Caffè Latte: The Timeless Espresso Classic

• Short 8 fl oz
• Tall 12 fl oz
• Grande 16 fl oz
• Venti 20 fl oz

$3.65 -100 Calories

$4.25 – 150 Calories

$4.95 – 190 Calories

$5.45 – 250 Calories

The Starbucks Caffè Latte is the quintessential espresso classic — rich Signature Espresso Roast pulled as fresh shots, blended with smooth steamed 2% milk, and topped with a light layer of foam. Available in Short through Venti, the Caffè Latte is the most ordered espresso drink at Starbucks, beloved for its perfectly balanced, creamy taste that works beautifully on its own or as the canvas for endless customizations in 2026.

Starbucks Caffè Latte Quick Facts (2026)

What Is a Starbucks Caffè Latte?

A Starbucks Caffè Latte is the foundation of the entire espresso menu. It is made by pulling shots of Signature Espresso Roast and combining them with a generous amount of steamed milk, finished with a thin layer of milk foam on top. The result is a smooth, creamy, and mellow drink where the espresso provides depth and warmth while the milk delivers a velvety, comforting body.

The word “latte” means “milk” in Italian, and that is exactly what defines this drink — it is milk-forward. About 75% of the cup is steamed milk, making it the creamiest of the three core espresso drinks (Latte, Cappuccino, and Flat White). The Caffè Latte is the most popular espresso drink at Starbucks worldwide and serves as the base recipe for virtually every flavored latte on the menu — from the Pumpkin Spice Latte to the Cinnamon Dolce Latte.

Starbucks Caffè Latte Price 2026 (All Sizes)

Note: Prices are estimated averages for U.S. locations in 2026. The Iced Caffè Latte starts at Tall size. Airport and licensed locations charge a premium of $0.50 to $1.00. The Caffè Latte is a mid-range espresso drink — cheaper than flavored lattes but more expensive than an Americano or Caffè Misto.

What Affects Starbucks Latte Prices?

Geographic location drives the biggest price variation — urban stores in New York, San Francisco, and Seattle charge $0.30 to $0.75 more than suburban locations. Store type matters too: airport, hotel, and licensed stores add a premium. Customizations increase the price: oat milk adds $0.80, an extra espresso shot costs $0.80, and flavored syrups cost $0.70 per flavor. The base Caffè Latte with no modifications is the most affordable milk-heavy espresso drink.

Starbucks Caffè Latte Calories by Size

Because the Caffè Latte is mostly steamed milk, it is higher in calories than a Cappuccino (140 cal grande) or Americano (15 cal). For a lower-calorie version, almond milk drops a grande to just 100 calories — nearly half of the standard 2% milk recipe. Nonfat milk at 130 calories is also a solid middle ground that keeps the creamy texture.

Starbucks Caffè Latte Nutrition Facts (Grande, 2% Milk)

The 17 grams of sugar in a standard grande come entirely from natural lactose in 2% milk — there is no added sugar in a plain Caffè Latte. The protein content is notably high at 13 grams, making it one of the better protein sources on the menu without needing a protein add-on. If you need to cut sugar, switching to almond milk drops the sugar to about 8 grams per grande.

Starbucks Caffè Latte Caffeine Content

Like the Cappuccino, the Latte has the same shot count: 1 for Short/Tall and 2 for Grande/Venti. This means upgrading from Tall to Grande doubles your caffeine (75 mg to 150 mg), but going from Grande to Venti only adds more milk — not more espresso. For more caffeine, add an extra shot ($0.80) or switch to Blonde Espresso (~85 mg per shot). A grande Blonde Latte delivers about 170 mg of caffeine.

Starbucks Caffè Latte Ingredients

Core Ingredients

• Espresso: Starbucks Signature Espresso Roast — dark, rich, caramelly Latin American and Asia-Pacific bean blend
• Steamed Milk (2% by default): Heated and textured to create a smooth, velvety body with a thin layer of microfoam on top

Like the Cappuccino, the Caffè Latte uses just two ingredients. The difference is in the ratio: the Latte uses significantly more milk and much less foam, creating a smoother, creamier drink rather than a light, airy one.

Starbucks Caffè Latte Allergen Information

The standard Caffè Latte contains milk as the only allergen. It is free of nuts, soy, gluten, and eggs. Switching to oat milk, almond milk, soy milk, or coconut milk removes the dairy allergen. Adding flavored syrups does not introduce additional allergens at Starbucks, but always check with your barista if you have severe allergies.

Starbucks Caffè Latte Flavor Profile and Taste Review

The Caffè Latte is the smoothest and most approachable espresso drink at Starbucks. The dominant taste is warm, sweet milk with the espresso providing a rich undercurrent of caramel and roasted coffee notes. Unlike the Cappuccino, where the espresso flavor is front and center, the Latte wraps the espresso in a blanket of steamed milk, creating a harmonious, balanced drink that is never too bitter and never too bland.

