Whilst we don’t like to calorie count, it can be useful to know just what’s in your coffee so that you can sip it guilt-free…

So, are there calories in coffee? Short answer — it depends. The calories in coffee can vary from the type of milk you use to the quantity of sugar you add. And that’s not even counting any additional toppings (yes, even we can’t resist a dollop of whipped cream and a chocolate dusting on top of our coffee).

For those who are looking to gain weight or lose it, counting calories in coffee can be an effective way to see results. This is especially true if you’re an avid drinker of the stuff. That being said, it’s also important to be responsible and not obsess over calories.

Even if you’re looking to lose weight, coffee which has a slightly higher calorie count shouldn’t be put on the red list. Instead, use your newfound knowledge to help you enjoy the things you love in moderation.

How many calories are there in a cup of coffee?

Let’s take a look at the calories in the most popular types of coffee.

Calories in Black coffee

Black coffee scores lowest on the calorie chart, serving up a puny two calories per cup.

Because it’s pretty much just powdered beans and hot water this is hardly surprising. If you like to guzzle your coffee by the gallon then you may choose to incorporate a few cups of the plain stuff into your day.

Of course, once you start adding sugar the calorie count goes up. One teaspoon of sugar boosts the calories in your coffee, adding an additional 14 calories. Of course, this is still a very low amount, meaning you can happily drink a few cups of coffee with sugar in it, even if you are trying to cut down on calories.

Calories in coffee with milk

Typically, a coffee with one tablespoon (or 15ml) of skimmed milk will add seven calories to your cup. If you like your coffee on the stronger side then this shouldn’t matter. However, if you prefer a slightly creamier finish then you may find each cup of coffee has an added 14 calories per cup.

Calories in a latte

The amount of calories in a latte can vary depending on where you buy your coffee from. This is because different shops will use different types of milk or you may choose to add additional flavoured syrups, which also add calories. However, if you decide to make a latte at home then you can judge the amount of calories in each cup a little more accurately.

Depending on the size of your glass ,the amount of milk you should use should range between 150ml-230ml. If you’re using semi-skimmed milk then this means your calorie count can be between 77-119 calories.

Calories in a flat white

A flat white is a smaller, stronger drink when compared to a latte, but its calorie count is almost identical. A flat white can range between 80-120 calories, depending on the type of milk you use. And remember, it’ll go up by 14 calories for each teaspoon of sugar you add.

Difference in calories between skimmed, semi and whole milk

Skimmed milk

Out of the three different choices of cow’s milk, skimmed milk provides the lowest coffee calories. One 200ml cup contains under 70 calories and less than 0.3% fat.

Semi skimmed milk

This option has a slightly higher calorie count, coming in at 95 calories per 200ml cup.

Full fat

Unsurprisingly, full fat scores the highest when it comes to calorie counting. Each 200ml cup serves up a cool 136 calories. Remember, this doesn’t mean it’s unhealthy: full fat milk is packed with nutrients which contributes to a healthy body. High calories doesn’t equal low health. You can still incorporate full fat milk into your coffee in a healthy, moderate way.

Which plant milk is lowest in calories?

Don’t worry if you’re not into dairy. There are plenty of plant-based milk options for you to try. And, if you’re conscious about coffee calories, then you’ll be pleased to know that many plant milk varieties rank low when it comes to the number crunching.

A cup of unsweetened almond milk ranks the lowest out of all plan milks: a 240ml serving provides an additional 41 calories. If almonds aren’t quite to your taste then coconut milk comes in at a close second, serving up 46 calories. If you have a nut allergy then you may find that soy milk is the best option: at 80 calories per cup, it still has roughly the same amount of calories as skimmed milk.

When you make your coffee at home you may decide to switch your routine up slightly to cut a few calories. However, the secret to how to make the best coffee at home is to try to avoid counting coffee calories.

OK, so we know we’ve just told you exactly how many calories are in each cup, but you should take these as general guidelines, not as a rigid rule book. Make coffee how you want to, even if it means adding in half a teaspoon extra of sugar or a sneaky splash of full-fat milk.