As the temperatures start to drop, many people turn to warm and cozy seasonal drinks to help them feel more festive. However, these drinks often come with a high calorie count, which can quickly add up if you’re not careful.

From pumpkin spice lattes to hot cocoa, here’s what you need to know about the calories in your favorite seasonal beverages.

Pumpkin Spice Lattes

Pumpkin spice lattes have become a staple of the fall season. However, these drinks are often loaded with sugar and calories. The standard pumpkin spice latte from Starbucks contains 380 calories and 50 grams of sugar in a 16-ounce size.

To put that in perspective, the American Heart Association recommends that men consume no more than 36 grams of added sugar per day, and women consume no more than 25 grams.

Hot Cocoa

Hot cocoa is a classic winter drink, but it can also be high in calories. A packet of Swiss Miss hot cocoa mix contains 100 calories and 16 grams of sugar. If you add whipped cream and marshmallows, the calorie count can quickly skyrocket.

Instead, try making your own hot chocolate using cocoa powder and almond milk for a healthier alternative.

Eggnog

Eggnog is a rich and creamy holiday drink that is made with eggs, cream, and sugar. However, it’s also one of the highest calorie seasonal drinks. One cup of eggnog can contain up to 340 calories and 20 grams of fat.

If you’re looking for a lighter version, try making your own with almond milk and less sugar.

Apple Cider

Apple cider is a refreshing fall drink that is often served warm. It’s made from fresh apples, spices, and sometimes sugar.

While it’s a healthier option than many other seasonal drinks, it can still be high in calories if it’s sweetened with sugar. One cup of apple cider can contain up to 200 calories. To reduce the calories, try making your own cider without added sugar or buying a sugar-free version.

Peppermint Mocha

Peppermint mochas are a popular seasonal drink that combines coffee, chocolate, and peppermint flavoring. While they can be delicious, they are also high in calories. A grande peppermint mocha from Starbucks contains 440 calories and 54 grams of sugar.

To enjoy this festive beverage without the added calories, try ordering it with almond milk or without whipped cream.

Cider Margarita

Cider margaritas are a unique seasonal drink that combine traditional margarita ingredients with apple cider. They can be a refreshing and fun way to celebrate the fall season. However, they can also be high in calories.

One 8-ounce cider margarita can contain up to 200 calories. To enjoy this drink without the added calories, try making your own with fresh lime juice and low-calorie sweetener.

White Hot Chocolate

White hot chocolate is a decadent winter drink that is made with white chocolate, milk, and cream. While it may be delicious, it can also be high in calories. One cup of white hot chocolate can contain up to 400 calories and 22 grams of fat.

To enjoy this treat without the added calories, try making it with almond milk or using a low-fat version of milk.

Chai Tea Latte

Chai tea lattes are a fragrant and spicy seasonal drink that are often enjoyed during the fall and winter months. While they can be a healthier option than other specialty drinks, they can still be high in calories.

A grande chai tea latte from Starbucks contains 240 calories and 42 grams of sugar. To enjoy this drink without the added calories, try ordering it with almond milk and without whipped cream.

Hot Buttered Rum

Hot buttered rum is a rich and indulgent winter drink that is made with rum, butter, sugar, and spices. While it may be delicious, it can also be high in calories. One serving of hot buttered rum can contain up to 300 calories.

To enjoy this drink without the added calories, try making it with low-fat butter or using a sugar-free version of the recipe.

Conclusion

While seasonal drinks can be a fun and festive way to celebrate the holidays, they can also be high in calories and sugar. To enjoy these drinks without the added calories, try making your own with healthier ingredients and low-calorie sweeteners.

By being mindful of your drink choices, you can still enjoy the flavors of the season without sacrificing your health goals.