Discover How Much Caffeine in Decaf Espresso Today!
How Much Caffeine in Decaf Espresso Shot?
💡DECAF ESPRESSO SHOT: Contains about 2 to 5 milligrams of caffeine, much less than a regular shot. The exact amount depends on bean quality, brewing method, and processing. It’s a great option for coffee lovers who enjoy bold flavor while keeping caffeine intake low, especially later in the day.
When people hear the word “decaf,” they often assume it means zero caffeine. But here’s the truth, Decaf espresso still has a little caffeine in it.
On average, a single shot contains about 2 to 5 milligrams, compared to 60 to 75 milligrams in a regular shot.
That small amount may not give you an energy kick, but it’s still worth knowing if you’re sensitive to caffeine or trying to cut back.
In this post, we’ll cover exactly how much caffeine is in decaf espresso, its calories, fat, carbs, and protein.
We’ll also talk about whether it’s keto-friendly, how to make it at home, and answer some common questions. If you enjoy espresso but want to skip the jitters, this guide will help you understand what decaf espresso really offers.

Table of Contents:
- What Is Decaf Espresso?
- Is Decaf Espresso Keto-Friendly?
- Espresso Nutrients
- How To Make a Decaf Espresso
- Related Articles
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Thoughts
What Is Decaf Espresso?

Decaf espresso is espresso made from coffee beans that have gone through a decaffeination process to remove most of their caffeine.
Unlike regular espresso, which can pack around 60 to 75 milligrams of caffeine per shot, decaf espresso usually contains only 2 to 5 milligrams.
The beans are typically treated with water, carbon dioxide, or natural solvents before roasting to extract the caffeine while retaining much of the flavor.
The result is a bold, aromatic shot that resembles regular espresso in both appearance and taste, but won’t leave you feeling jittery.
Many people choose decaf espresso if they enjoy the strong taste of coffee but want to cut back on caffeine for health, sleep, or personal reasons. It’s essentially espresso in a more relaxed form, rich in flavor, light on caffeine.
Is Decaf Espresso Keto-Friendly?

Yes, decaf espresso is completely keto-friendly. Since espresso itself is almost free of carbs, sugar, and calories, switching to decaf doesn’t change its compatibility with a ketogenic lifestyle.
A plain shot of decaf espresso contains roughly 2 calories, zero fats, zero carbs, and only trace amounts of caffeine, making it a perfect choice if you’re tracking macros.
You can enjoy it on its own for a bold, rich flavor or pair it with keto-approved add-ins like heavy cream, unsweetened almond milk, coconut milk, or sugar-free syrups for variety.
Many keto coffee lovers even use decaf shots as a base for lattes or cappuccinos without worrying about hidden carbs.
Whether you’re sensitive to caffeine or just want a late-night cup that won’t disrupt your sleep, decaf espresso fits smoothly into a keto lifestyle while keeping flavor front and center.
Espresso Nutrients

Espresso is a simple drink with a surprisingly light nutritional profile. A plain shot, whether regular or decaf, contains just a few calories, no fat, no carbs, and virtually no protein.
Its main difference lies in caffeine content, with decaf offering only trace amounts. Despite its small size, espresso still delivers antioxidants that support overall wellness without adding anything heavy to your daily intake.
How Much Caffeine Is in Decaf Espresso?
Decaf espresso isn’t completely caffeine-free, but it contains only a fraction compared to regular espresso.
A single shot of decaf typically has about 2 to 5 milligrams of caffeine, while a regular shot delivers around 60 to 75 milligrams.
This small amount is unlikely to cause jitters or disrupt sleep, making decaf espresso a practical choice for anyone who loves the flavor of coffee but wants to keep caffeine intake low.
How Many Calories Are in Decaf Espresso?

A plain shot of decaf espresso is impressively low in calories, only about 2 per serving. That means you can enjoy its bold, rich taste without worrying about adding to your daily calorie count.
The number stays the same whether you’re sipping it hot or iced. However, extras like milk, cream, flavored syrups, or sweeteners can quickly increase the calorie total, so keep it simple if you want to stay calorie-conscious.
How Much Total Fat is in Decaf Espresso?
Decaf espresso contains zero grams of fat, making it a naturally lean beverage. Since it’s brewed from coffee beans and water only, there’s no fat content in a plain shot.
This makes it an excellent option for anyone watching their fat intake or following a diet plan.
Just remember, the fat count changes once you add extras like cream, milk, or butter-based mixes, often used in specialty coffee drinks.
How Much Net Carbs are in a Decaf Espresso?

