How Many Calories in Iced Coffee with a Splash of Milk?

December 5, 2025 •

3 min read

An 8-ounce cup of plain black iced coffee contains only 2 to 5 calories. This means that when asking how many calories in iced coffee with a splash of milk, the vast majority of the calories come from the type and amount of milk added, not the coffee itself.

Quick Summary

The total calorie count for an iced coffee with a splash of milk is primarily determined by the milk type and quantity. A standard splash of dairy milk can add between 10 to 20 calories, while using non-dairy or fat-free options further minimizes the total.

Key Points

Low Calorie Base: Black iced coffee contains only 2–5 calories, making it a very low-calorie base.
Milk Type Matters: The type of milk, not the coffee, determines the majority of the beverage's calorie content.
Splash vs. Pour: A typical "splash" is about 2 tablespoons, adding 10–20 calories depending on the milk's fat content.
Minimal Calories for Non-Dairy: Unsweetened almond or cashew milk can add as little as 2–5 calories per splash, keeping your drink extra light.
Avoid Sugary Add-ins: The quickest way to increase calories is by adding sugar or sweetened syrups. Use zero-calorie sweeteners for a diet-friendly alternative.
Potential Antioxidant Interaction: Some research suggests milk may inhibit the absorption of certain coffee antioxidants, though other studies show a neutral or beneficial effect.

The Calorie Contribution from a Splash of Milk

A "splash" of milk is not a precise measurement, but it's typically understood to be about 2 tablespoons (or roughly 30ml). The type of milk you choose for this small amount can significantly impact the final calorie total.

Here is a breakdown of the approximate calories for a 2-tablespoon splash of different milk types:

Whole Milk: Approximately 18 calories. With a higher fat content, it's the most caloric dairy option. It also contributes to a richer, creamier taste. A splash of whole milk will bring a standard iced coffee up to about 20–23 calories total.
2% (Reduced-Fat) Milk: Roughly 14 calories. A good middle ground, offering some creaminess for fewer calories than whole milk. This would bring the total to around 16–19 calories.
Skim (Fat-Free) Milk: About 11 calories. The lowest-calorie dairy option, it's a popular choice for those watching their weight. A skim-milk iced coffee would be about 13–16 calories.
Unsweetened Almond Milk: As little as 2–5 calories. Many brands have very few calories per serving. The taste is nutty and can be less creamy than dairy milk.
Unsweetened Oat Milk: Approximately 10–15 calories. Oat milk offers a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a creamier texture than almond milk, making it a good non-dairy option.
Unsweetened Cashew Milk: Often very low in calories, similar to almond milk, at around 5–10 calories for a small splash.

Customizing Your Iced Coffee for a Lower Calorie Count

To keep your iced coffee delicious while minimizing calories, consider these strategies:

Choose the right milk: The choice of milk is the most significant factor. Opt for unsweetened plant-based milks like almond or cashew for the lowest calorie count, or use skim milk if you prefer dairy.
Avoid added sugars: Sugars and sweetened syrups are major calorie culprits. A single teaspoon of sugar adds about 16 calories. For sweetness, use a zero-calorie sweetener like stevia or monk fruit.
Use low-sugar alternatives: Experiment with sugar-free flavorings. For example, sugar-free caramel or mocha syrups can provide flavor without the extra calories.
Brew strong coffee: A bold coffee brew allows you to use less milk while still enjoying a rich flavor, further reducing the calorie impact of any dairy or non-dairy additive. Using coffee ice cubes can also prevent a watered-down taste.
Add natural spices: For flavor without calories, sprinkle in spices like cinnamon or nutmeg.

Comparison of Milk Options for Iced Coffee


Milk Type	Calories per 2 tbsp (approx.)	Notes
Whole Milk	~18	Creamiest texture, highest fat content, higher calorie count among dairy options.
2% Milk	~14	Balanced flavor and texture, moderate calorie count.
Skim Milk	~11	Lowest calorie dairy option, less creamy texture.
Unsweetened Almond Milk	~2-5	Very low calorie, nutty flavor, less creamy.
Unsweetened Oat Milk	~10-15	Mild, slightly sweet flavor, creamy texture.
Unsweetened Cashew Milk	~5-10	Very low calorie, subtle nutty flavor.

Health Considerations Beyond Calories

While calories are a primary concern for many, it's also worth noting the other nutritional aspects of adding milk to coffee. Some studies suggest that milk may reduce the bioavailability of some of coffee's beneficial antioxidants due to interactions between milk proteins and coffee polyphenols. However, other studies show these effects are minimal or even positive in some cases, particularly related to the enhancement of certain components or reduced acidity. Additionally, milk adds nutrients like calcium and vitamin B12, though a "splash" contributes a small amount.

Conclusion

Ultimately, an iced coffee with a splash of milk is a very low-calorie beverage, with the total typically ranging from less than 10 to about 25 calories, depending on the type of milk. Black coffee itself is nearly calorie-free, so the caloric burden rests almost entirely on your choice of milk and any additional sweeteners. For the absolute lowest calorie count, opt for an unsweetened plant-based milk like almond or cashew. However, even a splash of dairy milk won't derail a diet. By understanding these simple facts, you can enjoy your refreshing iced coffee while staying on track with your health goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, adding a small splash of milk does not make iced coffee high in calories. A standard black iced coffee is nearly calorie-free, and a typical splash of milk only adds between 10 to 20 calories, depending on the milk type.

Unsweetened almond milk is one of the lowest-calorie options, often adding just a few calories per splash. Unsweetened cashew milk is also a very low-calorie choice.

To reduce calories further, use unsweetened plant-based milks and avoid all added sugars and sweetened syrups. Use zero-calorie sweeteners like stevia or opt for natural spices like cinnamon for flavor.

Yes, there is a difference. A 2-tablespoon splash of whole milk adds about 18 calories, while the same amount of skim milk adds only about 11 calories. This is due to the difference in fat content.

Yes, even a small amount of milk makes the biggest difference in calories. While the coffee itself has very few calories, adding a larger amount of milk, especially whole milk or sweetened dairy, will increase the calorie count significantly more than a "splash".

Yes, using sugar-free or naturally sweetened syrups is an excellent way to add flavor to your iced coffee without adding extra calories from sugar.

The effect is debated. Some studies suggest milk proteins can interfere with the absorption of certain coffee antioxidants, while other research finds neutral or even positive effects. For example, adding milk can help reduce the acidity of coffee, which may be beneficial for those with sensitive stomachs.