How many calories in a 12 oz almond cappuccino?

November 10, 2025 •

3 min read

A 12 oz almond milk cappuccino typically contains between 75 and 80 calories, depending on the specific brand and whether it includes any added sugars or flavorings. This makes it a significantly lower-calorie alternative to a traditional milk-based cappuccino, appealing to those watching their caloric intake. However, this number can vary substantially based on preparation, from the type of almond milk used to any extra syrups added to the beverage.

Quick Summary

The calorie count for a 12 oz almond cappuccino is low, ranging from 75 to 80 calories on average, influenced by brand variations, type of almond milk, and additions like syrup. This detailed guide explores the key factors impacting the drink's nutritional value and provides a comparison to other coffee options.

Key Points

Average Calorie Count: A 12 oz almond cappuccino contains approximately 75-80 calories, based on commercial data like Starbucks.
Unsweetened is Key: The type of almond milk is the biggest factor; unsweetened versions keep the calorie count low, while sweetened types increase it significantly.
Watch for Add-ins: Syrups and added sugars can inflate the total calories dramatically. A single pump can add 20-30 calories.
Minimal Espresso Contribution: The espresso shots themselves contribute a negligible amount of calories (1-2 per shot).
Brand Variations Exist: Calorie counts differ between brands due to variations in their almond milk formula and preparation methods.

Calorie Breakdown for a 12 oz Almond Cappuccino

To understand the total calories in your 12 oz almond cappuccino, it's important to break down the components. A standard cappuccino consists of espresso, steamed milk, and a layer of foam. When almond milk is substituted for dairy, the overall calorie count typically decreases.

The Espresso Base

A standard cappuccino typically uses a single or double shot of espresso. A single shot contains only about 1-2 calories, so its contribution to the overall total is minimal. This means the majority of the calories will come from the almond milk.

Almond Milk and its Variations

The type of almond milk is the most significant factor affecting the calorie count. Unsweetened almond milk contains far fewer calories than its sweetened or flavored counterparts. For example, a cup (8 fl oz) of unsweetened almond milk has about 30-40 calories, while a sweetened variety can have around 73 calories per cup. Since a cappuccino consists of espresso and milk, and a 12 oz size will likely contain a large portion of milk, this difference is crucial.

Here are the estimated calories from almond milk in a 12 oz cappuccino, assuming roughly 8-10 oz of milk:

Unsweetened Almond Milk: Approximately 30-50 calories.
Sweetened or Barista Blend Almond Milk: Approximately 60-100+ calories.

Impact of Add-ins

Extra ingredients can dramatically increase the calorie total. Syrups, sugar, and artificial sweeteners are common additions that can quickly change a low-calorie drink into a much higher-calorie one. For instance, a single pump of flavored syrup can add 20-30 calories, and many coffee shops add multiple pumps unless you specify otherwise.

Comparison to Other Coffee Drinks


Beverage (12 oz)	Milk Type	Estimated Calories	Notes
Almond Cappuccino	Unsweetened Almond	75-80	Lower calorie, light flavor
Almond Latte	Unsweetened Almond	80-100+	Higher milk-to-foam ratio, more milk volume
Dairy Cappuccino	2% Milk	~90	Standard dairy option
Dairy Latte	2% Milk	~120	More milk, higher calorie
Black Coffee	None	1-5	Virtually no calories

How Brands Influence the Calorie Count

Different coffee chains and barista-style almond milks have varying nutritional profiles. This is due to variations in their base almond milk recipes, some of which add thickeners, sugars, and other ingredients to improve texture and taste. Some brands are formulated specifically for frothing, which can affect the final calorie count. For instance, Starbucks reports an 80-calorie total for a 12 oz (tall) almond milk cappuccino, but other sources cite slightly different values based on their products.

Customizing Your Almond Cappuccino for Calorie Control

If you're watching your calorie intake, there are several ways to enjoy your almond cappuccino without guilt:

Request unsweetened almond milk: Always specify this when ordering to avoid the extra calories from added sugars in sweetened varieties. Many cafés stock both options.
Skip the added syrups: Flavored syrups are a major source of added sugar. If you need a flavor boost, consider a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, which adds minimal to zero calories.
Limit the size: A 12 oz cappuccino is a moderate choice. Choosing a smaller 8 oz size will further reduce the overall calorie count.
Ask about the barista blend: Some coffee shops use special barista-style almond milk, which may contain more added ingredients than standard unsweetened versions. Asking about the brand can help you make a more informed choice.

Conclusion: A Smart Coffee Choice

A 12 oz almond cappuccino is a low-calorie and flavorful beverage option, especially when made with unsweetened almond milk. Its typical calorie count of 75-80 calories is considerably lower than many dairy-based or sweetened coffee alternatives. By being mindful of the type of almond milk and avoiding extra sugars, you can enjoy this creamy, nutty drink while keeping your caloric intake in check. Understanding the factors that influence its nutritional profile—from the espresso shot to any added syrups—empowers you to make smart choices that align with your health and wellness goals. This information is key for anyone trying to enjoy their coffee while managing their daily calorie consumption.

For more specific nutritional information from a commercial supplier, you can check sources like MyFoodDiary or CalorieKing.

Frequently Asked Questions

An almond milk cappuccino is typically lower in calories. For a 12 oz size, an almond version is around 75-80 calories, whereas a cappuccino with 2% dairy milk can be about 90 calories or more, depending on the milk's fat content.

Yes, adding flavored syrup will significantly increase the calorie count. Most syrups contain sugar, with a single pump potentially adding 20-30 calories. To keep the calorie count low, opt for sugar-free syrups or calorie-free flavorings like cinnamon or nutmeg.

To minimize calories, order your cappuccino with unsweetened almond milk and request no added syrups or sweeteners. You can also specify sugar-free syrups if you prefer flavor.

The calorie count for a hot versus iced cappuccino of the same size and ingredients will be essentially the same. The temperature of the beverage does not affect the nutritional value. However, iced versions can sometimes come with more added sugar, so it's always best to confirm ingredients.

Calorie counts vary because different coffee shops use different brands of almond milk, which can have varying levels of added sugar, thickeners, and other ingredients. Some cafés also use proprietary barista blends that differ in nutritional content from standard retail almond milk.

A traditional cappuccino has a higher ratio of foam to milk than a latte. For a 12 oz drink, the volume of milk and foam will be less than in a comparable latte, contributing to its lower calorie count when compared to an almond milk latte.

Many commercial brands of unsweetened almond milk are fortified with vitamins and minerals, including calcium, vitamin E, and vitamin D, making them more nutritionally dense. It's always best to check the product label.