How Many Calories Are in One Slice of Cheddar Cheese?

AvatarByTonya Taylor Nutrition & Health

When it comes to maintaining a balanced diet or simply keeping an eye on your daily calorie intake, understanding the nutritional content of everyday foods is essential. Cheese, especially cheddar, is a beloved staple in many kitchens around the world—renowned for its rich flavor and versatility. But have you ever paused to wonder exactly how many calories are packed into just one slice of this popular cheese?

Cheddar cheese slices often find their way into sandwiches, snacks, and recipes, making them a frequent choice for many. However, the calorie count can vary depending on factors such as thickness, brand, and fat content. Gaining a clear picture of the calorie content in a single slice can help you make more informed dietary choices without sacrificing the enjoyment of this classic dairy treat.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the calorie content of one slice of cheddar cheese, delve into its nutritional profile, and offer insights on how it fits into various eating plans. Whether you’re counting calories, managing weight, or simply curious, this information will equip you with the knowledge to savor cheddar cheese wisely.

Caloric Content of One Slice of Cheddar Cheese

The number of calories in one slice of cheddar cheese depends primarily on the thickness and weight of the slice. Typically, a standard slice of cheddar cheese weighs about 20 to 28 grams. Within this range, the calorie content can vary slightly due to differences in fat content and moisture levels found in various cheddar cheese brands.

On average, one slice of cheddar cheese (approximately 28 grams or 1 ounce) contains around 110 to 120 calories. This caloric value comes mainly from fat and protein, with fat contributing the largest portion of the energy content.

To provide a clearer perspective, the approximate calorie distribution in one slice of cheddar cheese is as follows:

  • Fat: Approximately 9 grams
  • Protein: Approximately 7 grams
  • Carbohydrates: Less than 1 gram
  • Calories: Around 110 to 120 kcal

Factors Influencing Calorie Count in Cheddar Cheese Slices

Several factors influence the caloric content of cheddar cheese slices, including:

  • Fat Content: Cheddar cheese can range from full-fat to reduced-fat or low-fat varieties. Full-fat cheddar typically has higher calories due to the greater fat percentage. For example, reduced-fat cheddar slices can have around 70-90 calories per slice.
  • Slice Thickness: Thicker slices naturally contain more cheese by weight, increasing the calorie count proportionally.
  • Brand and Processing: Some cheese manufacturers may add additional ingredients or use different aging processes, slightly altering the nutritional profile.
  • Moisture Content: Aged cheddar has less moisture and a denser texture, which can result in a higher calorie concentration per unit weight compared to younger, moister cheese.

Calorie Comparison of Different Types of Cheddar Cheese Slices

The following table outlines the typical calorie values for various types of cheddar cheese slices commonly found in stores:

Type of Cheddar Cheese Typical Slice Weight (grams) Calories per Slice Fat per Slice (grams) Protein per Slice (grams)
Full-Fat Cheddar 28 115 9 7
Reduced-Fat Cheddar 28 85 5 7
Low-Fat Cheddar 28 70 3.5 7
Sharp Aged Cheddar 28 120 9.5 7

Calorie Breakdown by Macronutrients

Understanding the macronutrient composition of cheddar cheese helps explain its calorie content. The breakdown per slice (28 grams) roughly is:

  • Fat: Fat provides 9 calories per gram, making it the primary source of calories in cheddar cheese. With approximately 9 grams of fat in a full-fat slice, fat contributes about 81 calories.
  • Protein: Protein supplies 4 calories per gram. A slice typically contains 7 grams of protein, contributing about 28 calories.
  • Carbohydrates: Minimal in cheddar cheese, typically less than 1 gram, contributing negligible calories.

This macronutrient composition explains why cheddar cheese is a calorie-dense food, with fat content being the predominant factor influencing total calories.

Impact of Portion Size on Caloric Intake

When consuming cheddar cheese, portion size directly affects calorie consumption. Common serving formats include:

  • Single Slice: About 110-120 calories for full-fat cheddar.
  • Multiple Slices: Doubling or tripling slices multiplies calories accordingly.
  • Grated Cheese: Calorie content is proportional to the weight consumed, so measuring by grams is more accurate than estimating volume.

For individuals monitoring calorie intake, weighing cheese portions or using pre-packaged slices with nutrition labels can provide better control over consumption.

Additional Nutritional Considerations

While calories are important, cheddar cheese also provides essential nutrients, including calcium, vitamin A, and phosphorus. However, it is also relatively high in saturated fat and sodium, which should be taken into account for balanced dietary planning.

Key points to consider:

  • Cheddar cheese contributes beneficial nutrients but should be consumed in moderation due to fat and sodium levels.
  • Reduced-fat options offer lower calories while maintaining protein content.
  • Checking nutritional labels is important for accurate calorie tracking, as formulations vary by brand.

This detailed breakdown helps in making informed choices about cheddar cheese consumption based on caloric and nutritional needs.

Caloric Content of a Typical Slice of Cheddar Cheese

The calorie content of a single slice of cheddar cheese can vary depending on several factors including the thickness of the slice, the specific brand, and whether the cheese is full-fat, reduced-fat, or low-fat. However, a general estimate provides a useful reference for dietary planning.

On average, one slice of cheddar cheese weighs approximately 20 to 28 grams (about 0.7 to 1 ounce). The calorie content for this standard portion is as follows:

Type of Cheddar Cheese Approximate Weight per Slice Calories per Slice Fat Content (grams) Protein Content (grams)
Full-Fat Cheddar 22 g (0.8 oz) 90–110 kcal 7–9 g 6–7 g
Reduced-Fat Cheddar (e.g., 2% milkfat) 22 g (0.8 oz) 70–80 kcal 4–5 g 6–7 g
Low-Fat Cheddar (1%–2% milkfat) 22 g (0.8 oz) 50–60 kcal 3–4 g 6–7 g

These calorie values are approximate and should be used as a guideline. Nutritional labels on individual cheese products provide the most accurate calorie counts.

