Coffee calories: a complete guide to values ​​and variations

When we talk about coffee calories, we often think of a light drink, almost with no impact on our daily diet. But is it really that simple? Let’s take a closer look with CaffèLAB at how many calories coffee has in its different versions, from the classic espresso to the macchiato, to clearly answer the most common questions from coffee lovers.

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How many calories does coffee have without sugar?

The most common question among those following a controlled diet is: how many calories does coffee have? Black coffee—that is, espresso served without sugar or milk—contains very few calories: on average, a small espresso cup provides about 2 calories. This value is almost negligible compared to daily energy needs, making coffee ideal even for those on a diet or who follow a lifestyle focused on staying lean.

If you choose a filter coffee or a moka, the value remains practically the same: in fact, if we want a scientific assessment, it has been calculated that 100 ml of espresso coffee provide about 9 calories. The reason is simple: coffee is mainly made up of water, while the coffee grounds, once filtered, release very few calorie-bearing substances.

Calories in macchiato coffee: what changes compared to espresso

The discussion changes when we talk about macchiato, meaning espresso with a small addition of hot or frothed milk. The calories in macchiato coffee depend on the quantity and the type of milk used:

• A macchiato with one teaspoon (20g) of whole milk adds about 10–15 extra calories per cup (total: 12–17 calories).
• If you use skim milk, the extra calories drop to 5–8 per cup (total: 9 calories depending on the quantity).
• With plant-based milk (soy, oat, almond), the value varies between 5 and 15 calories, depending on the product chosen.

It’s important to point out that the main difference compared to plain espresso is due to the lactose content, fats, and natural sugars present in milk. However, even a macchiato remains a light drink and perfectly compatible with a balanced diet.

Sugar and sweeteners: the increase in coffee calories

The real calorie “trap” often isn’t the coffee itself, but adding sugar or other sweeteners. One teaspoon of sugar (about 5 grams) provides 20 calories: adding just one is enough to multiply the total calories of an espresso. If you prefer coffee bitter, instead, calories remain minimal.

Alternative sweeteners (honey, agave syrup, brown sugar) also provide extra energy, although with slightly different values. Those trying to reduce calories can choose low-calorie sweeteners or enjoy coffee without sugar, to better appreciate the aromatic notes.

How many calories does coffee have in other variations

Beyond espresso and macchiato, there are many coffee variations that, depending on added ingredients, can have a very different calorie content:

• Cappuccino: a standard cup provides between 70 and 100 calories (whole milk).
• Caffè latte: about 120–150 calories, based on the proportions of milk and coffee.
• Americano: 2–4 calories without sugar, like espresso.
• Shaken coffee or coffee “corretto”: calories increase if you add liqueurs, cream, or sugar, easily reaching 100–200 calories per serving.

These drinks are ideal for breakfast or a richer break, but nutritionally they should be considered more like a snack.

Coffee and diet: practical tips for mindful consumption

Coffee can easily fit into any eating plan, as long as you pay at

These simple precautions make it possible to enjoy coffee every day without worrying about calorie intake, while still keeping the pleasure of the coffee break.

The coffee is one of the least caloric beverages you can drink, both as espresso and as macchiato, as long as you pay attention to sugars and add-ons. For those who want to explore topics related to coffee culture, the characteristics of different blends, or the secrets of grinding, on CaffèLAB you can find plenty of technical insights designed for enthusiasts and professionals.