The 10 Best Starbucks Drinks Under 200 Calories
Let’s face it, for a lot of us Starbucks is a daily tradition. And whether you need a shot of caffeine to power up the morning or a sweet treat to cool off the afternoon, it’s easy to get hooked. But those sugary, creamy drinks? They can stealthily pack hundreds of calories, and you never even see them coming. The good news: you don’t have to sacrifice your Starbucks habit to stay plant-based and healthy. There are so many drinks that are delicious and still fit in with your calorie goals. With a bit of know-how (and a couple of substitutions), you can sip a equivalent low-calorie mixed drink. Here, we break down the 10 best Starbucks drinks under 200 calories that are tasty, healthy, energizing, and even satisfying.
Why Low-Calorie Starbucks Drinks Matter
If you’re a regular Starbucks visitor (and let’s be real, many of us are), those calories can add up fast without you realizing it. A frappuccino or venti latte with whipped cream might feel like a harmless treat, but it can sneak in as many calories as a full meal. Choosing lower-calorie drinks doesn’t mean you’re “dieting” or missing out it’s about balance. You can still enjoy the flavors you love while keeping your energy levels steady and your health goals on track. Plus, low-calorie swaps often cut back on added sugars, which means fewer energy crashes later in the day.
Iced Shaken Espresso (100 Calories, Tall)
This is your go-to if you love a bold iced drink with a touch of sweetness. Made with Starbucks Blonde Espresso, ice, and a splash of 2% milk, it’s light and refreshing. It includes a bit of classic syrup, but you can ask for fewer pumps or substitute with sugar-free vanilla to bring the calorie count down even more.
Caffè Americano (15 Calories, Tall)
Simple, strong, and low-calorie, the Caffè Americano is espresso topped with hot water. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a rich coffee flavor without extras.
Cold Brew Coffee with Milk (35–50 Calories, Tall)
Cold Brew is naturally less acidic and smoother than regular iced coffee. Add a splash of your favorite milk (almond, oat, or nonfat) and you’ve got a drink that’s bold, satisfying, and still low in calories. Flavor Boost: Add one pump of sugar-free vanilla or cinnamon dolce syrup.
Iced Green Tea (0 Calories, Tall – Unsweetened)
Sometimes, you just want something refreshing that’s not coffee. The unsweetened Iced Green Tea is calorie-free and full of antioxidants. It’s brewed fresh and served over ice, making it a hydrating and flavorful choice. Want a little sweetness? Add Stevia or monk fruit for natural, zero-calorie sweetness.
Flat White with Almond Milk (100 Calories, Short)
Love creamy drinks? A short Flat White made with almond milk is rich in texture, slightly nutty, and comforting. It uses ristretto espresso shots, which are slightly sweeter and smoother than regular espresso. Health Bonus: Almond milk cuts down on calories and adds a touch of flavor.
Iced Peach Green Tea (60 Calories, Tall)
This drink is summer in a cup—lightly fruity and incredibly refreshing. It’s made with green tea, peach juice blend, and ice. No heavy syrups or dairy, just clean flavor under 100 calories. Ask for light peach juice to reduce calories further if needed.
Cappuccino with Nonfat Milk (60 Calories, Tall)
If you crave a hot, foamy coffee drink, the nonfat cappuccino is a classic choice. It’s made with a bold shot of espresso and lots of frothy nonfat milk, keeping it creamy without the fat and sugar of a latte. Try a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top for a flavor boost no calories added!
Iced Blonde Vanilla Latte with Almond Milk (130 Calories, Tall)
This one’s for those who love sweet lattes but want to skip the sugar bomb. Ask for almond milk and just one pump of vanilla syrup to keep the calorie count in check. Customize it: Swap in sugar-free vanilla syrup to cut even more calories.
Chai Tea (0 Calories, Tall – Brewed, Not Latte)
Skip the sugary Chai Latte and opt for the brewed Chai Tea instead. It’s warm, spicy, and totally calorie-free if you drink it plain. Pro tip: Add a dash of steamed almond milk and cinnamon for a cozy, low-calorie twist.
Espresso Con Panna (35 Calories, Solo)
Looking for something small but satisfying? Espresso con Panna gives you a rich espresso shot topped with a dollop of whipped cream. It’s decadent without overdoing it—perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up. Tiny indulgence, big flavor.
Quick Tips for Ordering Low-Calorie at Starbucks
If your favorite drink isn’t on this list, don’t worry. You can make almost any drink under 200 calories with a few simple tweaks:
- Choose a smaller size (Tall or Short)
- Use almond, oat, or nonfat milk
- Request fewer pumps of syrup
- Use sugar-free syrups or Stevia
- Skip the whipped cream
Starbucks Hacks for Flavor Without Calories
If you’re nervous that “low-calorie” means “boring,” here are a few insider tricks baristas (and regulars) swear by:
- Add spices instead of syrups: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cocoa powder add richness without calories.
- Go light on milk foam: Foam feels indulgent but adds almost no calories perfect for cappuccinos.
- Use sugar-free syrups wisely: Vanilla, caramel, and cinnamon dolce have sugar-free versions. They give you flavor without the sugar spike.
- Play with iced teas: Unsweetened teas are a blank canvas add lemon, a splash of coconut milk, or even a sugar-free shot for a custom drink.
- Try blonde espresso: It’s naturally sweeter and smoother, which means you can skip some syrup pumps.
Use the Starbucks Calorie Calculator
Want to experiment with custom drinks before heading to Starbucks? Try our Starbucks Calorie Calculator to build your perfect low-calorie drink in seconds. By adjusting milk types, syrup pumps, and sizes, you can explore dozens of options.
Final Sip
Starbucks doesn’t have to be a “cheat” or a guilty pleasure. With a little creativity and a few smart swaps, you can enjoy drinks that taste indulgent but still stay under 200 calories. Whether you’re craving bold coffee, creamy foam, or a refreshing iced tea, there’s an option that fits your lifestyle. And remember: it’s not about restriction. It’s about making choices that help you feel good without giving up your coffee ritual.
What’s the absolute lowest-calorie drink at Starbucks?
The lowest-calorie drink is plain brewed coffee or unsweetened iced tea, both of which have 0–5 calories.
Can I still order a Frappuccino under 200 calories?
Yes, but you’ll need to go small (Tall or even Short), choose nonfat or almond milk, and ask for sugar-free syrup. A Coffee Frappuccino Light is usually under 200 calories.
Which milk is best for low-calorie Starbucks drinks?
Almond milk typically has the lowest calories, followed by nonfat milk. Oat milk and whole milk are creamier but higher in calories.
Are sugar-free syrups at Starbucks really sugar-free?
Yes, Starbucks offers sugar-free vanilla, caramel, and cinnamon dolce syrups. They’re flavored with artificial sweeteners, so they add taste without calories.
What’s the healthiest sweetener option?
If you want to avoid artificial sweeteners, try Stevia or monk fruit packets, both available at most Starbucks stores.
Can I customize any drink to be under 200 calories?
In most cases, yes! Stick to smaller sizes, lighter milk, and fewer or sugar-free syrup pumps. Even a flavored latte can be trimmed down with these hacks.
