Is Cappuccino or Latte More Fattening? The Complete Guide

November 15, 2025 •

4 min read

A standard latte made with whole milk can have approximately 190 calories, while a cappuccino with the same milk might have around 120 calories. Understanding this difference is key for anyone watching their calorie intake and asking if cappuccino or latte is more fattening. While both contain espresso and milk, their proportions are what truly separate them nutritionally.

Quick Summary

The fat and calorie content of cappuccinos and lattes is largely determined by their milk ratio and customizations. Lattes contain more steamed milk, resulting in a higher calorie count, while cappuccinos have a thicker foam layer and less milk, making them generally lower in calories. Milk choice and added syrups are critical factors.

Key Points

Milk Volume is Key: Lattes use more steamed milk, making them higher in calories and fat than cappuccinos, which have a larger proportion of foam.
Milk Choice Impacts Fat: Choosing whole milk significantly increases the calorie count for both drinks; opting for skim, almond, or oat milk reduces the total fat and calories.
Added Syrups Add Calories: Flavored syrups are a major source of hidden sugars and calories. A plain latte or cappuccino is healthier than its sweetened version.
Customization is Crucial: By requesting sugar-free syrups and lower-fat milk, you can drastically reduce the fattening aspect of either drink to fit your dietary needs.
Portion Size Matters: Cappuccinos are traditionally served in smaller cups, contributing to their lower overall calorie count compared to the larger lattes.
Stronger Flavor, Fewer Calories: Due to its lower milk content, a cappuccino provides a stronger espresso taste with fewer calories.

The Fundamental Difference: Ratios Matter

While both cappuccinos and lattes are espresso-based drinks, the core distinction lies in their composition, particularly the milk-to-foam ratio. A traditional cappuccino is typically made with equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and a thick, airy layer of milk foam. A latte, however, features a larger quantity of steamed milk and only a thin layer of foam. This difference in milk volume is the primary driver behind the calorie and fat discrepancies between the two drinks. Because milk is the main source of fat and sugar (lactose) in these beverages, a drink with more milk will inevitably be more fattening.

Milk Type and Its Impact on Calories

The type of milk used dramatically alters the nutritional profile of a cappuccino or latte. Choosing whole milk will result in the highest calorie and fat count, whereas opting for skim or a plant-based alternative can significantly reduce these numbers. For example, a 12-ounce latte made with whole milk could contain around 210 calories, while the same size cappuccino might be closer to 130 calories. When you switch to lower-fat options, the gap narrows but remains, as the latte still uses more milk overall. Unsweetened almond milk, for instance, contains far fewer calories than dairy milk, providing a simple way to create a healthier version of your favorite drink.

The Impact of Added Sugars and Flavors

Beyond the milk itself, a significant portion of the calories in many coffee shop drinks comes from added flavorings and syrups. A basic latte or cappuccino has no added sugar, but a flavored one can be a calorie bomb. For example, a grande Caramel Macchiato from Starbucks, which is essentially a type of flavored latte, can pack around 250 calories. Simple vanilla or caramel syrups can easily add 80-100 calories or more per serving. To keep your drink healthier, it's best to avoid these sweetened options or ask for sugar-free syrups instead. Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or a dash of vanilla extract can add flavor without adding calories.

Customizing for a Healthier Choice

Making small adjustments can allow you to enjoy either a cappuccino or a latte while minimizing its fattening potential. Here are some tips:

Choose skim milk: This is the easiest way to reduce calories and fat in both drinks without changing the fundamental recipe. A skim milk cappuccino will be lighter than a whole milk latte.
Use plant-based milk: Almond, soy, or oat milk can all be used, with unsweetened versions offering the best low-calorie profile. Be aware that some oat milks can be higher in calories than dairy milk, so check the nutritional information.
Skip the syrup: Avoid flavored syrups entirely, or opt for sugar-free versions. This is one of the most impactful changes you can make to lower calorie and sugar content.
Go for a smaller size: A smaller portion naturally means fewer calories. Since cappuccinos are traditionally served in smaller cups, they already have a head start here.
Add your own flavor: A sprinkle of cinnamon or cocoa powder can add warmth and flavor for almost zero calories.

Cappuccino vs. Latte: A Comparison Table

To provide a clear overview, here is a comparison of standard 12 oz versions made with whole milk.


Feature	Cappuccino	Latte
Espresso	1-2 shots	1-2 shots
Steamed Milk	Less milk	More milk
Foam	Thick, airy foam (equal to liquid)	Thin, small layer of foam
Calories	~120-150 calories	~190-210 calories
Fat Content	~6-7g fat	~10g fat
Flavor Profile	Stronger, more intense espresso taste	Milder, creamier espresso taste
Customization Impact	Lower starting calories, so additions have a larger proportional impact	Higher starting calories, so additions compound more

Conclusion: Which is More Fattening?

When comparing standard recipes, a latte is almost always more fattening than a cappuccino. This is due to its higher ratio of steamed milk, which contains the majority of the fat and calories. However, the ultimate 'fattening' potential of either drink is determined by individual choices. Adding a heap of sugar and whole milk to a cappuccino could make it more caloric than a basic, unsweetened latte with skim milk. For those mindful of calorie intake, the best strategy is to opt for either drink made with low-fat or plant-based milk and avoid high-sugar flavorings and syrups.

Making a Smarter Choice

Choosing between these two coffee shop staples is a matter of personal preference and dietary goals. For a lower-calorie option with a stronger coffee flavor, the cappuccino is the clear winner. If you prefer a creamier, milder drink and don't mind the extra calories, a standard latte is a fine choice. The most important thing is to be aware of how your customizations, particularly milk type and syrups, affect the overall nutritional value. By being a mindful consumer, you can enjoy your favorite espresso beverage without sabotaging your health and fitness goals.

For additional nutritional resources, see the Mayo Clinic's healthy recipes section. Mayo Clinic

Frequently Asked Questions

A latte is typically more fattening than a cappuccino because it contains a higher volume of steamed milk, which is the primary source of calories and fat in both drinks.

A standard cappuccino made with whole milk usually contains between 120 and 150 calories, though this can vary depending on the size and preparation.

A standard 12-ounce latte made with whole milk can have approximately 190 to 210 calories, significantly more than a cappuccino of similar size.

Skim milk is a much better choice for a less fattening coffee, as it contains significantly fewer calories and less fat than whole milk.

Yes, you can make a healthier latte by using low-fat milk, unsweetened plant-based milk (like almond or oat), and avoiding sugary syrups.

The key difference is the milk-to-foam ratio. A cappuccino has equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and a thick layer of foam, while a latte has more steamed milk and only a thin layer of foam.

Yes, flavored lattes are more fattening. The added syrups and flavorings can significantly increase the calorie and sugar content, sometimes adding over 100 calories to the drink.