The Caffè Americano is a bold yet smooth espresso-based coffee that’s a staple on Starbucks hot coffee menu. But what makes it so special? This guide covers its ingredients, caffeine content, customization options, and how it compares to other Starbucks coffee drinks.
What is a Caffè Americano?
A Caffè Americano is a classic espresso drink made by adding hot water to shots of espresso. This process mellows out the strong espresso flavor while preserving its rich intensity.
Did You Know?
The Caffè Americano originated during World War II when American soldiers in Italy diluted espresso with water to create a coffee closer to what they were used to back home. (Source: Coffee History Journal)
Sizes, Prices And Calories
At Starbucks, the Caffè Americano comes in four different sizes. Here’s a quick look at the sizes, calories and their prices:
| Sizes | Prices | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Short (8 oz) | $4.74 | 5 |
| Tall (12 oz) | $4.84 | 10 |
| Grande (16 oz) | $5.17 | 15 |
| Venti (20 oz) | $5.72 | 15 |
Above are average estimates for U.S. Starbucks locations. For the most accurate pricing, check the Starbucks website or visit a nearby store.
Ingredients
The beauty of a Caffè Americano is its simplicity:
- Espresso shots
- Hot water
💡 Barista Tip: If you want a bolder flavor, ask for an extra espresso shot instead of ordering a larger size.
Nutrition Information
The Starbucks Caffè Americano is a low-calorie, zero-fat coffee. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional value:
| Nutrition | Short (8 oz) | Tall (12 oz) | Grande (16 oz) | Venti (20 oz) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 5 | 10 | 15 | 15 |
| Fat | 0 g | 0 g | 0 g | 0 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0 mg | 0 mg | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 5 mg | 10 mg | 10 mg | 15 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 1 g | 1 g | 2 g | 3 g |
| Protein | 0 g | 1 g | 1 g | 1 g |
| Caffeine | 75 mg* | 150 mg* | 225 mg* | 300 mg* |
** Caffeine is an approximate value.↩
The larger sizes have more espresso shots, so they have more caffeine. A Grande or Venti cup is perfect for those who need a serious energy boost.
Barista Tip: Want a stronger Americano? Ask for an extra espresso shot instead of a larger size to maintain a bolder flavor.
How Many Shots in a Caffè Americano?
| Size | Espresso Shots |
| Short | 1 shot |
| Tall | 2 shots |
| Grande | 3 shots |
| Venti | 4 shots |
If you want an even stronger caffeine, you can ask for an extra shot in your Americano.
How Does a Caffè Americano Compare to Other Starbucks Coffees?
| Drink | Base | Caffeine (Grande 16 oz) | Calories | Flavor Profile |
| Caffè Americano | Espresso + hot water | 225 mg | 15 | Bold, smooth |
| Brewed Coffee | Drip coffee | 310 mg | 5 | Mellow, mild |
| Caffè Latte | Espresso + steamed milk | 150 mg | 190 | Creamy, rich |
💡 Best Choice? If you love bold coffee but find espresso too strong, a Caffè Americano is the perfect middle ground.
Why Choose a Caffè Americano?
- Bold Flavor: Rich espresso taste, mellowed by water.
- High Caffeine: More caffeine than a latte but smoother than straight espresso.
- Low-Calorie Option: Perfect for those avoiding sugar and dairy.
💡 Pro Tip: Try a Blonde Americano for a sweeter, lighter taste or a Caffè Misto if you prefer a creamier texture.
Customization Options
One of the best things about ordering a Caffè Americano at Starbucks is the ability to make it your own:
- Syrups: Caramel, vanilla, hazelnut, mocha
- Milk Choices: Almond, oat, soy, coconut, or dairy
- Extra Shots: More espresso = stronger coffee
- Iced Version: Refreshing for warm days
Americano with Oat Milk Calories
If you prefer your Americano with oat milk, expect 30–40 additional calories per serving, depending on the size.
Calories in Customized Americanos
| Customization | Calories (Grande 16 oz) |
| Black Americano | 15 |
| With Whole Milk | 40 |
| With Oat Milk | 55 |
| With Vanilla Syrup | 80 |
| With Mocha Sauce | 120 |
FAQs About Starbucks Caffè Americano
How many shots of espresso are in a Starbucks Americano?
- Short & Tall: 2 shots
- Grande: 3 shots
- Venti: 4 shots
Is an Americano stronger than brewed coffee?
Can I make a Starbucks Americano at home?
How much caffeine is in a Venti Americano?
Is Americano low calorie?
Can I add milk to an Americano?
What’s the difference between an Americano and regular brewed coffee?
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a coffee expert or a newbie, the Starbucks Caffè Americano is a must-try. With its bold taste, low calories, and endless customizations, it’s easy to see why this drink is a Starbucks favorite!