I absolutely love starting my morning with a cup of coffee. It helps to wake me up and prepare me for the day ahead. One of my go-to coffee choices is Starbucks’ Blonde Roast. It’s smooth, flavorful, and always hits the spot. But have you ever wondered how many calories are in this delicious beverage? In this article, I will provide you with a detailed breakdown of the calories in Starbucks Blonde Roast coffee.
The Basics of Starbucks Blonde Roast Coffee
Starbucks Blonde Roast coffee is a light-bodied and mellow blend that is perfect for those who prefer a smoother and less intense cup of coffee. It is made from 100% Arabica beans, which are known for their quality and distinct flavors. The beans used in this blend are sourced from Latin America and are roasted to a blonde color, hence the name Blonde Roast.
Calories in a Cup of Starbucks Blonde Roast Coffee
When it comes to counting calories, many of us are conscious of what we consume. So, how many calories are in a cup of Starbucks Blonde Roast coffee? The answer depends on the size of the cup and the additional ingredients you choose to add.
A standard 8-ounce cup of black Starbucks Blonde Roast coffee contains just 5 calories. That’s right, only 5 calories! This makes it an excellent choice if you’re watching your caloric intake or simply want a low-calorie beverage option.
Calories in Common Additions
While a plain cup of Starbucks Blonde Roast coffee is wonderfully low in calories, many of us enjoy adding a little something extra to enhance the flavor. Let’s explore the calories you might consume if you choose to add some common ingredients to your coffee.
1. Cream and Sugar: Adding cream and sugar to your coffee can make it creamier and sweeter. However, it also adds more calories. One tablespoon of half-and-half cream adds 20 calories, while a teaspoon of sugar adds 16 calories. So, if you add both cream and sugar to your cup of Starbucks Blonde Roast, you’ll be consuming an additional 36 calories.
2. Flavored Syrups: Starbucks offers a wide range of flavored syrups that can take your coffee to the next level. However, keep in mind that these syrups are usually high in sugar and calories. On average, one pump of flavored syrup contains around 20 calories. So, if you add a couple of pumps to your Blonde Roast coffee, you’ll be adding 40 or more calories to your beverage.
3. Whipped Cream: Who can resist a dollop of whipped cream on top of their coffee? While it certainly adds a touch of indulgence, it also adds calories. One tablespoon of whipped cream contains approximately 50 calories. So, if you’re watching your waistline, it’s best to skip the whipped cream topping.
4. Milk Alternatives: If you prefer to use milk alternatives like almond milk or soy milk, it’s important to note that they also contribute calories. A cup of almond milk, for example, contains around 30-40 calories, depending on the brand. So, if you choose to substitute regular milk with a milk alternative, make sure to account for the calories.
Calories in Starbucks Blonde Roast Specialty Drinks
In addition to the plain Blonde Roast coffee, Starbucks offers a variety of specialty drinks made with this blend. These drinks often contain additional ingredients and sweeteners, which can significantly increase the calorie content. Let’s take a look at a few of these popular drinks and their approximate calorie counts:
1. Blonde Vanilla Latte: A Tall (12 fl oz) Blonde Vanilla Latte made with 2% milk contains around 190 calories. If you opt for a Grande (16 fl oz) or Venti (20 fl oz) size, the calorie content will be higher.
2. Blonde Cappuccino: A Tall (12 fl oz) Blonde Cappuccino made with 2% milk contains approximately 80 calories. The calorie count may vary depending on the milk used and any additional toppings or flavorings.
3. Blonde Flat White: A Tall (12 fl oz) Blonde Flat White made with 2% milk has about 170 calories. The Flat White is a velvety and smooth coffee beverage that pairs well with the Blonde Roast coffee.
Remember, these calorie counts are approximate and may vary depending on the ingredients used and any customizations you make to your drink.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a black cup of Starbucks Blonde Roast coffee contains only 5 calories. However, if you choose to add cream, sugar, flavored syrups, or whipped cream, the calorie content can increase significantly. Specialty drinks made with Blonde Roast coffee, like the Blonde Vanilla Latte or Blonde Flat White, also contain a higher number of calories due to additional ingredients and sweeteners. If you’re watching your caloric intake, it’s best to consume your Starbucks Blonde Roast coffee plain or with minimal additions. It’s a great way to enjoy a delicious cup of coffee while keeping your calorie count in check.