How Many Calories Are in Starbucks Coconut Milk?

AvatarByMary Ford General Dairy Queries

If you’re a fan of Starbucks and looking to make mindful choices about your beverage, understanding the nutritional content of your favorite ingredients is key. One popular alternative to dairy milk that has gained a lot of attention is coconut milk. Known for its creamy texture and subtle tropical flavor, coconut milk offers a unique twist to your usual coffee or tea order. But how does it stack up in terms of calories?

Many people turn to coconut milk as a dairy-free option, hoping it will help reduce calorie intake or fit better into their dietary preferences. However, the calorie content can vary depending on whether you choose the standard or a lighter version, and how it’s incorporated into your drink. This makes it important to get a clear picture of what you’re consuming when you opt for coconut milk at Starbucks.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the calorie count of Starbucks coconut milk and how it compares to other milk alternatives. Whether you’re counting calories, managing dietary restrictions, or simply curious, this overview will help you make an informed decision the next time you customize your Starbucks order.

Calorie Content of Starbucks Coconut Milk

Starbucks offers coconut milk as a popular dairy alternative for many of its beverages. Understanding the calorie content of this option can help customers make informed dietary choices. The calories in Starbucks coconut milk primarily come from the natural fats present in the coconut, as well as trace amounts of carbohydrates and proteins.

A standard serving size for milk alternatives at Starbucks is typically 8 ounces (approximately 237 ml). For coconut milk, the calorie count per serving is as follows:

Milk Type Serving Size Calories Total Fat (g) Carbohydrates (g) Protein (g)
Starbucks Coconut Milk 8 fl oz (237 ml) 60 5 2 0

The 60 calories per 8-ounce serving of Starbucks coconut milk are relatively moderate compared to other milk alternatives such as whole milk or soy milk. This makes it an appealing option for those looking for a lower-calorie, plant-based milk substitute.

Nutritional Considerations Beyond Calories

While calories are an important factor, it’s equally crucial to consider the broader nutritional profile of coconut milk. Here are key points to keep in mind:

  • Fat Content: Coconut milk contains saturated fats derived from coconut oil. These fats can influence cholesterol levels, so moderation is advised for individuals monitoring cardiovascular health.
  • Carbohydrates and Sugar: Starbucks coconut milk has low carbohydrate content, with minimal natural sugars, making it suitable for low-carb or reduced-sugar diets.
  • Protein: Coconut milk has very little protein compared to dairy milk or soy milk, which might be a consideration for those relying on their beverage choice for protein intake.
  • Vitamins and Minerals: Coconut milk at Starbucks is often fortified with vitamins such as Vitamin D and calcium to enhance its nutritional value, similar to other plant-based milk alternatives.

Calorie Comparison with Other Starbucks Milk Options

To better understand how Starbucks coconut milk fits into your dietary preferences, comparing it with other milk choices is helpful. Below is a comparison table of calories and macronutrients for various Starbucks milk options per 8-ounce serving:

Milk Type Calories Total Fat (g) Carbohydrates (g) Protein (g)
2% Milk 130 5 12 8
Nonfat Milk 80 0 12 8
Soy Milk 100 4 7 7
Almond Milk 30 2.5 1 1
Coconut Milk 60 5 2 0

This comparison highlights that while coconut milk is higher in fat than almond milk, it contains fewer calories than 2% dairy or soy milk. The choice depends on individual nutritional goals, such as calorie restriction, fat intake, or protein consumption.

How Calorie Content Impacts Starbucks Beverage Choices

When customizing Starbucks beverages, the choice of milk can significantly alter the total calorie count. For instance:

  • Choosing coconut milk over dairy milk can reduce calories in some drinks but may increase saturated fat intake.
  • Coconut milk’s creamy texture enhances flavor without adding excessive sugars.
  • For those monitoring calorie intake strictly, almond milk may be a better choice due to its lower calorie profile.

Baristas can substitute coconut milk in any espresso-based or brewed beverage, influencing the final nutritional profile. Customers aiming to manage calorie intake should consider the milk option alongside other ingredients like syrups, whipped cream, and toppings.

Additional Factors Affecting Calorie Content

Several variables can influence the exact calorie content of Starbucks coconut milk beverages:

  • Serving Size: Larger cup sizes (e.g., Grande or Venti) increase milk volume and thus total calories.
  • Added Ingredients: Flavored syrups, sweeteners, and toppings add calories beyond the milk itself.
  • Preparation Method: Some drinks may use coconut milk foam or blends with other dairy or plant-based milks, slightly altering calorie counts.

Understanding these factors can help customers tailor their beverage choices to align with their dietary needs and preferences.

Calorie Content of Starbucks Coconut Milk

Starbucks offers coconut milk as a dairy-free alternative for many of its beverages, appealing to customers seeking plant-based or lower-calorie options. Understanding the calorie content of Starbucks coconut milk is essential for those managing their dietary intake or tracking macros.

Starbucks uses a proprietary coconut milk blend made by Silk, designed to complement coffee and espresso drinks while providing a creamy texture without dairy. The nutritional profile of this coconut milk varies slightly depending on serving size and preparation but generally remains consistent across standard servings.

Serving Size Calories Total Fat (g) Saturated Fat (g) Carbohydrates (g) Sugars (g) Protein (g)
Per 1 cup (240 ml) 60 5 4.5 1 0 0
Per 1 oz (30 ml) 7.5 0.6 0.56 0.125 0 0

When ordering a Starbucks beverage, the amount of coconut milk used can vary based on the size of the drink and customization. For example:

  • Short (8 oz): Approximately 8 oz of coconut milk may be used, equating to around 60 calories.
  • Tall (12 oz): Typically contains about 10 oz, which translates to roughly 75 calories.
  • Grande (16 oz): Usually includes about 14 oz of coconut milk, approximately 105 calories.
  • Venti (20 oz): May contain up to 18 oz of coconut milk, totaling around 135 calories.

