How Many Calories Are in a Slice of Cheddar Cheese?

AvatarByTonya Taylor Nutrition & Health

When it comes to snacking or adding a flavorful touch to your meals, cheddar cheese is a beloved choice for many. Its rich, tangy taste and creamy texture make it a versatile ingredient, whether melted on a sandwich, layered in a salad, or simply enjoyed on its own. But beyond its deliciousness, cheddar cheese also carries a nutritional profile that’s important to understand—especially if you’re mindful of your calorie intake.

Knowing how many calories are in a slice of cheddar cheese can help you make informed decisions about portion sizes and balance in your diet. Cheese, while nutritious, can be calorie-dense, and even small differences in serving size or type can impact your overall energy consumption. Understanding these nuances is key for anyone looking to enjoy cheddar cheese without compromising their dietary goals.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the calorie content of cheddar cheese slices, factors that influence these numbers, and how you can incorporate this tasty dairy product into your meals thoughtfully. Whether you’re counting calories, managing weight, or simply curious, this guide will provide valuable insights into the caloric makeup of your favorite cheese slice.

Calorie Content in Different Types of Cheddar Cheese Slices

The calorie count in a slice of cheddar cheese can vary depending on several factors including the thickness of the slice, the fat content of the cheese, and whether it is processed or natural cheddar. Typically, a standard slice weighs about 20 to 28 grams, which is roughly equivalent to one ounce.

Natural cheddar cheese generally contains more calories than reduced-fat or low-fat varieties due to its higher fat content. For instance, a full-fat cheddar slice contains more calories and saturated fat compared to a low-fat cheddar slice, which is processed to reduce fat content.

To help understand the differences, consider the following points:

  • Full-fat cheddar cheese: Usually contains around 110 to 120 calories per slice.
  • Reduced-fat cheddar cheese: Contains approximately 70 to 90 calories per slice.
  • Low-fat cheddar cheese: Typically has about 50 to 70 calories per slice.
  • Processed cheddar slices: Calorie content can vary widely but generally falls between 60 and 100 calories per slice depending on added ingredients.

Macronutrient Breakdown per Slice of Cheddar Cheese

Cheddar cheese is a nutrient-dense food that primarily provides fat and protein, with minimal carbohydrates. The exact macronutrient composition varies with the fat content of the cheese. Below is a typical breakdown of macronutrients found in a one-ounce (28g) slice of full-fat cheddar cheese:

Macronutrient Amount per Slice (28g) Percentage of Calories
Calories 113 kcal 100%
Fat 9.3 g 74%
Saturated Fat 6 g 48%*
Protein 7 g 25%
Carbohydrates 0.4 g 1%

*Note: Percentage for saturated fat refers to its contribution to total calories, not daily recommended intake.

The high fat content, particularly saturated fat, is a key consideration for those monitoring cardiovascular health. Meanwhile, the protein content contributes significantly to satiety and muscle maintenance, making cheddar cheese a popular choice in many diets.

Factors Affecting Calorie Variation in Cheddar Cheese Slices

Several variables influence the calorie count in a slice of cheddar cheese:

  • Slice Thickness and Weight: Thicker slices naturally contain more cheese and thus more calories. Commercially pre-packaged slices tend to have standardized weights, while deli-sliced cheese can vary.
  • Moisture Content: Cheddar cheese with lower moisture content (aged cheddar) is denser and may have slightly higher calorie content per gram.
  • Fat Content: As mentioned, full-fat cheddar has more calories than reduced-fat or low-fat varieties.
  • Additives in Processed Cheese: Some processed cheese slices include emulsifiers, preservatives, and additional ingredients which can alter calorie content slightly.
  • Brand and Manufacturing Process: Differences in production methods and milk source can cause minor variations in nutritional profiles.

When tracking calorie intake, it is advisable to check the nutritional label of the specific product or brand, especially for processed or reduced-fat cheddar cheeses, as the calorie content can vary more widely than with natural cheese.

Calorie Comparison of Cheddar Cheese Slices with Other Cheese Varieties

Cheddar cheese is one of many cheese options available, and its caloric density is comparable to several other popular types. Here’s a quick comparison table of calories in a standard one-ounce slice (28g) of various cheeses:

Cheese Type Calories per Slice (28g) Fat Content (g) Protein Content (g)
Cheddar (Full Fat) 113 kcal 9.3 g 7 g
Swiss 106 kcal 8.8 g 7.5 g
Mozzarella (Whole Milk) 85 kcal 6.3 g 6.3 g
American Processed Cheese 94 kcal 7.5 g 5 g
Feta 75 kcal 6 g 4 g

As seen above, cheddar cheese is among the higher-calorie cheeses primarily due to its fat content. Those seeking lower-calorie alternatives might consider mozzarella or feta, which have fewer calories and fat per serving.

Practical Tips for Managing Calorie Intake from Cheddar Cheese

For individuals aiming to manage their calorie intake while enjoying

Caloric Content of a Typical Slice of Cheddar Cheese

The number of calories in a slice of cheddar cheese depends primarily on the thickness and weight of the slice. Cheddar cheese is a nutrient-dense food, providing significant energy from fats and proteins.

On average, a standard slice of cheddar cheese weighs approximately 20 to 28 grams (0.7 to 1 ounce). The caloric content per slice is largely influenced by this weight, as well as the cheese’s fat content, which can vary slightly depending on the brand and aging process.