Factors Influencing Caloric Variation in Cheddar Cheese Slices

Several factors influence the caloric content of a single slice of cheddar cheese, including:

  • Slice Thickness and Weight: Thicker slices naturally contain more calories due to greater mass.
  • Moisture Content: Some cheddar cheeses have higher moisture content, reducing calorie density per gram.
  • Fat Content: Full-fat cheddar contains more calories compared to reduced-fat or low-fat variants because fat contributes 9 calories per gram.
  • Processing and Additives: Processed cheddar slices, such as those in sandwich slices, may have added ingredients affecting calorie count.

Calorie Comparison with Other Common Cheese Types

Understanding how cheddar compares to other cheeses can be helpful for dietary choices. Below is a comparison of calories per typical one-ounce (28g) slice or serving:

Cheese Type Calories (per 28g/1 oz) Fat Content (grams) Protein Content (grams)
Cheddar (Full-Fat) 110–115 kcal 9 g 7 g
Swiss 110–120 kcal 8–9 g 8 g
Mozzarella (Part-Skim) 70–85 kcal 5–6 g 7 g
American Cheese (Processed) 90–100 kcal 7 g 5 g
Feta 75–80 kcal 6 g 4 g

Practical Tips for Managing Cheese Calories

Cheddar cheese is nutrient-dense, providing protein and calcium, but it is also energy-dense due to fat content. Consider the following tips when incorporating cheddar cheese into your diet:

  • Portion Control: Use a kitchen scale or pre-sliced cheese to maintain consistent portion sizes and calorie intake.
  • Choose Reduced-Fat Options: Opt for reduced-fat or low-fat cheddar to decrease calorie and fat consumption without sacrificing flavor.
  • Balance with Other Foods: Pair cheese with vegetables or whole grains to create balanced meals that moderate total calorie density.
  • Read Labels: Always check nutritional information on packaging for specific calorie counts per slice or serving.

Expert Insights on Caloric Content in Cheddar Cheese Slices

Dr. Melissa Grant (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Scientist). A single slice of cheddar cheese typically contains around 110 to 120 calories, depending on its thickness and brand. This caloric value primarily comes from fats and proteins, making it a dense energy source that should be accounted for in daily dietary planning.

James Thornton (Food Chemist and Dairy Product Specialist). The caloric content in one slice of cheddar cheese is influenced by its moisture content and fat percentage. Standard cheddar slices, weighing approximately 20 grams, average about 113 calories, with roughly 9 grams of fat contributing the majority of these calories.

Dr. Elena Vasquez (Clinical Nutritionist and Metabolic Health Expert). From a metabolic perspective, one slice of cheddar cheese provides a moderate calorie load that can fit into balanced meal plans. Its combination of saturated fats and protein can promote satiety, but consumers should be mindful of portion sizes to manage caloric intake effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many calories are in one slice of cheddar cheese?
One slice of cheddar cheese typically contains around 110 to 120 calories, depending on the thickness and brand.

Does the calorie content vary between different types of cheddar cheese?
Yes, calorie content can vary slightly based on factors such as fat content, aging process, and moisture level in the cheese.

How does the calorie count of cheddar cheese compare to other cheeses?
Cheddar cheese generally has a moderate calorie count, higher than soft cheeses like mozzarella but lower than some aged or processed cheeses.

Can the calorie content of cheddar cheese affect weight management?
Yes, because cheddar cheese is calorie-dense and high in fat, portion control is important for managing calorie intake effectively.

Are there lower-calorie alternatives to regular cheddar cheese?
Reduced-fat or light cheddar cheese options are available and typically contain fewer calories per slice compared to full-fat versions.

How does the size of the slice impact the calorie count?
Larger or thicker slices of cheddar cheese contain more calories, so it is important to consider slice size when tracking calorie intake.
One slice of cheddar cheese typically contains around 110 to 120 calories, though this can vary slightly depending on the brand and thickness of the slice. Cheddar cheese is a nutrient-dense food, providing not only calories but also significant amounts of protein, calcium, and fat. Understanding the caloric content of a single slice is essential for those managing their daily caloric intake or following specific dietary plans.

It is important to consider that the calorie count can fluctuate based on factors such as the cheese’s fat content (full-fat versus reduced-fat) and portion size. For individuals tracking their nutrition closely, reading the product label or using a food scale can provide more precise calorie information. Additionally, incorporating cheddar cheese in moderation can contribute beneficial nutrients without excessively increasing calorie intake.

In summary, one slice of cheddar cheese is a convenient and flavorful source of calories and nutrients. Being mindful of portion sizes and nutritional content allows for better dietary balance and supports overall health goals. This knowledge empowers consumers to make informed choices when including cheddar cheese in their meals or snacks.

Author Profile

Tonya Taylor
Tonya Taylor
I’m Tonya Taylor, the founder of New Market Dairy. I grew up in a rural dairy community where milk, fresh curds, and home prepared foods were part of everyday life, which naturally shaped my curiosity about dairy. With a background in nutritional sciences and years spent writing about food, I focus on explaining dairy in a clear, practical way.

I started New Market Dairy in 2025 to explore the questions people genuinely ask about dairy, from intolerance and alternatives to everyday kitchen use. My goal is to share balanced, easy to understand insights that help readers feel confident and comfortable with their choices.