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- Espresso: The Ultimate Low-Calorie Coffee Fix
- How Many Calories Does a Cup of Coffee Have?
- What are the lowest-calorie coffees?
- 5 Ways to Reduce Calories in Coffee
- Low Calories Coffee BUT with Flavour!
There's something truly enchanting about the aroma of freshly brewed coffee that can instantly awaken the senses and set the tone for a productive day. That’s probably why an estimated 2.25 billion cups of coffee are consumed every single day around the world! For many of us, coffee is more than just a beverage; it's a cherished ritual, a source of comfort, and a much-needed energy boost. However, it can also be high in calories when loaded with sugar, cream, and milk. If you're looking to make your coffee low-calorie, there are several ways to do so without sacrificing taste or quality.
Espresso: The Ultimate Low-Calorie Coffee Fix
Espresso, the concentrated and intense form of coffee, is a popular choice for coffee lovers seeking a quick jolt of energy and robust flavour. When it comes to calorie content, espresso itself is incredibly low in calories. A typical shot of espresso, which is around 1 ounce (30 millilitres), contains a mere 1 to 2 calories. The minimal caloric value of espresso can largely be attributed to its brewing process, which involves finely ground coffee beans being rapidly infused with hot water under high pressure. This results in a concentrated and flavorful beverage that packs a punch without adding significant calories to your daily intake.
Read about these sugar alternatives to help you cut down on the amount of calories in a cup of coffee.
How Many Calories Does a Cup of Coffee Have?
A cup of coffee can vary in calorie count depending on the type of coffee and the additions made to it. Here is a list of how many calories are in commonly consumed cups of coffee:
- Black coffee: One cup of black coffee with no milk or sugar contains approximately 1 calorie per 4 ounces. On average, a cup of brewed black coffee from ground beans contains 2 calories.
- Espresso: A shot of espresso typically contains only 1-2 calories.
- Coffee with milk: A regular latte with whole mmilk has around 200 calories and a cappuccino has 150 calories (cappuccinos are less because they have less milk). With skim-milk it halves to 100 calories for lattes and 75 calories for cappuccinos. A regular cup of coffee with skimmed milk has 12 calories, while a regular cup of coffee with semi-skimmed milk has 17 calories. A tablespoon of whole milk contains 9 calories, while a tablespoon of cream contains 52 calories.
- Adding Sugar to Coffee: A tablespoon of sugar contains 48 calories.
What are the lowest-calorie coffees?
As you’ve surmised by now, the lowest-calorie coffees are usually the ones that have the least additions to them. But you can still mix things with just coffee and water:
- Americano/Black Coffee/Long Black: Easily made by diluting espresso shots with hot water, resulting in a slightly milder and larger cup of coffee. Since it is primarily water and espresso, the calories is the same as an espresso!
- Cold Brew Coffee: Cold brew coffee is made by steeping coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period, usually overnight. The slow extraction process creates a smooth and less acidic coffee concentrate. Cold brew coffee is typically consumed diluted with water or over ice.
- Espresso: The OG way to enjoy a cuppa and it’s just 1-2 calories (but you already knew that).
Top 5 Ways to Reduce Calories in Coffee
Besides drinking black coffee or espresso shots, how else can you ensure that you steer clear of unwanted calories?
- Choose Low-Calorie Sweeteners: If you prefer a touch of sweetness in your coffee, opt for low-calorie sweeteners like honey, agave nectar, or vanilla extract. These alternatives provide sweetness without adding significant calories.
- Use Non-Dairy Milk Alternatives: If you enjoy creamy coffee but want to cut down on calories, consider using non-dairy milk alternatives such as almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. These options are often lower in calories than regular dairy milk.
- Measure Your Portions: Be mindful of how much coffee you consume. Stick to standard serving sizes and avoid going overboard. Using a measuring cup or a coffee scale can help you control your portion sizes and keep track of your calorie intake – particularly when adding high-calorie ingredients like cream or sugar-based syrups.
- Experiment with Herbs and Spices: Enhance the flavour of your coffee with calorie-free additions like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cocoa powder. These natural and aromatic spices can elevate your coffee experience without adding extra calories.
Coffee does a lot of good to your mind and body. Read about the health benefits of coffee.
Low Calorie Coffee BUT with Flavour
By making simple adjustments to your coffee routine, such as choosing black coffee, using low-calorie sweeteners, opting for non-dairy milk alternatives, and being mindful of portion sizes, you can enjoy your daily brew with peace of mind. Whether you prefer the boldness of espresso, the smoothness of cold brew, or the simplicity of black coffee, there are plenty of ways to reduce calories without sacrificing flavour. By exploring different brewing methods, experimenting with herbs and spices, and making informed choices when it comes to speciality coffee drinks, you can craft a cup of joe that aligns with your wellness goals.