Who Will Love the Caffè Latte

• Everyday coffee drinkers who want a reliable, crowd-pleasing drink
• People who enjoy creamy, milky coffee with gentle espresso flavor
• Customers who like to customize — the latte is the perfect base for syrups and toppings
• First-time Starbucks visitors looking for a safe, universally liked order

Who Might Not Like It

• Espresso purists who want bold, intense coffee flavor (try a Cappuccino or Americano instead)
• Calorie-conscious drinkers who find 190 calories too high (choose nonfat or almond milk)
• Customers who prefer cold drinks (try the Iced Caffè Latte)

Is Starbucks Caffè Latte Worth It in 2026? Price, Value, and Taste Review

At $4.95 for a grande, the Caffè Latte sits in the mid-range of Starbucks pricing. It costs less than most flavored lattes ($5.45+) and specialty drinks ($5.95+), but more than an Americano ($4.25) or Misto ($4.25). The value proposition is strong: you get a perfectly balanced, endlessly customizable espresso drink that tastes great every single time.

The Starbucks Rewards program makes it better — a free Latte at 150 Stars. And since the plain Latte requires no paid customizations to taste great, you avoid the $0.70 to $1.60 in add-on charges that come with most specialty drinks. For a daily coffee habit, the Caffè Latte is the most reliable and fairly priced espresso option.

Starbucks Caffè Latte vs Cappuccino vs Flat White (Which One Should You Choose?)

Latte vs Cappuccino at Starbucks

The Latte uses mostly steamed milk with a thin foam layer, while the Cappuccino uses equal parts espresso, milk, and thick foam. The Latte is smoother and creamier; the Cappuccino is lighter, airier, and more espresso-forward. If you want to taste the milk, choose the Latte. If you want to taste the espresso, choose the Cappuccino.

Latte vs Flat White at Starbucks

The Flat White uses ristretto shots (shorter, more concentrated) and whole milk steamed to a silky micro-foam, while the Latte uses regular espresso and 2% milk with a thinner foam. The Flat White is denser, richer, and more intense. The Latte is lighter, more voluminous, and more approachable. The Flat White costs $0.30 more per grande.

How to Order a Starbucks Caffè Latte (2026)

Standard In-Store Order

Say: “I’d like a [size] Caffè Latte.” You can add modifications like “with oat milk,” “with an extra shot,” or “with vanilla syrup.” For iced, say: “I’d like a [size] Iced Latte.” The barista knows the standard recipe — just specify your preferred milk and any flavor additions.

Mobile App Ordering Tips

Open the Starbucks app, search “Caffè Latte” or “Iced Caffè Latte,” select your size, and customize. The app provides full control over milk type, espresso type, syrups, toppings, and temperature. Mobile orders earn Stars and skip the in-store queue.

Best Starbucks Caffè Latte Customizations (Popular Orders in 2026)

Vanilla Latte (The Classic Upgrade)

Add 3 pumps of vanilla syrup to a grande for a smooth, sweet, and aromatic latte. This is the most popular latte customization at Starbucks and adds about 60 calories. The vanilla note perfectly complements the espresso’s caramel undertones.

Oat Milk Latte (Best Dairy-Free)

Oat milk’s naturally sweet, creamy body makes it the best alternative milk for a latte. It steams beautifully, adds subtle oat richness, and many customers prefer it to 2% milk. The calorie count stays the same (190 cal grande) but the flavor profile becomes slightly more complex.

Blonde Vanilla Latte (Extra Smooth)

Switch to Blonde Espresso (free) and add vanilla syrup for the Starbucks Blonde Vanilla Latte — a lighter, smoother, subtly sweet version with slightly more caffeine. This is one of the most popular customizations among customers who find Signature Espresso too dark.

Honey Oat Milk Latte (Trendy and Natural)

Combine oat milk with 2 pumps of honey blend syrup for a naturally sweet, creamy, and slightly floral latte. This combination has become a social media favorite and works beautifully both hot and iced.

Extra Shot Latte (Bolder Flavor)

Add an extra espresso shot ($0.80) to boost the coffee flavor and caffeine to 225 mg. This is perfect for customers who love the creamy latte texture but want a stronger espresso presence. A grande with 3 shots delivers the same caffeine as an Americano.

Is Starbucks Caffè Latte Healthy?

Pros

• No added sugar in the standard recipe (17g is all natural lactose)
• 13 grams of protein from milk — one of the highest protein drinks on the menu
• Good source of calcium from milk
• 150 mg caffeine for a solid energy boost
• Easily customizable to be lower calorie (almond milk = 100 cal grande)

Cons

• 190 calories for a grande with 2% milk — moderate calorie count
• 4.5g saturated fat from whole milk
• Contains dairy by default

Ways to Make It Healthier

• Order with almond milk (drops to 100 calories per grande)
• Choose nonfat milk (130 cal grande, same protein)
• Order a Short for a 60-calorie nonfat latte with the same espresso quality
• Use sugar-free vanilla syrup for sweetness without added sugar
• Skip whipped cream and flavored drizzles on customized versions

Best Food Pairings with Starbucks Caffè Latte

The Caffè Latte’s creamy, balanced flavor makes it the most versatile food-pairing drink on the menu. For breakfast, pair it with a Bacon, Sausage & Egg Wrap or Rolled & Steel-Cut Oatmeal. For a mid-morning treat, a Butter Croissant or Blueberry Muffin from the Bakery Menu is a classic match. The Latte’s mild sweetness and creamy body complement both savory and sweet foods equally well, making it the ultimate all-purpose Starbucks drink.

