Does Coffee Have Calories? Here’s What You Need to Know
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If you're calorie counting or simply curious about what’s in your cup, you may be wondering: does coffee have calories?
The good news is reassuring — especially if you enjoy black coffee.
Let’s break down the number of calories in coffee, how it changes depending on the type of coffee drink, and what happens when you add milk, sugar, or syrups.
Does Black Coffee Have Calories?
Yes — but very few.
A standard 240ml (8oz) cup of black coffee contains just 1–2 calories. Even a shot of espresso has a similarly negligible calorie content.
That’s because coffee beans contribute only trace amounts of oils, amino acids, and minerals when brewed. If you drink several cups of coffee per day without added sugars or milk, the calorie intake remains extremely low.
If you’re looking for flavour without extra calories, these speciality coffees are ideal:
👉 For brewing tips, see our guide on How to Make Black Coffee.
Calories in Coffee With Milk, Sugar, and Extras
Coffee stays almost calorie-free until you start adding ingredients. The calorie content can rise quickly depending on the type of milk, sugar, and portion size.
Calorie Comparison of Common Coffee Drinks
| Coffee Type | Approx. Calories |
|---|---|
| Black coffee | 1–2 calories |
| Coffee with a splash of semi skimmed milk | 15–20 calories |
| Coffee with a teaspoon of sugar | +16 calories |
| Coffee with skim milk | ~10–15 calories |
| Coffee with soy milk | ~25 calories |
| Flat white | 120–170 calories |
| Cappuccino | 80–120 calories |
| Latte | 150–250 calories |
| Mocha | 250–350 calories |
Using fat milk or multiple teaspoons of sugar can significantly increase the number of calories in your cup — something worth noting if you’re trying to lose weight.
If you enjoy café-style drinks at home, high-quality beans can reduce the need for added sugars:
You can also explore different styles in our guide to Different Types of Coffee.
Why Does Coffee Have Any Calories At All?
Although coffee is mostly water, the beans naturally contain:
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Oils
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Amino acids
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Small amounts of carbohydrates
During brewing, these compounds transfer into the drink in microscopic quantities. This is why black coffee still technically has calories — though the amount is so low it’s usually ignored in calorie counting.
Do Flavoured Coffees Have Calories?
The coffee itself does not.
Flavoured coffee beans — such as vanilla or hazelnut — are typically infused with flavour oils that add zero calories when brewed. However, flavoured syrups commonly used in coffee shops are high in added sugars and calories.
For flavour without the calorie hit, try naturally sweet-tasting origins or blends:
You can also browse our full Flavoured Coffee Collection.
Does Decaf Coffee Have Calories?
Yes — the same as regular coffee.
Decaffeinated coffee contains about 1–2 calories per cup. Removing caffeine does not change the calorie content.
If you’re sensitive to caffeine but still want great flavour, explore:
Learn more in our guide: What Is Decaffeinated Coffee?
Is Coffee a Good Low-Calorie Option for Weight Management?
Absolutely.
Black coffee is:
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Naturally low in calories
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Rich in antioxidants
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Appetite-suppressing for some people
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A smart alternative to sugary soft drinks
Just be mindful of add-ons. Milk choices, syrups, and sugar can quickly turn a low-calorie drink into a dessert-style coffee.
For more nutrition insights, you may find these helpful:
Conclusion
So, does coffee have calories?
Yes — but just 1–2 calories per cup if you drink it black. Coffee only becomes high in calories when you add milk, sugar, or syrups. If you're calorie counting or trying to lose weight, black coffee or lightly flavoured speciality coffee is one of the best low-calorie drinks you can choose.