Starbucks Espresso Coffee: Prices, Sizes, Calories & Best Customization Options
If you love strong, bold coffee with a concentrated flavor, Starbucks Espresso is a must-try. This small yet powerful coffee serves as the foundation for many beloved Starbucks beverages, such as lattes, cappuccinos, and macchiatos. Whether you enjoy it as a quick shot or customize it to suit your taste, espresso offers an intense coffee experience.
In this guide, we’ll explore Starbucks Espresso coffee in detail, covering its sizes, prices, calories, ingredients, nutritional information, and customization options.
What is Starbucks Espresso?
Espresso is a highly concentrated coffee brewed by forcing hot water through finely ground coffee beans at high pressure. This process extracts a rich, bold shot of coffee with a signature golden crema on top a natural foam that enhances smoothness and provides a velvety mouthfeel.
Starbucks uses 100% Arabica beans for its espresso, roasted to perfection for a balanced, full-bodied flavor. Customers can choose between:
- Signature Espresso Roast (rich and bold)
- Blonde Espresso Roast (Milder, slightly sweet and smooth).
💡Pro Tip: If you prefer a strong, bold taste, go for the Signature Espresso Roast. If you like a smoother, lighter flavor, the Blonde Espresso Roast is ideal.
Why Choose Starbucks Espresso Coffee?
Espresso is perfect for those who enjoy pure, bold coffee. Here’s why it stands out:
- Quick & Powerful – A concentrated caffeine boost in just a few sips.
- Customizable: Enjoy it solo or use it as a base for lattes, cappuccinos, and more.
- Low-Calorie: Ideal for those avoiding extra sugar and dairy.
- Premium Coffee Beans: Made with 100% ethically sourced Arabica beans.
💡 Pro Tip: If you want a stronger caffeine, add an extra shot or switch to Blonde Espresso Roast for a smoother energy boost.
Starbucks Espresso Sizes, Prices & Calories (U.S. Locations)
Espresso is available in four sizes at Starbucks:
| Sizes | Prices | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Solo (0.75 fl oz) | $3.54 | 5 |
| Doppio (1.5 fl oz) | $3.76 | 10 |
| Triple (2.25 fl oz) | $3.97 | 15 |
| Quad (3 fl oz) | $4.30 | 20 |
📌 Note: Prices vary based on location, taxes, and Starbucks store policies. Check the Starbucks website or app for real-time pricing in your area.
Starbucks Espresso: Full Nutrition Breakdown
Despite its strong flavor, Starbucks Espresso is naturally low in calories and contains no added sugar or milk.
| Nutrition | Solo (0.75 fl oz) | Doppio (1.5 fl oz) | Triple (2.25 fl oz) | Quad (3 fl oz) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 5 | 10 | 15 | 20 |
| Fat | 0 g | 0 g | 0 g | 0 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0 mg | 0 mg | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 0 mg | 0 mg | 0 mg | 0 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 1 g | 2 g | 3 g | 4 g |
| Protein | 0 g | 1 g | 2 g | 2 g |
| Caffeine | 75 mg* | 150 mg* | 225 mg* | 300 mg* |
** Caffeine content is approximate and may vary based on brewing method and store location.
💡 Pro Tip: Want more caffeine? Try adding extra espresso shots or opt for Blonde Espresso Roast for a smoother but equally strong energy boost.
How to Customize Your Espresso at Starbucks
Want to make your espresso unique? Starbucks offers plenty of customization options:
- Extra Shots: Add more espresso shots for a stronger kick.
- Flavored Syrups: Try vanilla, caramel, hazelnut, or toffee nut.
- Milk & Dairy Alternatives: Add whole milk, half-and-half, or non-dairy options like almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk (may cost extra).
- Iced Espresso: Enjoy it iced for a refreshing cold brew twist.
💡 Pro Tip: Try ordering an Iced Shaken Espresso for a frothy, smoother taste with extra flavor.
Best Food Pairings with Starbucks Espresso
Want to enhance your espresso experience? Pair it with Starbucks pastries for the perfect balance of flavors.
- Croissant: A classic buttery pairing with a Doppio.
- Chocolate Cake Pop: Sweetness complements Bold Espresso Roast.
- Almond Biscotti: Crunchy, nutty flavors go well with Blonde Espresso.
- Cheese Danish: A creamy, savory contrast to rich espresso flavors.
💡 Pro Tip: Order a Double Espresso with a Butter Croissant for a simple yet classic European-style coffee experience.
Starbucks Espresso vs. Competitors: How Does It Compare?
Starbucks espresso stands out for its bolder flavor and multiple roast options, giving customers more ways to enjoy their coffee.
Feature | Starbucks | Dunkin’ | McDonald’s |
Espresso Roast | Signature & Blonde | Medium Roast | Medium Roast |
Caffeine (Doppio) | 150 mg | 118 mg | 142 mg |
Flavor Profile | Bold, caramel, balanced | Smooth, slightly bitter | Strong, slightly acidic |
Customization | Extensive | Limited | Basic |
What Makes Starbucks Espresso Unique?
- More Roast Options: Choose between bold Signature Roast or smooth Blonde Roast.
- Higher Caffeine Content: A Doppio (Double Shot) at Starbucks has more caffeine than Dunkin’ or McDonald’s.
- More Customization: Add flavors, milk alternatives, and extra shots.
Final Thoughts
Starbucks Espresso is an iconic coffee choice perfect for those who love bold, rich flavors. With two roast options, multiple sizes, and endless customization, it’s a great go-to whether you need a quick caffeine boost or want to experiment with flavors.
📌 For More Information: Visit the Starbucks Official Menu for the latest espresso offerings and prices.
Sophie Bennett
I’m Sophie Bennett, a food and coffee enthusiast passionate about exploring Starbucks' menu. With experience in blogging and digital content creation, I provide up-to-date insights on menu prices, new drinks, and expert recommendations. Stay tuned for the latest Starbucks updates!