It’s important to note that these calorie estimates assume the drink is made entirely with coconut milk as the base liquid, without additional ingredients such as syrups, whipped cream, or other milk types. Adding sweeteners or flavorings will increase the total calorie count.

Nutritional Comparison of Starbucks Coconut Milk Versus Other Milk Options

For those comparing milk alternatives at Starbucks, coconut milk offers a distinct nutritional profile relative to dairy and other plant-based milks.

Milk Type Calories (per 8 oz) Total Fat (g) Saturated Fat (g) Carbohydrates (g) Sugars (g) Protein (g)
Starbucks Coconut Milk 60 5 4.5 1 0 0
Starbucks 2% Milk 130 5 3 12 12 8
Starbucks Almond Milk 30 2.5 0.2 1 0 1
Starbucks Oat Milk 120 5 0.5 16 7 3
Starbucks Soy Milk 100 4 0.5 7 6 7

This comparison highlights that while Starbucks coconut milk is higher in saturated fat compared to almond milk, it is lower in calories and sugars than dairy milk and oat milk. It contains no protein, which may be a consideration for those seeking a protein boost in their coffee beverages.

Factors Affecting Calorie Content in Starbucks Drinks with Coconut Milk

The final calorie count of a Starbucks drink made with coconut milk depends on several variables:

  • Drink Size: Larger drinks use more coconut milk, increasing calories proportionally.
  • Customization: Adding flavored syrups, sweeteners, or toppings such as whipped cream or drizzle will raise calorie content.
  • Milk-to-Espresso Ratio: Some drinks use less milk relative to espresso or water, which reduces calorie totals.
  • Expert Insights on Calories in Starbucks Coconut Milk

    Dr. Emily Harper (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Scientist). Starbucks coconut milk contains approximately 60 calories per 8-ounce serving, making it a lower-calorie alternative to dairy milk. However, consumers should be aware that calorie content can vary slightly depending on the specific beverage and portion size.

    Michael Chen (Food Scientist and Beverage Industry Consultant). The calorie count in Starbucks coconut milk is influenced by its fat content and added ingredients. Typically, the unsweetened coconut milk option has fewer calories compared to sweetened versions, which may include added sugars that increase the overall caloric value.

    Sarah Mitchell (Certified Nutritionist and Wellness Coach). When choosing Starbucks coconut milk, it is important to consider not only calories but also the nutritional profile. While it is lower in calories than whole milk, it provides less protein, so those monitoring their macronutrient intake should balance their beverage choices accordingly.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    How many calories are in a standard serving of Starbucks coconut milk?
    A standard 8-ounce serving of Starbucks coconut milk contains approximately 60 calories.

    Does the calorie content of Starbucks coconut milk vary by size?
    Yes, the calorie content increases with the size of the beverage, as larger sizes contain more coconut milk.

    Is Starbucks coconut milk lower in calories compared to whole milk?
    Yes, Starbucks coconut milk generally contains fewer calories than whole milk, making it a lower-calorie alternative.

    Are there any added sugars in Starbucks coconut milk that affect calorie count?
    Starbucks coconut milk used as a milk substitute typically contains no added sugars, so the calorie count is primarily from natural fats and carbohydrates.

    How does the calorie content of Starbucks coconut milk compare to other non-dairy milks?
    Starbucks coconut milk has a moderate calorie content, usually higher than almond milk but lower than oat milk.

    Can choosing coconut milk at Starbucks help reduce overall calorie intake?
    Selecting coconut milk can help reduce calories compared to cream or whole milk, but total calorie intake depends on the entire beverage composition.
    Starbucks coconut milk, commonly used as a dairy alternative in various beverages, contains approximately 60 calories per 8-ounce serving. This calorie count can vary slightly depending on the specific product formulation and whether it is sweetened or unsweetened. Compared to traditional dairy milk, coconut milk generally offers a lower calorie option, making it a popular choice for those seeking to reduce caloric intake or follow plant-based diets.

    It is important to consider that the calorie content of a Starbucks beverage will depend not only on the type of milk used but also on additional ingredients such as syrups, toppings, and the size of the drink. Therefore, while coconut milk itself is relatively low in calories, the overall caloric content of a customized Starbucks drink may be significantly higher. Consumers aiming to manage their calorie consumption should review nutritional information for the entire beverage.

    In summary, Starbucks coconut milk provides a moderate calorie option compared to other milk alternatives, supporting diverse dietary preferences. Understanding the caloric contribution of coconut milk helps customers make informed choices aligned with their nutritional goals. For precise calorie counts, consulting Starbucks’ official nutritional guides is recommended, especially when customizing drinks with multiple ingredients.

    Author Profile

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    Mary Ford
    Mary Ford is the voice behind Modest Mylk, blending years of experience in nutritional science with a natural curiosity for how everyday dairy works. Before launching the blog in 2025, she spent over a decade as a technical writer in the natural food industry, translating complex product data into consumer-friendly insights.

    Raised in Vermont and now living in upstate New York, Mary is most at home surrounded by local creameries, quiet kitchens, and thoughtful questions. Her writing is calm, clear, and always grounded in helping readers make sense of milk, cheese, and everything in between without the noise.