How many calories does a matcha latte with almond milk have?

January 6, 2026 •

3 min read

An 8-ounce, homemade matcha latte made with unsweetened almond milk can have as few as 40-60 calories. The final calorie count of your personalized matcha latte with almond milk can vary significantly based on ingredients like added sweeteners, brand of almond milk, and serving size.

Quick Summary

The calories in a matcha latte with almond milk depend primarily on whether the almond milk is sweetened or unsweetened and if additional syrups are added. Unsweetened versions are significantly lower in calories, while cafe-bought drinks with added sugar can increase the count dramatically. This article breaks down the nutritional differences and offers tips for a healthier preparation.

Key Points

Calorie Range: A homemade, unsweetened matcha latte with almond milk typically ranges from 40-60 calories per 8-ounce serving.
Added Sugar is Key: Sweetened almond milk, syrups, and other sweeteners are the primary culprits for increased calories in matcha lattes.
Café vs. Homemade: Cafe-prepared matcha lattes often contain pre-sweetened matcha powder and syrups, leading to a much higher calorie count (up to 300+ calories or more) compared to homemade versions.
Check Labels: Always read the nutrition label on almond milk, as calorie counts differ between unsweetened and sweetened varieties.
Control Your Sweetness: For the lowest calories, use unsweetened almond milk and flavor with calorie-free sweeteners like stevia, or add spices such as cinnamon.
Low-Calorie Matcha Base: Matcha powder itself is very low in calories, contributing only about 3-10 calories per teaspoon.

Understanding the Calorie Breakdown

At its core, a matcha latte with almond milk starts with two main components: matcha powder and almond milk. Matcha powder, which is finely ground green tea leaves, is inherently very low in calories, typically adding only about 3-10 calories per serving (1-2 teaspoons). The majority of the beverage's caloric content comes from the almond milk and any added sweeteners.

The Role of Almond Milk

Not all almond milk is created equal when it comes to calories. Unsweetened almond milk is a very low-calorie base, with one cup generally containing between 30 and 60 calories. This makes it a popular choice for those watching their caloric intake. On the other hand, sweetened or flavored almond milk varieties include added sugars, which can increase the calorie count significantly. For example, some brands of sweetened almond milk can have double the calories of their unsweetened counterparts. The brand also matters, as the almond-to-water ratio can change the calorie count. For the most accurate number, always check the nutritional label of your chosen almond milk.

Impact of Sweeteners and Syrups

What transforms a simple matcha latte into a high-calorie treat are often the add-ins. While pure matcha has a distinct earthy flavor that some enjoy on its own, many people add sweeteners to create a more palatable beverage. A single teaspoon of sugar adds about 16 calories, and honey adds around 21. If you visit a coffee shop, flavored syrups are a common addition, and a single pump can contribute 20 to 40 calories or more, pushing the total well over 200. For example, a Starbucks grande matcha green tea latte with almond milk can be around 170 calories, largely due to added sugars in their matcha powder and syrup. At home, using a zero-calorie sweetener like stevia or monk fruit extract is an easy way to control sugar and calorie intake.

Comparison of Matcha Latte Variations

To illustrate how different ingredients affect the final calorie count, here is a comparison of various 8-ounce matcha latte preparations:


Latte Type	Almond Milk (Unsweetened)	Almond Milk (Sweetened)	2% Dairy Milk	Oat Milk	Café-Style (Syrups)
Calories (approx.)	40–60	70–100+	120–150	90–120	170–300+
Carbohydrates (g)	~1–3	~10–15	~12–15	~16–20	Varies greatly
Protein (g)	~1–2	~1–2	~8–9	~3–4	Varies greatly
Added Sugars	No	Yes	No (natural)	Varies	Yes

Customizing Your Matcha Latte for Healthier Choices

Making your own matcha latte at home gives you full control over the ingredients, which is the best way to manage its nutritional profile. Here are some tips for a low-calorie, healthy drink:

Use Unsweetened Almond Milk: Opt for the unsweetened version to keep the base calories low. You can check the ingredients to ensure no additional sweeteners are present.
Add Your Own Sweetener: If you prefer a sweeter taste, use a natural, calorie-free option like stevia or monk fruit. This allows you to control the exact amount of sweetness without piling on calories.
Choose the Right Matcha Powder: Not all matcha powders are created equal. Some commercial powders, particularly those designed for lattes, may already contain sugar. Always check the ingredients list to ensure you're using pure, unsweetened matcha. High-quality, ceremonial grade matcha often has a naturally sweeter flavor profile, requiring less sweetener.
Experiment with Spices: Add flavor without calories by incorporating spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or a dash of vanilla extract. This can enhance the natural taste of the matcha and add warmth to your drink.
Serve Iced with No Extra Sweeteners: For a refreshing and virtually zero-calorie option, prepare a matcha cold brew with just water and ice, giving you all the antioxidant benefits without any dairy or sweeteners.

Conclusion

While a basic matcha latte with unsweetened almond milk can be a very low-calorie beverage, the number can vary widely depending on the brand of milk, type of sweetener, and serving size. A homemade 8-ounce version with unsweetened almond milk typically contains 40-60 calories, making it an excellent choice for a healthier alternative to traditional coffee shop drinks. By being mindful of your ingredient choices and customizing your preparation, you can enjoy this antioxidant-rich drink while keeping a close eye on your caloric intake.

For more information on matcha's broader health benefits, including its rich antioxidant content and potential for boosting brain function, visit Healthline's detailed article: Matcha — Even More Powerful Than Regular Green Tea?.

Frequently Asked Questions

There is no significant calorie difference between an iced and a hot matcha latte, assuming the ingredients and measurements are identical. The temperature of the drink does not affect its caloric content.

Yes, a Starbucks matcha latte with almond milk is typically higher in calories than a homemade version because Starbucks uses a sweetened matcha powder and often adds extra pumps of liquid cane sugar, increasing the overall calorie and sugar content.

Matcha powder on its own is extremely low in calories, with a typical 1-2 teaspoon serving containing only about 3 to 10 calories. The majority of calories in a matcha latte come from the milk and sweeteners.

Yes, using unsweetened almond milk is the most effective way to keep your matcha latte's calorie count low. A cup of unsweetened almond milk contains significantly fewer calories than sweetened versions or cow's milk.

For those looking to reduce calories, zero-calorie, natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit extract are excellent choices for sweetening a matcha latte without adding extra sugar.

Oat milk generally has a higher carbohydrate and sugar content than unsweetened almond milk, which results in a higher calorie count per serving. Oat milk often has a creamier consistency that some prefer for lattes.

Both can be healthy, but a homemade matcha latte with unsweetened almond milk can be lower in calories than a traditional coffee latte made with full-fat milk and sugar. Matcha also contains unique antioxidants and L-theanine, which provides a more sustained energy boost.