Nutrition Diet: Unpacking How many calories in a 16 oz cappuccino with almond milk?

November 10, 2025 •

3 min read

A 16 oz cappuccino made with unsweetened almond milk can vary from approximately 50 to 100 calories, a range influenced heavily by the brand and any added sweeteners. While often considered a low-calorie alternative, understanding the nutritional breakdown is essential for tracking your daily intake and answering the question of how many calories in a 16 oz cappuccino with almond milk?

Quick Summary

A typical 16 oz cappuccino made with unsweetened almond milk can have a calorie count between 50 and 100 calories. The total nutritional value is dependent on the brand, whether the almond milk is sweetened, and the addition of syrups or flavorings, making it important to check labels and preparation methods.

Key Points

Calorie Range: A 16 oz unsweetened almond milk cappuccino typically contains 50 to 100 calories, varying by brand and preparation.
Sweetened vs. Unsweetened: The calorie count drastically increases with sweetened or flavored almond milk compared to unsweetened varieties.
Hidden Calories: Flavored syrups, sugar, and whipped cream add significant calories and sugar, so requesting an unsweetened drink is best.
Nutritional Differences: Almond milk is lower in calories, fat, and protein than dairy milk, but is often fortified with calcium and vitamins D and E.
Healthier Order: For a low-calorie option, order with unsweetened almond milk and use spices like cinnamon for flavor instead of syrups.
Brand Matters: Calorie information can differ between coffee shops due to different almond milk brands and recipe variations.

The Calorie Breakdown of an Almond Milk Cappuccino

When we ask how many calories in a 16 oz cappuccino with almond milk?, the answer isn't a single number but a range. The caloric content primarily comes from the milk, as a standard shot of espresso contains negligible calories. For a 16 oz (grande) size, the total calorie count depends on the type of almond milk used and any additions. For instance, a Starbucks Grande cappuccino with almond milk is around 100 calories, while a Second Cup version is listed at about 50 calories. This disparity is a key factor to consider for anyone monitoring their intake.

The Critical Role of Almond Milk Type

Not all almond milk is created equal, and the type used is the most significant factor affecting your cappuccino's calorie count. Unsweetened almond milk, which is low in sugar and fat, forms the basis for the healthiest options. Commercial unsweetened almond milk contains around 40 calories per cup (8 oz). However, once you introduce sweetened or flavored almond milk, the numbers rise dramatically. Sweetened varieties can add a substantial amount of sugar and calories, sometimes doubling the total. It's always best to ask for unsweetened almond milk when ordering from a coffee shop to keep calories in check.

Brand Variations and Additives

Different coffee shops use different brands of almond milk and have distinct preparation methods. This is why a 16 oz almond milk cappuccino from Starbucks might have 100 calories, while another brand's could be 50 calories. Store-bought varieties also differ in their almond-to-water ratio and the stabilizers and sweeteners they use. Additives are another major consideration. Syrups, sauces, and whipped cream are hidden sources of calories and sugar that can quickly transform a low-calorie drink into a high-sugar treat. A single pump of flavored syrup can contain around 5 grams of sugar. To minimize calories, it's crucial to be mindful of these extras and request an unsweetened drink with no added syrups.

Almond Milk vs. Dairy Milk: A Nutritional Comparison

For those choosing almond milk as a dairy alternative, it's helpful to compare the nutritional differences. Almond milk is a popular choice for people with lactose intolerance or those following a vegan diet. However, it is significantly lower in protein than cow's milk.


Nutrient (per 1 cup)	Unsweetened Almond Milk (approx.)	Whole Dairy Milk (approx.)
Calories	40	150
Protein	1g	8g
Carbohydrates	1g	12g
Fat	2.5g	8g
Vitamin E	100% DV+ (fortified)	0% DV
Calcium	~45% DV (fortified)	~28% DV

How to Order and Prepare a Healthier Cappuccino

For those aiming for a healthy and low-calorie beverage, there are several ways to enjoy a cappuccino without sacrificing flavor.

Choose unsweetened milk: The simplest and most effective step is to specify unsweetened almond milk. This significantly reduces the sugar and calorie content.
Skip the syrups: Flavored syrups are a primary source of added sugar. Instead, consider using natural spices to enhance the flavor.
Add natural flavor: Sprinkle cinnamon, nutmeg, or a dash of vanilla or almond extract for a delicious flavor boost without the empty calories.
Control the portions: Sticking to a smaller size is another effective strategy for managing your total calorie intake.
Order a 'dry' cappuccino: A 'dry' cappuccino has more foam and less milk, further reducing calories, though this changes the classic cappuccino texture.

Nutritional Benefits of Almond Milk

Beyond its low-calorie profile, fortified unsweetened almond milk offers several health benefits:

Rich in Vitamin E: It is a fantastic source of antioxidant Vitamin E, which is beneficial for skin and immune health.
Lactose-free: It is an excellent alternative for individuals who are lactose intolerant or have a dairy allergy.
Bone health support: Fortified almond milk is often enriched with calcium and vitamin D, both essential for building and maintaining strong bones.
Heart health: Being lower in saturated fat than cow's milk, almond milk can be a heart-healthy choice.

Final Thoughts: Making an Informed Choice

Knowing how many calories are in a 16 oz cappuccino with almond milk depends heavily on your choices. Opting for unsweetened almond milk and avoiding sugary syrups are the two most critical steps in keeping the calorie count low. While almond milk is a great low-calorie, dairy-free alternative, be mindful of its low protein content and opt for fortified versions for essential vitamins and minerals. By being an informed consumer, you can enjoy your favorite coffee treat while staying on track with your dietary goals. For more in-depth nutritional information on almond milk, you can check out resources from WebMD.

Frequently Asked Questions

The calorie count varies because different brands use unique recipes and ingredients. Factors like the specific almond milk used (unsweetened vs. sweetened), the almond-to-water ratio, and other additives can all influence the final nutritional value.

Generally, yes, as unsweetened almond milk is significantly lower in calories than whole dairy milk. However, the addition of sugary syrups or other high-calorie toppings can easily increase the calorie count to or beyond that of a standard dairy milk cappuccino.

Yes, adding flavored syrup significantly increases the calorie and sugar content. One pump of flavored syrup can contain about 5 grams of sugar, and a large drink can have several pumps, adding up quickly.

The healthiest way is to order it with unsweetened almond milk and no added syrups or sweeteners. For flavor, you can request a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg.

No, almond milk is not a good source of protein. A cup of almond milk contains only about 1 gram of protein, whereas cow's milk has about 8 grams. If you're looking for a protein boost, you should rely on other sources in your diet.

Fortified almond milk is often enriched with calcium and vitamin D to be comparable to dairy milk for bone health. However, the body's absorption of calcium from fortified almond milk can be different, so it's always good to have other calcium-rich foods in your diet.

Yes, almond milk is naturally lactose-free, making it an excellent alternative for people who are lactose intolerant or have a dairy allergy.