The Calorie Breakdown by Cold Brew Type
The calorie content of a Tim Hortons cold brew isn't a single number; it's a spectrum that depends on how the drink is prepared and what size you order. The key difference lies between a simple black cold brew and the pre-sweetened and creamed 'Original' version.
Original Cold Brew Calories
For those who enjoy a ready-to-drink, pre-sweetened cold brew, Tim Hortons offers the Original blend. The calories in this version are notably higher than plain cold brew due to the added ingredients. Based on the April 2025 nutrition information, the breakdown is as follows:
- Small Original Cold Brew: 120 calories
- Medium Original Cold Brew: 150 calories
- Large Original Cold Brew: 240 calories
These beverages include a blend of cream and sugar, contributing to their smooth, sweet flavor and higher calorie count. The large size, with 240 calories, represents a more substantial energy investment, on par with a small meal for some individuals.
Vanilla Cream Cold Brew Calories
The Vanilla Cream Cold Brew is another popular Tim Hortons offering, featuring a flavored vanilla sweet cream. Its calorie count can be affected by regional variations and the specific formulation. According to data from early 2025, the calories are as follows:
- Small Vanilla Cream Cold Brew: 120 calories
- Medium Vanilla Cream Cold Brew: 160 calories
- Large Vanilla Cream Cold Brew: 240 calories
It is worth noting that some older or regional data may show different numbers, but these figures, supported by recent nutrition sources, reflect the current Canadian menu as of 2025. The addition of vanilla-flavored cream adds significant fat and sugar calories compared to the base cold brew.
Black Cold Brew Calories
For the purists, a plain black cold brew is the most diet-friendly option. Cold brew coffee itself is brewed with just coffee grounds and water over a long period. As a result, it contains a negligible number of calories. Multiple sources confirm that a plain, unadulterated cold brew has virtually zero calories—typically around 0 to 5 calories per cup. This makes it an excellent choice for those focused on calorie control, as long as no milk, sugar, or flavored syrups are added.
Factors That Impact Cold Brew Calories
Your cold brew's final calorie tally is influenced by several factors beyond just the base coffee itself. Understanding these can help you customize your order to fit your dietary needs.
- Milk and Creamers: The most significant calorie additions come from milk and cream. A splash of regular cream can add a surprising number of calories, while whole milk adds more than skim milk. Choosing low-fat or non-dairy alternatives like almond or oat milk can reduce this impact.
- Flavored Syrups: Whether it's vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut, flavored syrups are a major source of sugar and calories. Many coffee shops, including Tim Hortons, offer sugar-free syrup alternatives that provide flavor without the caloric load.
- Sweeteners: In addition to syrups, packet sweeteners like sugar or honey can increase calories. If you need sweetness, consider a sugar substitute to keep the count down.
- Serving Size: It's an obvious but important factor. A large cold brew simply contains more of everything—more coffee, more cream, and more syrup—leading to a higher calorie count than a small or medium.
Tim Hortons Cold Brew Calorie Comparison Table
| Cold Brew Variety | Size | Approximate Calories | Approximate Sugars (g) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plain Black Cold Brew | Medium | 0-5 kcal | 0g |
| Original Cold Brew | Small | 120 kcal | 15g |
| Original Cold Brew | Medium | 150 kcal | 22g |
| Original Cold Brew | Large | 240 kcal | 29g |
| Vanilla Cream Cold Brew | Small | 120 kcal | ~20g |
| Vanilla Cream Cold Brew | Medium | 160 kcal | ~26g |
| Vanilla Cream Cold Brew | Large | 240 kcal | ~30g |
| Roasted Hazelnut Cold Brew | Small | 180 kcal | ~26g |
| Custom: Black + Sugar-Free Syrup | Medium | ~5-15 kcal | 0g |
Note: Calorie and sugar counts are based on recent nutritional information and can vary slightly by location and preparation.
How to Reduce Calories in Your Tim Hortons Cold Brew
If you love the refreshing taste of cold brew but want to keep your calorie intake in check, these simple customization tips can help:
- Order it Black: The easiest way to cut calories is to order your cold brew black, with no milk, cream, or sugar. Its naturally smooth, less-acidic flavor is enjoyable on its own.
- Use Sugar-Free Syrups: Ask for a sugar-free syrup, such as sugar-free vanilla, instead of the regular kind. These syrups are sweetened with a zero-calorie substitute, giving you the flavor without the sugar.
- Opt for Low-Fat or Non-Dairy Milk: Replace the regular cream with a splash of skim milk, almond milk, or oat milk. This significantly reduces the fat and sugar content.
- Control Your Add-Ins: If you must have cream or sugar, ask for it on the side. This allows you to control the exact amount you add, giving you a less calorific drink than the pre-mixed Original Cold Brew.
- Limit Toppings: Avoid calorie-dense toppings like whipped cream or drizzles, which add significant sugar and fat.
Conclusion
The number of calories in a Tim Hortons cold brew coffee is not a one-size-fits-all figure but depends entirely on the preparation. A simple, black cold brew is a low-calorie choice, while the popular Original and flavored versions contain added sugar and cream, pushing their calorie counts much higher. By understanding the nutritional impact of different ingredients and customizing your order, you can enjoy a delicious and refreshing cold brew that aligns with your dietary preferences. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always consult the official Tim Hortons nutrition guide on their website, which reflects local menu offerings.
