Calories from Starbucks Iced Coffee with Cream
Starbucks is renowned for its range of coffee-based drinks, with many of them being very indulgent. Iced coffee is a no exception, with customers flocking to Starbucks’ restaurants for their creamy iced coffee drinks. But how many calories are in one of these drinks?
The answer differs depending on which iced coffee you wish to order. For example, a Grande Iced Coffee with Whole Milk and Creme Frappuccino Syrupts short or tall would contain a whopping 200 calories from its combination of espresso, ice, milk and syrup. If you opt for a slightly healthier option and order an Iced Coffee with Skim Milk topped with one Packet of Pure Via, this contains only 80 calories.
When choosing between different types of Starbucks’ Iced Coffee, always check the calorie content by referring to the nutritional information printed on its cups. It is also advised to watch out for empty calories such as added sugars and syrups which could significantly increase the total calorie count.
The majority of the calories in Starbucks Iced Coffees come from either the milk or the added syrups. Whole fat milk has nearly double the calories of skimmed milk, while higher fat or sugary syrups can send your calorie count through the roof. However, with certain ingredients like cream, the calories remain the same regardless of the size of your cup, with cream adding around 40 calories to your drink. If you require a more sugar-based flavor, consider ordering sugar-free syrups or stevia to reduce your calorie intake.
It’s easy to customize your iced coffee to make it healthier and lower calorie. For instance, a tall Iced Coffee with Almond Milk and No Whip contains only 40 calories, which is much lower than some of the full-fat and sugar-filled versions. In addition, cold brew and iced espresso drinks also have significantly fewer calories than classic iced coffees made with regular espresso.
However, if you’re not looking to decrease your calorie intake, it’s easy to indulge while still being aware of what you’re consuming. For example, ordering an Iced Coffee with Half and Half and one pump of Vanilla Syrup can be a delicious and creamy treat.
Coffee-Based Frappuccinos
Frappuccinos are one of Starbucks’ most beloved drinks, combining coffee and ice with creams, syrups and chocolate. These can also be surprisingly high in calories, even with healthier-sounding combinations. For example, a Grande Caffe Vanilla Frappuccino with 2% Milk and No Whip contains 250 calories, which is slightly more than a Grande Iced Coffee with Whole Milk and Creme Frappuccino Syrup.
Similar to iced coffees, it’s possible to decrease the calorie count of a Frappuccino by adjusting the ingredients. For instance, a Caffe Vanilla Frappuccino with Soy Milk and No Whip only contains 170 calories. As with iced coffee, also be waryof added syrups and creamers, as these can increase the drink’s calorie count.
Refreshing Teas
If you don’t want to consume any additional calories, Starbucks also offers a selection of zero-calorie teas, such as the Strawberry Acai Refresher and Peach Green Tea Lemonade. The Peach Green Tea Lemonade is a healthy, caffeinated alternative to other drinks, and contains less than 20 calories per 16oz cup. This can be an excellent choice for anyone looking to cool down while also avoiding calories.
The Teavana Iced Teas are also low calorie and refreshing. One of the most popular choices is the Emperor’s Cloud & Mist Green Tea, which contains just 4 calories in each 16 fl oz cup. Similarly, the Emperor’s Cloud & Mist Lemonade also only contains around 10 calories in each 16 fl oz serving.
Sugary Drinks
Another one of Starbucks’ most popular drinks is the Caramel Macchiato, a creamy and decadent combination of espresso, steamed milk, vanilla syrup and whipped cream. While its delicious combination of flavors can make it an enticing choice, it is also very high in calories. In particular, a Grande Caramel Macchiato with Whole Milk and Whipped Cream contains 250 calories, the same as the Caramel Frappuccino with 2% Milk and No Whip.
Therefore, if you’re watching your calorie intake, it’s best to stick to low-calorie alternatives such as the Teavana Iced Teas or or even opt for a Decaf Cappuccino. This contains around 15 calories in a Tall cup and can be enjoyed with a dash of steamed milk and no cream or sugar.
Variations for Dairy-Free Options
If you require a dairy-free alternative, Starbucks still has plenty of flavorful drinks to choose from. As mentioned, almond milk only adds around 40 calories to an iced coffee, however other plant-based milks such as coconut and soya milk contain the same amount of calories as 2% milk.
It’s important to note, if you order a milk-free Frappuccino, the drink will inevitably be much lower in calories. All Frappuccinos made with water contain zero calories, however any added syrups or creamers can quickly send the calorie count up. If you’re looking for a milk-free Frappuccino but don’t want any additional sweeteners, order either a Vanilla Bean Frappuccino with Water or a Caramel Frappuccino with no Frappuccino Roast.
Eat Before You Drink
When it comes to reducing calorie intake, one of the most important considerations is when you drink your Starbucks order. Eating food before drinking an energy-filled iced coffee or Frappuccino can help to reduce the inevitable sugar crash one experiences after drinking them as the food helps to stabilise your blood sugar.
Alternative Sweeteners
When combined with powerful stimulants such as coffee and sugary syrups, it’s easy to experience a huge surge in energy However, it’s important to remember that these energy boosts can be short-lived, leaving you feeling tired shortly afterwards. To prevent this, consider sweetening your iced coffee or Starbucks drink with a healthy, low-calorie alternative.
Natural, plant-derived sweeteners such as stevia and monkfruit are both excellent options. In addition, many of the lower-fat syrups now available can provide a slightly sweeter flavor without pushing up the calorie count too much.
Healthier Add-Ins
In addition to alternate sweeteners, there are several healthy and low-calorie add-in options you can use to enhance the flavor of your Starbucks drinks. Coconut milk is a great dairy-free choice, and it also provides a nice creamy texture. Additionally, natural spices such as cinnamon, cardamom and nutmeg can add a burst of flavor and depth to your iced coffees and Frappuccinos and don’t add any extra calories.
Finally, consider adding a pinch of sea salt when making an iced coffee. Sea salt helps to balance out the sweetness and can help to mellow the intense flavor of espresso, making the drink much more enjoyable. Plus, it won’t add any calories.
