If you’re looking for a warm and creamy coffee drink, the Starbucks Caffe Latte is a fantastic choice. As one of Starbucks most popular hot drinks, it perfectly blends espresso and steamed milk, topped with a thin layer of foam. Whether you enjoy a bold coffee taste or a smooth, comforting drink, the Caffe Latte offers a well-balanced experience.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Starbucks Caffe Latte, including its sizes, prices, calories, ingredients, and customization options.
What is a Caffe Latte?
A Caffe Latte is a simple yet delicious espresso-based drink made with:
- Espresso: The strong coffee base.
- Steamed milk: Creates a creamy, smooth texture.
- Foam: A light layer of foam tops off the drink for a velvety finish.
The Caffe Latte has a rich, mild flavor that is less intense than a cappuccino due to the higher milk-to-espresso ratio. It’s a great option for those who enjoy a milder coffee experience.
Sizes, Prices, and Calories
At Starbucks, the Caffe Latte is available in four different sizes. Here’s an overview of their estimated prices and calorie counts in the U.S.:
| Size | Price (Approx.) | Calories |
| Short (8 oz) | $5.61 | 100 |
| Tall (12 oz) | $5.72 | 150 |
| Grande (16 oz) | $6.48 | 190 |
| Venti (20 oz) | $7.02 | 250 |
💡 Note: Prices may vary based on location, and adding flavors or milk alternatives can affect the total cost and calorie content. Check the latest prices and nutritional details on the Starbucks official website.
Ingredients
A standard Starbucks Caffe Latte is made with:
- Brewed Espresso
- Milk (2% standard, but customizable)
For those looking for dairy-free or lower-calorie options, Starbucks offers alternative milk choices such as almond, soy, oat, and coconut milk. Each of these options alters the calorie and fat content of the drink.
How Alternative Milks Affect the Drink
- Oat Milk: Adds a naturally sweet, creamy texture, making the latte richer.
- Almond Milk: Lighter and lower in calories, with a subtle nutty flavor.
- Soy Milk: Creamy and slightly sweet, with a thicker texture than almond milk.
- Coconut Milk: Adds a tropical hint and is lower in protein compared to other options.
Nutrition Information
The nutritional content of a Starbucks Caffe Latte varies by size and milk selection. Below is a general breakdown for a standard Caffe Latte made with 2% milk:
| Nutrition | Short (8 oz) | Tall (12 oz) | Grande (16 oz) | Venti (20 oz) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 100 | 150 | 190 | 250 |
| Fat | 3.5 g | 6 g | 7 g | 9 g |
| Cholesterol | 15 mg | 25 mg | 30 mg | 40 mg |
| Sodium | 85 mg | 135 mg | 170 mg | 220 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g | 15 g | 19 g | 24 g |
| Protein | 6 g | 10 g | 13 g | 16 g |
| Caffeine | 75 mg** | 75 mg** | 150 mg** | 150 mg** |
** Caffeine is an approximate value.↩
💡 Note: Caffeine content may vary slightly based on brewing methods and regional variations. For the most accurate information, checkout the Starbucks official website.
Customization Options
One of the best things about Starbucks is the ability to customize drinks to your preference. Here are some popular ways to personalize your Caffe Latte:
✅ Milk Alternatives: Choose almond, soy, oat, coconut, or non-fat milk for different textures and flavors. (Each alters calorie and fat content.)
✅ Extra Espresso Shots: Want a stronger taste and more caffeine? Add an extra shot of espresso.
✅ Syrups & Flavors: Enhance your latte with vanilla, caramel, hazelnut, or seasonal syrups.
✅ Toppings: Add whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or cinnamon for extra indulgence.
Caffe Latte vs. Other Espresso Drinks
How does the Caffe Latte compare to similar Starbucks drinks? Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | Caffe Latte | Cappuccino | Flat White |
| Espresso-to-Milk Ratio | More milk | Equal parts milk & foam | Less milk, more espresso |
| Foam | Light layer | Thick layer | Velvety microfoam |
| Strength | Smooth & mild | Balanced | Stronger coffee taste |
| Who Should Choose It? | Latte lovers who prefer more milk | Those who enjoy a balanced espresso taste with foam | Coffee lovers who prefer a bolder taste |
💡 If you prefer a milkier drink, go for a Caffe Latte. If you want a stronger coffee flavor with more foam, try a Cappuccino or Flat White.
Why People Love the Caffe Latte
The Starbucks Caffe Latte is a classic for many reasons:
- Smooth and Balanced: The steamed milk softens the bold espresso flavor.
- Customizable: You can make it sweeter, stronger, or lighter depending on your preference.
- Great for Any Time of Day: Whether you need a morning caffeine boost or a relaxing afternoon treat, the Caffe Latte fits the occasion.
FAQs
Is the Starbucks Caffe Latte stronger than a Flat White?
No, the Flat White has a stronger coffee taste because it has a higher espresso-to-milk ratio and uses microfoam instead of regular steamed milk.
What’s the best milk for a dairy-free latte?
Can I add flavors to my Caffe Latte?
Does Starbucks use real espresso in a Caffe Latte?
How many shots of espresso are in a Starbucks Caffe Latte?
Which milk is best for a low-calorie Caffe Latte?
What’s the difference between a Caffe Latte and a Flat White?
Final Thoughts
The Starbucks Caffe Latte is a timeless favorite for coffee lovers. Its combination of espresso, steamed milk, and foam creates a rich yet smooth experience that can be customized in endless ways. Whether you enjoy it plain or with added flavors, there’s a version of the Caffe Latte for everyone.
Next time you visit Starbucks, try a Caffe Latte and make it your own! ☕✨
💡 Pro Tip: If you love espresso drinks, consider trying the Flat White for a bolder coffee taste or the Caramel Macchiato for a sweeter twist!