How to Order a Starbucks Skinny Vanilla Latte (& Copycat Recipe)

Last Updated on February 17, 2023 by brewthatcoffee

Let’s face it, nothing beats the joy of indulging in a life-affirming Starbucks skinny vanilla latte, especially when you need a little caffeine kick in the morning! Although, it’s only natural to wonder how “skinny” they genuinely are and how they differ from regular versions.

Skinny vanilla latte Starbucks beverages are made with espresso, nonfat dairy milk, and sugar-free vanilla syrup. They don’t contain calorific whole milk and sugary vanilla syrup like regular lattes. And the taste of espresso and vanilla is also more pronounced as skinny lattes are fat-free.

While there’s no doubt that skinny vanilla lattes contain far fewer calories compared to other sugary versions, it’s essential to know their nutritional contents. So, read on if you want to see why they are not that “skinny,” or make your Starbucks replica at home!

What’s In A Starbucks Skinny Vanilla Latte

A Starbucks Skinny Vanilla Late is a delicious combination of a double espresso, steamed nonfat dairy milk, and sugar-free vanilla syrup.

So, why is it called a “skinny” vanilla latte, you may ask?  

Well, mainly because the word skinny is so much easier to remember if you are looking for a healthier version of a special calorific treat. And let’s be honest – it’s a great marketing tool!

The Difference Between A Vanilla Vs Skinny Vanilla Latte

A regular Starbucks vanilla latte is made with espresso, sugar-laden vanilla syrup, and steamed whole milk. 

The skinny version has the same ingredients as the regular version. But whole milk is substituted with nonfat dairy milk, and the vanilla syrup is a sugar-free version.

Although, a skinny option does not mean that your vanilla latter is a calorie or sugar-free coffee.

Nonfat dairy milk contains lactose sugar. And plant-based milk varieties like soy or oat milk may contain fruit sugar, sucrose, or glucose.

Another essential factor to consider is that artificial sweeteners have been linked to weight gain. Thus, sugar-free skinny lattes should ideally be enjoyed in moderation. 

Starbucks Skinny Vanilla Latte Nutrition & Price

Even though a skinny vanilla latte is a far better option than regular versions, it’s always good to know its nutritional value and how much your daily “coffee fix” will cost.

So, without further ado, here’s everything you need to know.

Calories, Sugar, And Caffeine Size Chart

The following nutritional comparison between the various Starbucks skinny vanilla latte cup sizes may vary. It depends marginally on which online food and beverage calculator you use.

However, it’s a practical nutritional guide to consider when you want to estimate your average daily calorie intake before placing your next order.

Skinny Vanilla Latte Sizes	Calories	Sugar	Caffeine	Carbs	Protein
Short Skinny Vanilla Latte	60	8 g	75 mg	9.5 g	6 g
Tall Skinny Vanilla Latte	90	12g	75 mg	14.2 g	9g
Grande Skinny Vanilla Latte	120	16 g	150mg	19 g	12 g
Venti Skinny Vanilla Latte	150	20 g	150mg	12.7 g	15 g

Average Price Of A Skinny Vanilla Latte

Even though prices do tend to vary, the average price for a skinny vanilla latte range between $3.45 and $4.65 for a Venti-sized coffee.

Although, if you are on a tight budget, you can always make a delicious version at home. And as luck would have it, there’s an easy (and uber-tasty) recipe further on in this article.                   

What the Starbucks Skinny Vanilla Latte Tastes Like

Skinny vanilla lattes have a robust espresso taste which is far more intense compared with regular versions. They lack whole-milk fat, and the foamed nonfat milk dissolves much faster to amplify the rich coffee taste.

While skinny vanilla lattes are less sweet than the standard versions with sugary vanilla syrup, it’s still relatively sweet.

And the divine combination of the velvety and smooth taste of comforting vanilla and the strong kick of espresso is a delicious combo to kick off your day.

How To Order It At Starbucks

Do you find the Starbucks menus intimidating or too complicated? You’re not alone – they can be tricky at first!

Even though there are so many ordering platforms like the Starbucks® Rewards app, including Uber Eats, and DoorDash, they all need the same information.

So, here is a quick run-down on the best way to order your next latte:

Specify Your Coffee’s Temperature

The barista will need to know whether you want an iced cup or a hot coffee so they can use the correct type of cup to make your favorite beverage.

Select A Cup Size

Starbucks, unlike most traditional coffee shops, doesn’t serve small, medium, or large-sized beverages, so you will need to confirm which of the following cup sizes you want:

• Short size: 8 ounces
• Tall size: 12 ounces
• Grande size: 16 ounces
• Venti size: 20 ounces (for hot lattes)
• Venti size: 24 ounces (with additional space for ice blocks in cold lattes.)

Add A Tasty Sweet Flavor

Now it’s time to add a little sweetness with flavored syrups like vanilla, chestnut praline, hazelnut, or caramel. Although, you will need to specify how many syrups pumps the barista needs to add.

Choose Your Milk

Then choose what type of milk you would prefer. Dairy-based milk options range between nonfat (for skinny versions), 1% fat, or half-and-half to heavy cream. Or you can select plant-based milk like coconut, soy, or almond milk.

Make It Special

Then customize your latte by substituting whole milk, and regular vanilla syrup, for a skinny version with nonfat milk and sugar-free syrup. Or make it your own by asking for a cold latte with a limited or a lot of ice cubes, or request additional foam if you prefer a hot beverage.

Homemade Starbucks Skinny Vanilla Latte Recipe

Why stand in long queues if you can make your own delicious skinny vanilla latte – in a matter of minutes and save some bucks in the long run before your morning commute?

All you need are four ingredients and a blender, and that’s it!

Even though this (yummy) recipe is made with nonfat dairy milk, you can substitute it with a vegan blend of coconut and almond milk. You can also add some extra sweetness with a natural, zero-calorie sweetener.

Alternatively, add some nonfat whipping cream for an extra bit of delicious creamy indulgence.

Ingredients

• 1 cup freshly brewed espresso.
• 4 tablespoons nonfat dairy or vegan milk
• 1-2 tablespoons vanilla syrup (sugar-free)
• 1 or 2 drops natural sweetener (an optional extra)

Equipment

You only need a blender for this easy recipe.

Instructions

1. Carefully pour the cooled and freshly brewed cup of espresso into your blender.
2. Add your milk of choice, including the (zero-calorie) vanilla syrup, and blend until the latte reaches a foamy consistency.
3. Taste the latte and add additional drops of your favorite natural sweetener if it is needed.
4. Then pour your blend into your favorite cup and microwave it for a few seconds if you prefer it hot. Or, add a few ice cubes on a hot day.

Recipe Notes

• Blend your latte for longer if you prefer more foam.
• Experiment with other sugar-free syrups like hazelnut, English toffee, almond, gingerbread, or caramel flavors.

Starbucks Skinny Vanilla Latte FAQs

Conclusion

The iconic Starbucks skinny vanilla latte is a game-changer if you are trying to lead a healthier lifestyle as they contain far less fat, and sugar compared with regular versions.

Although, “skinny” lattes are not entirely sugar, and calorie-free. So, enjoy your well-deserved treat as part of a well-balanced diet.

Resources

https://globalassets.starbucks.com/assets/94fbcc2ab1e24359850fa1870fc988bc.pdf

https://www.starbucks.com/ways-to-order/

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/sugar-in-milk