How Many Calories Are in Sharp Cheddar Cheese?

AvatarByTonya Taylor Nutrition & Health

Sharp cheddar cheese is a beloved staple in many kitchens, known for its rich, tangy flavor and versatile use in a variety of dishes. Whether melted atop a burger, sliced for a snack, or shredded into a salad, sharp cheddar adds a distinctive taste that cheese lovers crave. But beyond its delicious profile, many people are curious about its nutritional content—especially the calorie count—when considering it as part of a balanced diet.

Understanding how many calories are in sharp cheddar cheese is essential for those mindful of their daily intake, whether for weight management, fitness goals, or overall health. Cheese, while packed with protein and calcium, can also be calorie-dense, making portion control important. This article will explore the calorie content of sharp cheddar cheese, helping you make informed choices without sacrificing flavor.

As we delve into the details, you’ll discover not only the calorie information but also insights into how sharp cheddar fits into various dietary plans. From casual snackers to dedicated food enthusiasts, knowing what’s in your cheese can enhance your enjoyment and support your nutritional goals. Get ready to uncover the facts behind this flavorful cheese and its place in your diet.

Caloric Content of Sharp Cheddar Cheese

Sharp cheddar cheese is a nutrient-dense food that contains a significant amount of calories primarily derived from fats and proteins. The calorie content can vary slightly depending on the brand, aging process, and fat content, but on average, sharp cheddar cheese provides approximately 110 to 120 calories per ounce (28 grams).

The main contributors to the calorie content in sharp cheddar cheese are:

  • Fat: Cheese is rich in fats, including saturated fats, which contribute the majority of the calories.
  • Protein: Cheese also contains a good amount of protein, which supplies calories and supports muscle maintenance.
  • Carbohydrates: Sharp cheddar cheese contains very minimal carbohydrates, usually less than 1 gram per serving, thus contributing negligibly to the total calorie count.

Below is a detailed breakdown of the nutritional values commonly found in a 1-ounce serving of sharp cheddar cheese:

Nutrient Amount per 1 oz (28g) Calories per nutrient
Total Calories 110-120 kcal 110-120 kcal
Total Fat 9-10 g 81-90 kcal (9 kcal/g)
Protein 7 g 28 kcal (4 kcal/g)
Carbohydrates 0.5-1 g 2-4 kcal (4 kcal/g)

Because the fat content is the major contributor to calories, variations in fat percentages (such as reduced-fat or extra-sharp varieties) can influence the total calorie count. For example, a reduced-fat sharp cheddar may contain closer to 80-90 calories per ounce.

Factors Affecting Caloric Variations in Sharp Cheddar Cheese

Several factors influence the caloric content of sharp cheddar cheese, which is why exact calorie counts can differ between products or brands:

  • Fat Content: The amount of milk fat used in cheese production varies. Full-fat sharp cheddar typically contains around 30-35% milk fat, while reduced-fat versions have less, resulting in fewer calories.
  • Aging Process: Sharp cheddar is aged longer than mild cheddar, leading to moisture loss. This results in a denser cheese with relatively higher calories per ounce due to concentration of nutrients.
  • Serving Size: Calorie counts are generally listed per ounce, but real-world consumption may vary. Portion control is essential for accurate calorie tracking.
  • Additives and Processing: Some commercial cheeses may include added ingredients like preservatives or flavor enhancers, which can slightly alter nutritional content.

Calorie Comparison with Other Cheese Varieties

To provide context, sharp cheddar cheese’s calories can be compared with other common cheese types. This helps in understanding its relative energy density for dietary planning.

Cheese Type Calories per 1 oz (28g) Fat Content (g) Protein Content (g)
Sharp Cheddar 110-120 9-10 7
Mozzarella (Whole Milk) 85-90 6-7 6-7
Parmesan 110-120 7-8 10-11
Swiss Cheese 105-110 8-9 8

Sharp cheddar cheese tends to have a higher fat content than some cheeses like mozzarella, which contributes to its richer flavor and higher calorie content. Parmesan, though similar in calories, provides more protein per serving, reflecting differences in cheese composition and aging.

Considerations for Caloric Intake and Dietary Planning

When incorporating sharp cheddar cheese into a diet, it is important to consider its calorie density and macronutrient profile:

  • Portion Control: Due to its high calorie and fat content, consuming cheese in moderation is key, especially for individuals managing weight or cardiovascular health.
  • Nutrient Balance: Sharp cheddar provides valuable protein and calcium, making it a nutrient-rich choice when balanced with lower-calorie foods like vegetables.
  • Dietary Restrictions: Those following low-fat or low-calorie diets may prefer reduced-fat or smaller servings to limit caloric intake.
  • Label Reading: Nutritional labels can vary; checking specific product information ensures accurate calorie counting.

By understanding the caloric makeup of sharp cheddar cheese, consumers can make informed choices aligned with their nutrition goals.

Caloric Content of Sharp Cheddar Cheese

Sharp cheddar cheese is a popular variety known for its distinctive tangy flavor and firm texture. Understanding its caloric content is essential for dietary planning, especially for those monitoring their energy intake or managing weight.

The calorie count in sharp cheddar cheese primarily depends on the serving size and the specific brand or producer, as slight variations in fat content and moisture levels can occur. However, standard nutritional data provide a reliable baseline for most consumers.

