The Caramel Macchiato is one of Starbucks' most popular drinks, but its sweet, layered profile comes with a specific calorie count.
A Grande (16 oz) Hot Caramel Macchiato has 250 calories. This is the standard "default" build made with 2% milk and all its syrups and drizzles. An Iced Grande Caramel Macchiato also has 250 calories.
But this number is just the beginning. The calorie count can change dramatically based on your choice of milk, size, or a few simple ordering "hacks."
Before we get to the numbers, it's helpful to know what you're drinking. "Macchiato" means "marked" or "stained," and the drink is a "marked" latte. The calories come from four main ingredients:
This makes up the bulk of the drink and its base calories.
This is the first major source of sugar and calories, added to the bottom of the cup.
These are poured on top and add minimal calories (about 5-10).
This is the "mark" on top and the second major source of sugar and calories.
The default build for both hot and iced versions uses 2% milk. Note that the Venti Iced is significantly larger (24 oz) than the Venti Hot (20 oz), so its calorie count is higher.
| Size | Ounces | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Short | 8 oz | 120 kcal |
| Tall | 12 oz | 190 kcal |
| Grande | 16 oz | 250 kcal |
| Venti | 20 oz | 310 kcal |
| Size | Ounces | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Tall | 12 oz | 180 kcal |
| Grande | 16 oz | 250 kcal |
| Venti | 24 oz | 350 kcal |
This is the most important choice you can make. Swapping from 2% milk can save you over 100 calories or add nearly 50 more.
The table below compares a Grande (16 oz) Hot Caramel Macchiato made with different milk options.
| Milk Type | Grande (16 oz) Calories |
|---|---|
| Almond Milk(Lowest Calorie) | 180 kcal |
| Nonfat Milk (Skinny) | 180 kcal |
| Coconut Milk | 210 kcal |
| Soy Milk | 240 kcal |
| 2% Milk (Default) | 250 kcal |
| Whole Milk | 280 kcal |
| Oat Milk(Highest Calorie) | 290 kcal |
Key Takeaway: Simply asking for almond milk or nonfat milk is the easiest way to cut 70 calories from your drink.
A "Skinny Caramel Macchiato" is a low-calorie version of the classic. It's one of the most popular healthy hacks on the menu.
A Grande Skinny Caramel Macchiato has only 140-150 calories.
Here is the exact recipe to order it:
Ask for Nonfat Milk (or Almond Milk, which has similar calories).
Ask for Sugar-Free Vanilla Syrup.
That's it! You still get the espresso and the signature caramel drizzle, but this one swap saves you over 100 calories.
A Grande has 4 pumps of vanilla syrup. Asking for "2 pumps" cuts 40 calories and reduces the sweetness.
The caramel drizzle adds about 30-40 calories. Asking for "light drizzle" cuts this in half.
The Caramel Macchiato is a high-sugar, high-carb drink. Here is the full nutrition profile for a Grande Hot Caramel Macchiato with 2% milk.
250
Total Calories
7g
Fat
35g
Carbohydrates
33g
Sugar
12g
Protein
150mg
Caffeine
The 33g of sugar (from both the vanilla syrup and caramel drizzle) is the main thing to be aware of. A Skinny Macchiato drops the sugar down to about 18-20g.
A Caramel Macchiato is a 250-calorie treat, but it's incredibly easy to customize.
A Grande (Hot or Iced) is 250 calories with 2% milk.
A Grande with almond milk is 180 calories.
A Grande Skinny (nonfat milk, sugar-free vanilla) is ~140 calories.