compared to whole dairy milk, oat milk is lower in saturated fat, making it a heart-friendly option.
Fortified Nutrients: Many brands are fortified with essential vitamins and minerals like calcium, vitamin D, and B12.

Conclusion

The calorie count for a coffee with unsweetened oat milk is not a single, fixed number but is primarily determined by the quantity and specific brand of oat milk used. For an average-sized beverage, you can expect the calorie range to fall between 80 and 160, making it a viable and often lower-calorie alternative to coffee made with whole dairy milk. By being mindful of serving size and brand choice, you can easily control the caloric impact of your daily coffee ritual.

For more detailed nutritional information and comparison of various milk types, you can consult reputable health and nutrition websites. This article from Women's Health provides expert insights into coffee and fasting.

The takeaway

Ultimately, understanding the calorie content of your coffee comes down to the amount and brand of oat milk. By being a mindful consumer and checking labels, you can enjoy your oat milk coffee guilt-free and in line with your health goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Unsweetened oat milk generally has a higher calorie count than unsweetened almond milk. A standard cup of unsweetened oat milk contains about 120-130 calories, while the same amount of unsweetened almond milk contains only around 40-50 calories.

Yes, adding any kind of milk, including oat milk, will technically break a fast because it contains calories. For those practicing intermittent fasting, plain black coffee or an Americano is recommended to stay in a fasted state.

The health benefits depend on your specific dietary needs. Unsweetened oat milk is dairy-free and lower in saturated fat than whole cow's milk. It also contains fiber. However, skim or low-fat cow's milk can be lower in calories than oat milk. Always compare nutritional information.

A small splash of unsweetened oat milk, approximately one ounce (30ml), would add around 15-20 calories to your coffee. This is a very low-calorie way to add some creaminess to your drink.

Yes, most cafes offer unsweetened oat milk as an option and have sugar-free syrups. However, be aware that barista-style oat milk used for frothing may still be higher in calories due to added oils, so the calorie count might be higher than a homemade version.

No, adding oat milk only affects the calorie and nutrient content of your coffee, not the amount of caffeine. The caffeine content remains the same as in black coffee.

To reduce calories, measure your oat milk to control the portion size, opt for a standard unsweetened brand instead of a barista blend, and consider using less milk for a stronger coffee flavor. If you're a cafe regular, making your coffee at home is the best way to have full control over the ingredients.