What kind of milk does Starbucks use for lattes?

Since 2007, Starbucks has used 2% reduced-fat milk as the standard dairy option for all its espresso beverages, including lattes. This means that unless you specify otherwise, a regular latte will be prepared with this milk. However, Starbucks also offers a wide variety of milk choices to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

Quick Summary

A standard Starbucks latte is made with 2% reduced-fat milk, but customers can easily customize their order with a variety of other dairy and non-dairy options, including whole, skim, soy, almond, and oat milk.

Key Points

• Standard Milk: Starbucks uses 2% reduced-fat milk as the default for its lattes.

• Richness: Whole milk is the creamiest and is used for specific drinks like the Starbucks Reserve® Latte.

• Low-Fat: "Skinny" lattes are made with nonfat milk, which produces a foamier texture.

• Best Non-Dairy: Oat milk is often the top choice for baristas due to its creamy texture and frothing ability.

• Dairy-Free Cost: As of late 2024, there is no extra charge for non-dairy milk customizations in many regions.

• Full Range of Options: Additional choices include soy milk, almond milk, and coconut milk, each with its own flavor and texture profile.

The Standard: 2% Reduced-Fat Milk

For nearly two decades, Starbucks has defaulted to 2% reduced-fat milk for all its espresso-based drinks, a change made in 2007 from the previous standard of whole milk. This decision was largely influenced by consumer requests for lower-fat options. This "Goldilocks" milk sits perfectly between the richness of whole milk and the lightness of nonfat, providing a balanced creamy flavor without overpowering the signature espresso. It also steams exceptionally well, creating a smooth, velvety microfoam that is essential for a classic latte. While some coffee aficionados might argue for the superior mouthfeel of whole milk, the 2% option has proven a crowd-pleaser, providing a satisfying and consistent taste across the Starbucks menu.

Dairy Milk Options Beyond the Standard

Starbucks provides additional dairy choices for those who prefer a different fat content or flavor profile. Each has a unique impact on the final taste and texture of your latte.

• Whole Milk: The richest and creamiest of the dairy options due to its higher fat content of roughly 3.5%. It produces the most decadent, silky-smooth lattes, though it can be slightly more challenging to froth into a perfect microfoam. It is the standard milk used in the Starbucks Reserve® Latte.
• Nonfat Milk (Skim): The leanest dairy choice, with the fat completely skimmed off. The resulting milk is lighter and thinner, and it produces a much foamier, airier texture when steamed. Ordering a "skinny" latte automatically uses nonfat milk.
• Breve (Half & Half) and Heavy Cream: These higher-fat options are typically used as creamers but can be substituted in lattes for an ultra-rich and indulgent experience.

A Deep Dive into Non-Dairy Alternatives

For those with dietary restrictions or specific taste preferences, Starbucks has expanded its non-dairy menu significantly. The best part is that, as of late 2024, customizing with non-dairy milk is often at no extra charge in many regions.

• Oat Milk: Widely praised by baristas for its superb frothing ability and creamy texture, oat milk is often considered the best non-dairy milk for lattes. It has a naturally subtle sweetness that complements espresso beautifully without overpowering it. Look for the "barista edition" varieties for the best results, as they are specifically formulated to steam and foam well.
• Soy Milk: The first plant-based milk to appear on the menu, soy milk offers a rich, creamy texture and a nutty flavor. Its high protein content makes it an effective frothing agent. However, it can occasionally curdle when added to hot espresso if not warmed carefully.
• Almond Milk: A popular, low-calorie choice with a light, slightly nutty flavor. While many enjoy its taste, it tends to create a thinner, less creamy texture compared to oat or soy milk. It does not froth as well as the other non-dairy options.
• Coconut Milk: This alternative offers a distinct tropical flavor that can be a welcome addition to certain lattes. It is a thicker and creamier option than almond milk but generally does not froth as effectively as oat or soy.

Comparing Starbucks Milk Options

Milk Type	Creaminess	Flavor Profile	Best For	Diet Suitability	Availability	Frothing Quality
2% Milk	Medium	Balanced, Mild	Standard Lattes	Dairy	Widespread	Good
Whole Milk	High	Rich, Creamy	Richer, Dessert-Style Lattes	Dairy	Widespread	Good
Nonfat Milk	Low	Light, Watery	"Skinny" Lattes	Dairy, Low-Fat	Widespread	Excellent (Foam)
Oat Milk	High	Neutral, Subtle Sweetness	The Best All-Rounder	Dairy-Free, Vegan	Widespread	Excellent
Soy Milk	Medium-High	Nutty, Earthy	Creamy, Vegan Lattes	Dairy-Free, Vegan	Widespread	Good
Almond Milk	Low	Nutty	Low-Calorie Option	Dairy-Free, Vegan	Widespread	Poor (Less Foam)
Coconut Milk	Medium	Tropical	Specialty Flavored Drinks	Dairy-Free, Vegan	Widespread	Poor (Less Foam)

Customizing Your Latte: A Simple Process

Ordering your latte with a specific milk is a simple matter of requesting it. When placing your order, simply add your preferred milk choice. For example, instead of ordering a "latte," you would ask for a "latte with oat milk" or a "skinny vanilla latte." This allows you to tailor your drink to your exact taste and dietary needs. Since Starbucks has eliminated extra charges for non-dairy milk substitutions in many regions, experimenting with different options has never been more accessible.

Conclusion: Your Latte, Your Way

While Starbucks has established 2% reduced-fat milk as the foundation for its standard lattes, the vast landscape of milk options ensures that every customer can find their perfect fit. Whether you crave the rich decadence of whole milk, the light airiness of nonfat, or the plant-based perfection of oat milk, the choice is yours. The transition to 2% milk in 2007 was a milestone, and the subsequent expansion of non-dairy alternatives reflects a commitment to catering to diverse preferences. This means that the answer to "what kind of milk does Starbucks use for lattes?" is not just one simple answer but rather an invitation to customize and explore the delicious possibilities on offer.

Read more about the history of Starbucks' 2% milk transition

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the standard milk in a Starbucks latte?

The standard milk used in a Starbucks latte is 2% reduced-fat milk. This has been the company's default for espresso beverages since 2007.

Can I get a latte with a different kind of milk at Starbucks?

Yes, you can customize your latte with a variety of milk options. Starbucks offers whole milk, nonfat milk, oat milk, soy milk, almond milk, and coconut milk as alternatives.

Is there an extra charge for non-dairy milk at Starbucks?

As of late 2024, Starbucks eliminated the extra charge for non-dairy milk substitutions like oat, soy, almond, and coconut milk in many regions.

Which milk alternative is best for frothing in a latte?

For non-dairy options, oat milk is often considered the best for frothing, producing a creamy and smooth microfoam ideal for lattes. Soy milk is also a strong choice.

What does a "skinny" latte at Starbucks mean?

A "skinny" latte at Starbucks is made with nonfat milk and sugar-free syrup instead of the standard 2% milk and regular syrup.

Does Starbucks offer lactose-free milk?

While Starbucks does not offer a specific lactose-free dairy milk, all of its non-dairy options—oat, soy, almond, and coconut milk—are lactose-free and suitable for those with lactose intolerance.

How does the flavor of almond milk compare to other options?

Almond milk has a light, nutty flavor that is less creamy than oat or soy milk and can have a slightly watery consistency. Many people prefer it for its lower calorie count and taste.