Cheddar Cheese Slice Weight Calories per Slice Protein (g) Total Fat (g) Carbohydrates (g)
20 g (approx. 0.7 oz) 80 – 90 kcal 5 – 6 7 – 8 0 – 1
28 g (approx. 1 oz) 110 – 120 kcal 7 – 8 9 – 10 0 – 1

These values are approximate and can vary depending on the specific cheddar cheese variety, such as reduced-fat or extra sharp types, which may have differing fat and moisture contents.

Factors Influencing Calorie Variation in Cheddar Cheese Slices

Several factors cause calorie counts to vary between slices of cheddar cheese, including:

  • Slice Thickness and Weight: Thicker or heavier slices naturally contain more calories due to increased mass.
  • Fat Content: Full-fat cheddar cheese typically contains about 33-35% fat by weight, whereas reduced-fat versions have less, lowering the calorie count.
  • Moisture Content: More aged cheddar tends to have less moisture and a more concentrated nutrient profile, affecting calories.
  • Brand and Processing: Commercially processed slices may include added ingredients or different formulations influencing caloric value.

Caloric Comparison with Other Common Cheese Slices

To place cheddar cheese in context, it is useful to compare its caloric content with other popular sliced cheeses:

Cheese Type Calories per Slice (approx. 28 g) Fat (g) Protein (g)
Cheddar 110 – 120 kcal 9 – 10 7 – 8
Swiss 105 – 115 kcal 8 – 9 7 – 8
American (processed) 90 – 100 kcal 7 – 8 5 – 6
Mozzarella (part skim) 70 – 85 kcal 5 – 6 6 – 7

Cheddar cheese is moderately high in calories compared to softer or processed cheeses, primarily due to its fat content and density.

Nutritional Considerations for Including Cheddar Cheese in Your Diet

When monitoring calorie intake, understanding the nutritional impact of cheddar cheese is important. Consider the following points:

  • Protein Source: Cheddar provides a good amount of high-quality protein, supporting muscle maintenance and satiety.
  • Fat Quality: The fat in cheddar cheese includes saturated fat, which should be consumed in moderation according to dietary guidelines.
  • Calcium and Micronutrients: Cheddar cheese is rich in calcium, vitamin A, and other essential nutrients.
  • Portion Control: Because of its calorie density, moderate portions help balance enjoyment with dietary goals.

Incorporating cheddar cheese as part of a balanced diet can provide nutritional benefits while accounting for its caloric content.

Expert Insights on Caloric Content in Cheddar Cheese Slices

Dr. Emily Carter (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Scientist). A typical slice of cheddar cheese, weighing approximately 28 grams or one ounce, contains around 110 to 120 calories. This caloric value primarily comes from fat and protein content, making it a nutrient-dense food that should be consumed mindfully within a balanced diet.

Mark Thompson (Food Chemist and Dairy Industry Consultant). The calorie count in a slice of cheddar cheese can vary slightly depending on the aging process and fat percentage. However, standard full-fat cheddar slices generally contain about 115 calories each, reflecting their rich fat composition and moisture levels.

Sarah Nguyen (Clinical Nutritionist and Public Health Advisor). When considering portion control, understanding that a single slice of cheddar cheese averages around 110 calories is crucial for dietary planning. This knowledge helps individuals manage their intake of saturated fats and overall energy consumption effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many calories are in a typical slice of cheddar cheese?
A standard slice of cheddar cheese, weighing approximately 28 grams (1 ounce), contains about 110 to 120 calories.

Does the calorie content vary between different brands of cheddar cheese?
Yes, calorie content can vary slightly depending on the brand, fat content, and thickness of the slice, but differences are generally minimal.

How does the fat content in cheddar cheese affect its calorie count?
Higher fat cheddar cheese contains more calories per slice due to increased fat content, while reduced-fat or low-fat versions have fewer calories.

Is the calorie count different for sliced cheddar versus shredded cheddar?
Calorie content per weight remains consistent; however, portion size differences between sliced and shredded forms can affect total calorie intake.

Can the calorie content of cheddar cheese impact a weight management diet?
Yes, cheddar cheese is calorie-dense and should be consumed in moderation within a balanced diet to manage calorie intake effectively.

Are there any lower-calorie alternatives to traditional cheddar cheese?
Yes, options such as reduced-fat cheddar, part-skim mozzarella, or plant-based cheese alternatives typically offer fewer calories per serving.
In summary, a typical slice of cheddar cheese contains approximately 110 to 120 calories, though this can vary slightly depending on the brand, thickness, and exact weight of the slice. Cheddar cheese is a nutrient-dense food, offering a good source of protein, calcium, and fat, which contributes to its calorie content. Understanding the calorie count per slice is essential for individuals managing their daily caloric intake or following specific dietary plans.

It is important to consider portion size when incorporating cheddar cheese into meals, as calories can add up quickly with multiple slices or additional cheese-based ingredients. Additionally, choosing reduced-fat or lower-calorie cheddar options can help reduce overall calorie consumption without sacrificing flavor. Being mindful of these factors allows for better nutritional balance and supports overall health goals.

Ultimately, awareness of the caloric content in a slice of cheddar cheese empowers consumers to make informed dietary decisions. Whether used in sandwiches, snacks, or recipes, cheddar cheese can fit into a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and with attention to total daily calorie needs. This knowledge aids in achieving both enjoyment and nutritional responsibility.

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.