How much caffeine is in a latte and what affects it?

January 9, 2026 •

3 min read

A standard single shot of espresso contains roughly 63-75mg of caffeine. The amount of caffeine in a latte is primarily dictated by how many espresso shots are used, with additional factors influencing the final dosage. This guide breaks down what you can expect from your morning or afternoon pick-me-up.

Quick Summary

The caffeine in a latte varies based on the number of espresso shots, with a single shot containing about 63-75mg. Factors like bean type, roast level, and brand specifics also influence the final content. Decaf versions contain only trace amounts, typically 2-15mg per serving.

Key Points

Espresso Shots Dictate Caffeine: The core caffeine amount in a latte is determined by the number of espresso shots used, with one shot containing approximately 63-75mg.
Size Does Not Always Equal More Caffeine: For hot lattes at many cafes, larger cup sizes often contain the same amount of caffeine as medium ones, as they use the same number of espresso shots, just more milk.
Arabica vs. Robusta Beans: The type of coffee bean matters, with Robusta beans containing nearly double the caffeine of milder Arabica beans.
Decaf is Not Zero Caffeine: Decaf lattes are not caffeine-free. While most is removed, a single shot can still contain up to 15mg of caffeine.
Starbucks Levels Differ: Caffeine content at chains like Starbucks can be higher than average. A Starbucks espresso shot contains about 75mg, affecting the total caffeine in their lattes.
Additional Factors Vary Results: Grind size, water temperature, and brewing time can also cause subtle variations in the amount of caffeine extracted into the espresso.

The Espresso Foundation of Latte Caffeine

At its core, a latte's caffeine content is determined by its espresso base. Unlike drip coffee, which extracts caffeine over a longer period, espresso is a highly concentrated shot of coffee brewed under high pressure. A single standard shot (around 1 ounce) typically contains about 63 to 75 milligrams of caffeine. As most lattes are made with at least one shot, this forms the baseline for the drink's total caffeine level.

For those seeking a more robust kick, a double-shot latte—often the standard at many coffee shops—will contain roughly 125-150 milligrams of caffeine. The inclusion of steamed milk and foam in a latte does not alter the total amount of caffeine from the espresso but does dilute its concentration, which can make the caffeine feel less intense than in a plain espresso or Americano.

Factors That Influence Caffeine Levels

While the number of espresso shots is the primary determinant, several other variables play a crucial role in the final caffeine content of your latte. Knowing these can help you better customize your drink to your desired effect.

Coffee Bean Variety: The type of bean used is a significant factor. Arabica beans, prized for their sweeter flavor, contain less caffeine than the more bitter Robusta beans. While most specialty coffee shops use 100% Arabica beans, some blends may incorporate Robusta to boost the caffeine content.
Roast Level: Contrary to popular belief, a darker roast does not equate to more caffeine. Roasting burns off some of the caffeine, so a lighter roast coffee, when measured by scoop, actually contains slightly more caffeine. However, when measured by weight, a darker roast can have marginally more caffeine due to density changes. The difference is often minimal.
Brewing Technique: Even within the espresso-making process, factors like grind size, water temperature, and extraction time can affect the final caffeine level. A finer grind or hotter water can lead to greater caffeine extraction.

Caffeine Comparison: Latte vs. Other Coffee Drinks

To put a latte's caffeine content into perspective, it helps to compare it to other common coffee beverages. This comparison highlights why lattes are often perceived as a milder option, despite containing a significant amount of caffeine.


Beverage	Serving Size	Average Caffeine (mg)	Key Difference
Latte (Double Shot)	16 oz.	~150 mg	Diluted with a large volume of steamed milk.
Brewed Coffee	8 oz.	95-140 mg	Higher caffeine per ounce before milk is added.
Espresso	1 oz.	63-75 mg	Highly concentrated, no dilution from milk.
Cold Brew	12 oz.	150-200 mg	Long steeping time results in higher caffeine levels.

The Surprising Case of Starbucks

Major coffee chains like Starbucks operate on their own set of standards for caffeine. A single shot of espresso at Starbucks contains approximately 75 milligrams of caffeine, higher than the industry average. This means that a standard Grande latte, which contains two espresso shots, has a caffeine content of 150 milligrams. A Venti hot latte also contains two shots and 150mg of caffeine, while an Iced Venti has a higher 225mg from three shots. It is always prudent to check a specific chain's nutritional information for precise details.

The Decaf Myth: Is it Really Caffeine-Free?

For those sensitive to caffeine, a decaf latte seems like the perfect solution. However, the term "decaf" doesn't mean zero caffeine. The decaffeination process typically removes 97-99.9% of the caffeine. This still leaves a small, trace amount in the final product. A single shot of decaf espresso, for example, can contain anywhere from 3 to 15 milligrams of caffeine. Therefore, while a decaf latte is a much milder option, it is not completely caffeine-free, which is an important consideration for individuals with high sensitivity.

Conclusion: Personalizing Your Latte's Caffeine

Ultimately, the amount of caffeine in a latte is a customizable feature, not a fixed quantity. By understanding the fundamentals of its espresso base and the various factors that influence it—from bean type to brewing—you can easily tailor your coffee to your needs. If you want a milder lift, opt for a single shot or a decaf option. For a more significant energy boost, a double or triple shot is the way to go. Awareness of these details allows you to enjoy your delicious, creamy latte exactly how you want it, with full control over its energetic kick. Further reading on this topic can be found through coffee industry organizations and trusted health information sources, which provide more specific data on caffeine content.

Frequently Asked Questions

A standard latte made with a double shot of espresso contains about 125-150 milligrams of caffeine. This amount is based on a single shot of espresso having an average of 63-75mg of caffeine.

Not necessarily. Many coffee shops use a fixed number of espresso shots (often two) for their lattes, regardless of cup size. The extra volume in a large latte comes from more steamed milk, not more espresso, so the caffeine content can be identical.

In terms of total caffeine, a standard 8-ounce cup of brewed coffee (95-140mg) often contains less than a 16-ounce double-shot latte (around 150mg). Per ounce, however, espresso is far more concentrated.

Yes, a decaf latte is not completely caffeine-free. The decaffeination process removes most caffeine, but a small amount remains, typically between 2 and 15mg per serving, depending on the brewing method and beans.

Starbucks' espresso shots contain a higher average amount of caffeine (about 75mg per shot) compared to many other coffee shops. This higher dose per shot results in a higher overall caffeine content for their lattes.

Robusta beans have more caffeine than Arabica beans. Lighter roasts retain marginally more caffeine than darker roasts when measured by scoops, but this effect is often insignificant.

Yes. You can customize your caffeine intake by requesting a specific number of espresso shots (single, double, etc.) or by choosing a decaf or half-caf option. You can also make it at home to have full control.