Does Coffee Have Calories? The Truth About Your Daily Brew

Does coffee have calories? It's a deep question most of us have pondered at some point as we lift the coffee mug to our mouth and sip this wonderful drink that brings us so much joy and comfort. 'Does coffee have calories? 'Are there vitamins in this drink?' 'Did I turn the oven off?' All the essential questions of life. The answers being yes. Yes. I hope so.

So dear reader, pour yourself a mug of your favorite brew and let's dive into this comprehensive guide to explore the calorie content of different coffee types, how add-ins change the nutritional profile, and why Organic, Fairtrade coffee may be a better choice for health-conscious consumers. Whether you drink it black or with all the extras, this post will help you sip smarter.

Does Coffee Have Calories?

At its most basic, coffee is a beverage made by brewing roasted coffee beans in hot water. On its own, black coffee has very few calories—typically just 1 to 5 calories per cup (8 oz). The exact number can vary slightly based on the type of bean and the brewing method, but it’s negligible for most diets.

For context, a calorie is defined as the amount of heat energy it takes to raise one liter of water one degree Celsius. For context, the average person burns about five calories going up one flight of stairs.

Anyways...back to our adventure - 

So where do the extra calories in coffee come from?

It’s all about what you add: sugar, milk, cream, syrups, whipped cream, and even flavored powders can significantly increase the calorie count.

Calories in Popular Coffee Drinks

Estimated calorie content in some common coffee drinks:

Calories may vary based on preparation and brand.

As you can see, black coffee is virtually calorie-free, while the fancier drinks can quickly become dessert in a cup.

What Adds Calories to Coffee?

1. Milk and Cream

Milk is the most common calorie contributor. Here’s a quick calorie comparison for 2 tablespoons (1 oz):

• Whole milk: 19 calories
• 2% milk: 15 calories
• Skim milk: 10 calories.
• Half & half: 40 calories
• Heavy cream: 100+ calories

2. Sugar and Syrups

One teaspoon of sugar has about 16 calories. Flavored syrups and sweetened creamers can pack much more—up to 50 calories per pump depending on the brand.

3. Whipped Cream

Two tablespoons of whipped cream add about 50 calories and 5 grams of fat.

Is Black Coffee the Healthiest Option?

In the context of watching calories, yes. Black coffee is not only low in calories, but also rich in antioxidants, including chlorogenic acid, which has been linked to reduced inflammation and improved heart health.

Additionally, Organic, Fairtrade black coffee tends to have fewer toxins and is produced without synthetic pesticides, making it a cleaner choice for your body and the planet. Yay!

Does Coffee Help Burn Calories?

Interestingly, coffee may help you burn calories—thanks to its caffeine content. Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system and can increase your resting metabolic rate (RMR), meaning your body burns more energy at rest. Even during sleep your body is burning calories, including your brain!

Studies show caffeine can boost metabolism by 3–11% and may enhance fat-burning by up to 29% in lean individuals.

But don’t rely on it as a magic bullet—excessive caffeine can cause jitteriness, insomnia, and increased heart rate. Remember, caffeine tolerance can be highly individual and includes consideration of individual medical history as well.

Coffee and Intermittent Fasting: Does It Break a Fast?

This is a common question for those practicing intermittent fasting (IF). Because black coffee contains fewer than 5 calories, most experts agree it does not break a fast and can even enhance its benefits by:

• Reducing appetite
• Increasing fat oxidation
• Supporting mental clarity

However, once you add cream or sugar, it technically ends your fast.

Why Choose Organic, Fairtrade Coffee?

When choosing what goes in your mug, quality (not solely calories) of your coffee should be a consideration. Here’s why choosing Organic, Fairtrade coffee is better:

1. Fewer Chemicals

Conventional coffee is one of the most heavily sprayed crops in the world. Organic coffee avoids synthetic fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides, reducing your exposure to harmful residues.

2. Sustainable Farming

Fairtrade ensures farmers receive fair wages and work under ethical conditions. It also promotes eco-friendly farming practices that protect biodiversity and soil health.

3. Better Taste and Quality

Organic coffee beans are often handpicked and roasted in small batches—resulting in a fresher, more flavorful cup.

How to Enjoy Low-Calorie Coffee Without Sacrificing Taste

Here are a few tips for keeping your coffee low-calorie and delicious:

Opt for Well Roasted Coffee

We don't add any artificial flavors to our coffee; all our coffee flavors come from both the origin of the bean as well as thorough attention to the roasting process to maximize the flavor of each batch.

Choose Black or Cold Brew Coffee

Both are low in calories and high in antioxidants. Cold brew is also less acidic, which may be easier on the stomach.

Use Natural Sweeteners

Try stevia, monk fruit, or a dash of cinnamon instead of sugar.

Try Plant-Based Milks

Unsweetened almond, oat, or coconut milk can add creaminess with fewer calories. Always check the labels—some brands add sugar.

Add Flavor with Spices

Cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, or unsweetened cocoa powder can add flavor without calories. However, we have enough confidence in our roasting that we think you won’t need to add any flavors to it!

Does Decaf Coffee Have Calories?

Yes, decaf coffee also has calories, but just like regular black coffee, it’s minimal—1 to 5 calories per cup.

The decaffeination process does not significantly change the calorie content. However, many people drink decaf with added milk or sugar in the evening, which does increase the calorie load. As an added benefit, our beans utilize the Swiss Water and Mountain Process, not chemicals, for an even healthier decaf option.

Calories in Coffee vs. Quality of Coffee: Why It Matters 

Focusing only on calories can sometimes cause us to overlook quality. Drinking low-calorie coffee doesn't have to mean drinking bland or chemical-laden brews.

By choosing Organic, Fairtrade coffee, you're not only getting a naturally low-calorie beverage—you’re also supporting:

• Healthier farming systems
• Safer working conditions
• A cleaner cup of coffee

Key Takeaways: Calories in Coffee at a Glance

• Black coffee: 1–5 calories per 8 oz
• Calories increase with milk, sugar, syrups, and whipped cream.
• Fancy drinks like mochas and frappes can contain 300+ calories.
• Coffee may support weight loss due to its metabolism-boosting effects.
• Organic, Fairtrade coffee is a healthier, more ethical choice.
• Stick to black or lightly dressed coffee to keep calories in check.

Final Sips on Calories in Coffee

So, does coffee have calories? Yes, but it depends on what you put in it. On its own, coffee is a low-calorie, antioxidant-rich beverage that fits well into most healthy lifestyles.

By choosing Organic, Fairtrade coffee, you’re doing more than just cutting calories—you’re making a choice that supports farmers, the environment, and your health.

At Philly Fairtrade, we believe that every sip should nourish your body and align with your values. That’s why we roast only small-batch, Organic, Fairtrade coffee designed to delight your taste buds without compromise.

It's a good day to have a good day!