The iconic fall drink is back, but What is the calorie count for an iced pumpkin spice latte?
The answer may surprise you. A grande (16-ounce) iced pumpkin spice latte from Starbucks made with whole milk and 2 pumps of syrup contains 300 calories.
That’s more calories than a slice of pizza! If you’re watching your calories, there are a few things you can do to reduce the calorie content of your iced pumpkin spice latte. This post will break down the caloric content of the trending iced pumpkin, what it is, homemade alternatives, and factors that may affect its caloric content. Read on!!
What is an Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte?
A coffee beverage known as the iced pumpkin spice latte includes espresso, milk, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin spice syrup in its preparation. Usually, it’s served chilled and garnished with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin spice. An iced pumpkin spice latte can vary in calories depending on the size and specific ingredients used, but I can provide you with a general estimate.
The pumpkin spice latte is a commonly enjoyed autumn beverage frequently linked to Starbucks. However, it can be made at home or ordered from other coffee shops.
Factors that affect the calorie content of an iced pumpkin spice latte
- The size of the drink: If the sugar is much or bigger in the drink, the more calories it will have. A grande (16-ounce) iced pumpkin spice latte from Starbucks has about 300 calories, while a venti (24-ounce) has about 360 calories.
- The amount of sugar added: Sugar is another major source of calories in an iced pumpkin spice latte. Most coffee shops offer a variety of syrups and flavorings, and some of these are higher in sugar than others. A grande iced pumpkin spice latte made with 2 pumps of syrup has about 300 calories, while the same drink made with 4 pumps of syrup has about 360 calories.
- The type of milk used: Milk is a major source of calories in an iced pumpkin spice latte. Whole milk has the most calories, followed by 2% milk, 1% milk, and nonfat milk. A grande iced pumpkin spice latte made with whole milk has about 300 calories, while the same drink made with nonfat milk has about 240 calories.
- Other customizations: Other customizations, such as adding whipped cream or sprinkles, can also add calories to an iced pumpkin spice latte. A grande iced pumpkin spice latte with whipped cream and sprinkles has about 360 calories.
Read more: 10 Healthy Dinners to Help You Lose Weight
How Many Calories Are in an Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte?
The calorie content of an iced pumpkin spice latte’s composition may fluctuate depending on the drink’s size, the type of milk used, and the amount of sugar added. A grande (16-ounce) iced pumpkin spice latte from Starbucks made with whole milk and 2 pumps of syrup contains 300 calories.
Starbucks:
- Tall (12 ounces): 280 calories
- Grande (16 ounces): 300 calories
- Venti (24 ounces): 360 calories
Dunkin’ Donuts:
- Small (16 ounces): 310 calories
- Medium (24 ounces): 380 calories
- Large (32 ounces): 450 calories
McDonald’s:
- Small (12 ounces): 170 calories
- Medium (16 ounces): 210 calories
- Large (20 ounces): 240 calories
Tips for Ordering a Lower-Calorie Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte
- Ask for a smaller size. A grande (16-ounce) iced pumpkin spice latte from Starbucks has about 300 calories, while a tall (12-ounce) has about 280 calories.
- Go easy on the sugar. Ask for 1 pump of syrup instead of 2 or 3. Or, ask for the syrup to be omitted altogether or be made with sugar-free syrup.
- Choose nonfat or almond milk. Whole milk has the most calories, followed by 2% milk, 1% milk, and nonfat milk. A grande iced pumpkin spice latte made with nonfat milk has about 240 calories, while the same drink made with whole milk has about 300 calories. You can also choose to add unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk.
- Go easy on the sugar. Ask for 1 pump of syrup instead of 2 or 3. Or, ask for the syrup to be omitted altogether. You can also be asked that the drink be made with a sugar-free sweetener, such as stevia or monk fruit.
- Avoid adding whipped cream or sprinkles. Whipped cream and sprinkles are high in calories and fat.
- You can choose to add a splash of cinnamon or pumpkin spice for flavor without the added calories.
Alternatives to the iced pumpkin spice latte
You can also make your iced pumpkin spice latte at home. This way, you can control the ingredients and the amount of calories in your drink.
If you’re craving it this fall, there are a few things you can do to make it a little bit healthier.
But be warned: even the healthiest iced pumpkin spice latte is still a treat! You can try this healthier alternative to the iced pumpkin spice latte, you could try:
Homemade Iced Coffee With Pumpkin Spice Syrup
Ingredients:
- 1 cup brewed coffee
- 1/2 cup milk of your choice
- 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Sweetener to taste (optional)
Instructions:
- Blend all the ingredients in a blender until they reach a smooth consistency.
- Pour over ice and enjoy.
This recipe makes a 12-ounce drink that has about 150 calories. You can adjust the ingredients and the amount of sweetener to fit your preferences.
Pumpkin Spice Latte With Protein Powder
Ingredients:
- 1 cup brewed coffee
- 1/2 cup milk of your choice
- 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 scoop protein powder
- Sweetener to taste (optional)
Instructions:
- Mix all the ingredients in a blender until they reach a smooth consistency.
- Pour over ice and enjoy.
This recipe makes a 12-ounce drink that has about 200 calories. You can adjust the ingredients and the amount of sweetener to fit your preferences.
Here are some additional tips for making a pumpkin spice latte with protein powder:
- Use plant-based milk to reduce the calorie and saturated fat content.
- Use a sugar-free protein powder to reduce the sugar content.
- If you like to go for a touch of sweetness, you can incorporate a small quantity of honey or maple syrup.
- For a lavish indulgence, garnish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin spice.
Pumpkin Spice Latte With Fruit
Ingredients:
- 1 cup brewed coffee
- 1/2 cup milk of your choice
- 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup berries, such as raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries
- 1/4 cup sliced banana
Instructions:
- Mix all the components in a blender and blend until a smooth consistency is achieved.
- Pour over ice and enjoy.
This recipe makes a 12-ounce drink that has about 180 calories. You can adjust the ingredients and the amount of sweetener to fit your preferences.
Here are some tips for making a pumpkin spice latte with fruit:
- Use frozen berries to make the drink extra cold.
- If you’d like to add sweetness, you can incorporate a touch of honey or maple syrup.
- For an indulgent delight, garnish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin spice.
The iced pumpkin spice latte is a delicious and popular fall drink, but it can be high in calories and sugar. However, there are ways to enjoy this drink without overdoing it. By following the tips in this article, you can order a lower-calorie iced pumpkin spice latte that you can enjoy guilt-free.
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