
Café con Leche is a beloved breakfast staple from Spain and Latin America, consisting of strong brewed coffee blended with an equal part of hot, steamed milk. It's typically made with espresso or a robust drip coffee and whole milk, creating a rich and comforting beverage. The drink is a cornerstone of morning routines across many Spanish-speaking cultures.
This drink is primarily a source of quick energy from carbohydrates (lactose in milk and any added sugar), with a moderate amount of protein and fat from the milk. It provides calcium and B vitamins, with a typical serving (around 8-10 oz) ranging from 80 to 150 calories depending on milk type and sweetness.
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbs | 10 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 10 g |
| Sodium | 100 mg |
| Calcium | 200 mg |
| Potassium | 350 mg |
| Phosphorus | 150 mg |
| Vitamin D | 2.5 mcg |
| Vitamin B12 | 1.0 mcg |
| Riboflavin (B2) | 0.3 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 0.5 mg |
| Magnesium | 25 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
Culturally, Café con Leche is less a mere drink and more a social ritual, often savored slowly with toast or pastries to start the day. Nutritionally, the combination of caffeine and milk protein can provide a more sustained energy boost compared to black coffee alone.