How many calories are in one small latte? Your ultimate guide

December 13, 2025 •

4 min read

The calorie count of a small latte is not a fixed number; it can range significantly depending on the ingredients, from as low as 70 calories to well over 100. The crucial factors influencing how many calories are in one small latte include the type of milk and whether or not sweeteners are added.

Quick Summary

The calories in a small latte depend heavily on the milk used, with nonfat options being lowest and whole milk and sweet syrups increasing the count. Understanding these variables allows for informed, healthier beverage choices.

Key Points

Milk Matters: The type of milk, not the espresso, is the main driver of calories in a small latte.
Skim is Lowest: Using skim or nonfat milk significantly reduces the calorie count compared to whole or 2% milk.
Syrups Add Up: Flavored syrups are major calorie culprits, with each pump adding a substantial amount of sugar and calories.
Size Varies: A 'small' latte can have different calorie counts depending on the cafe and its specific portion size and ingredients.
Opt for Alternatives: Switching to sugar-free syrups and non-dairy milks like unsweetened almond milk are effective strategies for lowering calories.
Mindful Toppings: Skipping whipped cream is a simple way to instantly reduce the overall calorie total of your drink.
Prioritize Unsweetened: For the lowest-calorie option, stick to an unflavored latte and avoid any added sugars or syrups.

A small latte, a popular espresso-based beverage, consists of a shot of espresso and steamed milk, with a thin layer of foam on top. While the espresso itself contributes only a handful of calories, the milk is the primary source of caloric content. The volume and fat content of the milk are the main variables that cause the calorie count to fluctuate.

The Calorie Impact of Different Milk Types

Choosing your milk is the single most significant decision affecting your latte's nutritional profile. Different milks have varying fat and sugar levels, directly influencing the final calorie count.

Whole Milk: The classic choice for a creamy latte, whole milk contains the most fat and calories. A small latte with whole milk will have the highest calorie count among standard dairy options.
Reduced-Fat Milk (2%): A balanced option with fewer calories than whole milk while still maintaining some richness. This is often the default milk used by cafes unless specified otherwise.
Skim Milk (Nonfat): The lowest-calorie dairy option. Choosing skim milk can cut the calorie content of your small latte significantly without sacrificing its volume. Some FatSecret entries report a small nonfat latte at just 70 calories.
Oat Milk: A creamy, popular plant-based alternative. Calorie counts vary by brand, with some oat milks containing a similar number of calories to 2% or even whole milk due to processing and added sugars.
Almond Milk: Often a low-calorie non-dairy option, especially when unsweetened. Always check the nutrition facts for a specific brand, as sweetened versions will add calories.

Syrups, Sugar, and Toppings: The Hidden Calories

While milk is the base, added ingredients are often the biggest culprits for a high-calorie drink. Flavored syrups, sugar, and toppings can quickly increase the total calories, sometimes more than doubling them.

Syrups: A single pump of flavored syrup can add 20 to 30 calories or more to your drink. A few pumps can easily transform a low-calorie base into a high-calorie dessert.
Sugar: Each teaspoon or packet of sugar adds approximately 16 calories.
Whipped Cream: This indulgent topping adds a significant amount of fat and calories to your latte.

How Cafe Lattes Differ from Home-Brewed Lattes

The calorie count for a 'small latte' can also vary based on the cafe. Serving sizes are not standardized, and the proportion of espresso to milk can differ. A McDonald's small latte is listed at 140 calories, while a generic reduced-fat small latte is listed at 86 calories on FatSecret. These variations are due to a number of factors, including the volume of the 'small' size and the specific milk and proportions used.

Comparing Small Latte Calorie Counts

To illustrate the impact of different choices, here is a comparison table using generalized figures for an 8-ounce (small) latte.


Type of Latte	Milk Used	Approx. Calories	Key Factor
Small Latte, Generic	Standard (full-fat)	101	Average standard cafe milk
Small Latte, Reduced-Fat	2% Milk	86	Lower fat content
Small Latte, Nonfat	Skim Milk	70	Lowest fat dairy option
Small Latte, Oat Milk	Oat Milk (unsweetened)	80-120	Calories vary significantly by brand
Small Vanilla Latte	Standard Milk + Syrup	150+	Vanilla syrup adds significant calories
Small Latte, McDonald's	Standard (not specified)	140	Based on a specific chain's recipe

How to Reduce Calories in Your Latte

Managing your calorie intake doesn't mean giving up your morning latte. Simple adjustments can make a significant difference. Here is a list of strategies to lower the calorie content of your drink.

Choose Skim Milk: This is the easiest way to cut calories while maintaining the latte experience.
Go Dairy-Free (and Unsweetened): Opt for unsweetened almond milk or other low-calorie plant-based milks.
Skip the Syrups: Flavored syrups are concentrated sugar. Opt for a simple, unflavored latte or use a sugar-free alternative.
Hold the Whipped Cream: This simple addition can add dozens of calories. Ask for no whipped cream.
Add Spice Instead of Sugar: Try a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for flavor without the extra calories.
Choose a Smaller Size: While we are focused on small lattes, remember that bigger drinks mean more milk and more calories overall. A smaller size is always a lower-calorie option.

Conclusion: Your Latte, Your Choice

The total calorie count for a small latte is highly customizable. The base espresso is negligible, and the calories come almost entirely from the milk and any sweeteners. By making mindful choices about your ingredients, you can control the nutritional impact of your daily cup. Whether you opt for a classic, full-fat version or make a few simple switches to reduce calories, you can still enjoy a delicious and satisfying coffee experience.

For more insight on coffee nutrition, you can visit a source like Hanstrom's article on coffee calories.

Frequently Asked Questions

A small latte can be low in calories, especially when made with nonfat milk and no added sugar or syrups. The total calorie count varies significantly based on your ingredient choices.

For the lowest calorie count, use skim or nonfat dairy milk. Unsweetened almond milk is also a very low-calorie non-dairy alternative.

A single pump of flavored syrup can add approximately 20 to 30 calories to your latte. If you typically use several pumps, this can quickly add up.

A small latte generally contains more steamed milk than a cappuccino of the same size, meaning it will likely have more calories. A cappuccino has a thicker layer of foam, which is mostly air.

Yes, calorie counts can vary between coffee shops due to differences in serving sizes, milk-to-espresso ratios, and standard milk types. Always check the specific nutritional information provided by the cafe, if available.

A 'skinny' latte typically refers to a drink made with nonfat milk and sugar-free syrup, which significantly reduces the calories compared to a standard latte with whole milk and regular syrup.

Not necessarily. While oat milk is a plant-based alternative, many brands contain sugar and can have a calorie count similar to, or sometimes higher than, whole milk. Always check the label for nutritional information.