  • Calories per typical serving: A common serving size is 1 ounce (28 grams).
  • Calorie range: Typically, sharp cheddar cheese contains between 110 and 120 calories per ounce.
  • Calorie source: The majority of calories come from fat, with a smaller contribution from protein and trace carbohydrates.
Serving Size Calories Total Fat (g) Protein (g) Carbohydrates (g)
1 ounce (28 g) 115 9.4 7.0 0.4
100 grams 410 33.1 25.0 1.3

Factors Influencing Calorie Variations in Sharp Cheddar Cheese

Several factors can influence the caloric content of sharp cheddar cheese, which can be important when comparing different products or adjusting dietary intake:

  • Fat content: Cheddar cheeses vary in fat percentages, typically ranging from 30% to 40% fat by weight. Reduced-fat varieties contain fewer calories.
  • Moisture level: Cheese with higher moisture content tends to have fewer calories per ounce because of lower fat density.
  • Aging duration: Sharp cheddar is aged longer than mild cheddar, which can slightly affect moisture content but generally has minimal impact on calories.
  • Brand-specific formulations: Some manufacturers may add ingredients or use different milk sources, resulting in minor calorie differences.

Nutritional Breakdown and Caloric Sources in Sharp Cheddar Cheese

Sharp cheddar cheese provides energy mainly through its fat and protein content. The macronutrient breakdown per 1 ounce serving typically includes:

  • Fat: Approximately 9 grams, constituting roughly 75-80% of total calories. This includes saturated fats, which are significant in cheese.
  • Protein: Roughly 7 grams, contributing around 25% of the total caloric content.
  • Carbohydrates: Minimal, usually under 1 gram, providing negligible calories.

This macronutrient profile makes sharp cheddar cheese a dense source of energy, suitable for high-fat, low-carbohydrate diets, such as ketogenic or low-carb regimens.

Comparing Calories in Sharp Cheddar Cheese to Other Cheeses

To contextualize the caloric density of sharp cheddar cheese, consider the following comparison with other common cheeses per 1-ounce serving:

Cheese Type Calories Total Fat (g) Protein (g)
Sharp Cheddar 115 9.4 7.0
Mozzarella (part-skim) 72 4.5 7.9
Swiss 106 8.5 7.5
Parmesan 122 8.1 10.8

Sharp cheddar cheese is moderately higher in calories than mozzarella but comparable to Swiss and Parmesan, reflecting its rich fat and protein content.

Practical Considerations for Calorie Management

When incorporating sharp cheddar cheese into a diet, consider these practical points to manage calorie intake effectively:

  • Portion control: Measuring cheese servings can prevent accidental overconsumption of calories due to its dense energy content.
  • Pairing choices: Combining sharp cheddar with low-calorie foods like vegetables can balance meal caloric density.
  • Use in recipes: Melting or shredding cheese can enhance flavor without requiring large quantities.
  • Substitution: Opting for reduced-fat or lower-calorie cheese varieties may be

    Expert Insights on Caloric Content in Sharp Cheddar Cheese

    Dr. Emily Carter (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Scientist). Sharp cheddar cheese typically contains around 110 to 120 calories per one-ounce serving. This caloric density is primarily due to its fat content, which provides a concentrated source of energy. Consumers should consider portion sizes carefully, especially when managing calorie intake for weight control.

    Michael Reynolds (Food Chemist and Dairy Specialist). The calorie count in sharp cheddar cheese is influenced by its fat percentage, usually ranging from 30% to 35% milk fat. This results in approximately 115 calories per ounce. Variations in aging and moisture content can slightly affect the exact caloric value, but the differences remain minimal.

    Dr. Sarah Nguyen (Clinical Nutritionist and Cheese Industry Consultant). Sharp cheddar cheese is a nutrient-dense food that offers about 110 calories per ounce, with a balance of protein and fat contributing to its energy content. While it is calorie-rich, it also provides essential nutrients such as calcium and vitamin A, making it a valuable addition to a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    How many calories are in one ounce of sharp cheddar cheese?
    One ounce of sharp cheddar cheese contains approximately 115 calories.

    Does the calorie content vary between sharp and mild cheddar cheese?
    The calorie difference between sharp and mild cheddar cheese is minimal, with both types averaging around 110-120 calories per ounce.

    Are the calories in sharp cheddar cheese mostly from fat or protein?
    Most calories in sharp cheddar cheese come from fat, which constitutes about 9 grams per ounce, while protein contributes around 7 grams.

    How does the calorie content of sharp cheddar cheese compare to other cheeses?
    Sharp cheddar cheese has a moderate calorie content compared to other cheeses; for example, mozzarella typically has fewer calories, while blue cheese may have slightly more.

    Can the calorie content of sharp cheddar cheese affect weight management?
    Yes, due to its high fat and calorie content, consuming sharp cheddar cheese in moderation is important for effective weight management.

    Is there a significant calorie difference between shredded and block sharp cheddar cheese?
    No, the calorie content remains consistent between shredded and block sharp cheddar cheese; differences arise only from portion size.
    Sharp cheddar cheese is a nutrient-dense food that contains a significant amount of calories, primarily derived from its fat and protein content. On average, one ounce (28 grams) of sharp cheddar cheese contains approximately 110 to 120 calories. This calorie count can vary slightly depending on the brand and specific formulation, but it generally remains within this range.

    Understanding the calorie content of sharp cheddar cheese is important for those managing their dietary intake, especially in the context of weight management or macronutrient tracking. Despite its calorie density, sharp cheddar cheese also provides valuable nutrients such as calcium, protein, and vitamins A and B12, making it a beneficial addition to a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.

    In summary, while sharp cheddar cheese is relatively high in calories, it offers nutritional benefits that can complement a healthy eating plan. Being mindful of portion sizes is key to enjoying sharp cheddar cheese without exceeding daily caloric goals. This knowledge allows individuals to make informed dietary choices that align with their health objectives.

    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.