How to Make a Starbucks Caffè Latte at Home

DIY Caffè Latte Recipe

1. Pull 2 shots of espresso (or brew 3 ounces of very strong coffee using a Moka pot or AeroPress)
2. Heat 10 ounces of 2% milk in a saucepan until steaming (around 150°F)
3. Froth the milk using a steam wand, French press plunger, or handheld frother until smooth with a thin layer of microfoam (not thick like a cappuccino)
4. Pour the espresso into a large mug
5. Pour the steamed milk over the espresso, holding back the foam slightly with a spoon
6. Top with a thin layer of foam
7. Optional: add vanilla syrup, honey, or cinnamon to customize

The key to a great homemade latte is the milk texture — it should be smooth and velvety, not bubbly or frothy. Heat the milk until it is steaming but not boiling, then froth gently. A homemade latte costs roughly $0.50 per cup compared to $4.95 at Starbucks.

Customer Favorites and Popular Feedback

The Caffè Latte is the most-ordered espresso drink at Starbucks for good reason: it is consistently delicious, endlessly customizable, and universally appealing. Regulars praise its smooth, balanced flavor and the fact that it works as both a plain drink and a base for creative customizations. The most common criticism is that some find the standard recipe too milky — if you want more espresso presence, add an extra shot or order a Flat White instead. Baristas report that about 60% of all latte orders include at least one customization.

How to Save Money on Starbucks Caffè Latte

• Join Starbucks Rewards: Earn Stars and redeem a free Latte at 150 Stars
• Order a Short: A Short Latte ($3.65) has the same espresso quality as a Tall
• Order a Caffè Misto instead: Similar creaminess for $0.70 less ($4.25 vs $4.95 grande)
• Happy Hour BOGO: Watch for buy-one-get-one promotions
• Bring your own cup: Save $0.10 per drink
• Make it at home: A DIY latte costs about $0.50 per cup

Frequently Asked Questions About Starbucks Caffè Latte

How much is a Starbucks Latte in 2026?

A Short costs $3.65, a Tall costs $4.25, a Grande costs $4.95, and a Venti costs $5.45 at most U.S. Starbucks locations in 2026. Iced versions are priced the same starting at Tall.

How many calories are in a Starbucks Latte?

A grande Latte with 2% milk has 190 calories. A Short has 100, a Tall has 150, and a Venti has 250. Almond milk drops a grande to 100 calories.

What is the difference between a Latte and a Cappuccino?

A Latte has mostly steamed milk with a thin foam layer, making it smooth and creamy. A Cappuccino has equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and thick foam, making it lighter and more coffee-forward. The Latte has more calories (190 vs 140 grande) because it uses more milk.

Can you get an iced Latte at Starbucks?

Yes, the Iced Caffè Latte is a permanent menu item available in Tall, Grande, and Venti. It uses the same espresso poured over ice with cold milk instead of steamed milk.

Is a Starbucks Latte sweet?

The standard Caffè Latte has no added sweeteners, but the steamed milk provides a naturally sweet, creamy taste. Most people find it pleasant without sugar. Add vanilla or caramel syrup if you prefer a sweeter drink.

What milk options are available for a Starbucks Latte?

Starbucks offers 2% milk (default), whole milk, nonfat milk, oat milk, almond milk, soy milk, and coconut milk. Each creates a different flavor and calorie profile. Oat milk is the most popular alternative.

How much caffeine is in a Starbucks Latte?

A Short and Tall both have 75 mg (1 shot), while a Grande and Venti both have 150 mg (2 shots). Add an extra shot for $0.80 to increase caffeine by 75 mg.

Is the Caffè Latte available all year?

Yes, the Caffè Latte is a permanent, year-round menu item at all U.S. Starbucks locations. Seasonal variations like the Pumpkin Spice Latte are limited-time, but the classic Caffè Latte is always available.

Final Verdict: Is the Starbucks Caffè Latte Worth It?

The Starbucks Caffè Latte is the gold standard of espresso drinks in 2026. At $4.95 for a grande with 190 calories, 13g protein, and zero added sugar, it delivers a perfectly smooth, creamy, and balanced coffee experience that works beautifully plain or customized. It is the most versatile drink on the entire menu — equal parts reliable daily driver and blank canvas for creative orders. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a lifelong regular, the Caffè Latte is the safest, most satisfying espresso order at Starbucks. Explore the Iced Caffè Latte for the cold version, or browse the full Hot Coffee Menu for more options.