A plain shot of decaf espresso has zero net carbs, making it an ideal drink for low-carb or keto lifestyles.
Since it’s brewed only from water and ground coffee beans, there’s no sugar or starch involved. This means you can enjoy it freely without impacting your carb count.
Be mindful, though, once you add milk, flavored syrups, or sweeteners, the carb content can rise quickly depending on your choices.
How Much Protein Is in Decaf Espresso?
Decaf espresso contains no measurable protein, so it won’t contribute to your daily protein goals. Since it’s made only with water and decaffeinated coffee beans, the drink is purely about flavor and aroma, not nutrients.
If you’re looking for a protein boost, you can mix your decaf shot with unsweetened protein shakes or add collagen powder, both popular choices for coffee lovers who want extra nutrition without extra carbs or sugar.
How To Make a Decaf Espresso

Making decaf espresso is simple when you have the right beans and equipment. The key lies in choosing quality decaffeinated coffee that still carries the bold flavor you expect from espresso.
With a reliable brewing tool, you can enjoy a rich, satisfying shot anytime without the jitters of full caffeine.
It’s less about complication and more about consistency. Now that you know it’s straightforward, let’s walk through the steps to prepare decaf espresso at home.
Ingredients:
- Decaf espresso beans
Instructions:
- Grind the Beans: Start with fresh, decaf espresso beans and grind them finely, ensuring the texture is consistent. A fine grind helps create the smooth, bold flavor espresso is known for.
- Prep the Machine: Place about 7–9 grams of ground decaf coffee into your machine’s portafilter. Tap it down firmly to create an even surface for proper extraction.
- Pull the Shot: Run hot water at around 200°F through the tamped grounds under high pressure. In 25–30 seconds, you’ll enjoy a rich, golden-brown decaf espresso shot.
Related Articles
Looking for more coffee and keto-friendly drink ideas? These related articles will guide you through flavorful options, smart swaps, and helpful tips to enjoy every sip.
- How Much Caffeine in Espresso: Your Morning Kickstarter!
- Is Organic Coffee Better Than Regular? Here’s the Truth
- Does Coffee Break a Fast? What You Need to Know
- Keto Coffee Drinks: 15 Delicious Low-Carb Options to Try!
- Keto Coffee Recipe: Boost Your Energy and Focus
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Decaf Espresso Really Have No Caffeine?
Decaf espresso isn’t completely caffeine-free. While most of the caffeine is removed, a single shot still contains about 2 to 5 milligrams. It’s far less than regular espresso but not entirely zero.
Is Decaf Espresso Stronger Than Regular Coffee?
Decaf espresso isn’t stronger than regular coffee when it comes to caffeine. A shot carries only a few milligrams, while regular coffee provides much more. However, decaf espresso still delivers a bold, concentrated flavor that feels strong on the palate without the stimulating effects of caffeine.
Is Decaf Espresso Healthy?
Yes, decaf espresso can be a healthy choice. It’s low in calories, free of fats and carbs, and still provides antioxidants. Without the high caffeine content, it’s gentler on sleep, digestion, and overall balance, making it a smart option for many coffee lovers.
Final Thoughts
Decaf espresso may not be completely caffeine-free, but with only 2 to 5 milligrams per shot, it’s far lighter than regular espresso.
Made from decaf coffee beans instead of fully caffeinated coffee, it offers the same bold flavor as drinks brewed from roasted coffee beans.
Just like brewed coffee or even decaf tea and decaffeinated tea, a decaf espresso gives you options if you want to enjoy coffee flavor without much caffeine.
Whether you prefer a decaf latte, the best decaf coffee from local coffee shops, or something soothing like chamomile tea, there’s no shortage of choices for reducing your coffee consumption.
For those sensitive to caffeine levels, the brewing method and process used to extract caffeine, such as the Swiss Water Process, play a role in how much trace caffeine remains.
A single shot made with fresh coffee grounds, run through espresso machines, and topped with steamed milk can still satisfy your craving without overwhelming your system.
If you’re working to avoid caffeine because of caffeine sensitivity, switching to decaf options lets you enjoy your favorite drinks, from instant coffee to hot cocoa, without worry.
Decaf espresso is proof that you can still savor a strong, flavorful cup of coffee even while cutting back on consuming caffeine.
For more guides on coffee, keto-friendly drinks, and helpful recipes, make sure to visit our website and discover tips that fit your lifestyle.