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 often a top choice for many. Its rich, tangy taste and creamy texture make it a beloved ingredient in sandwiches, salads, and countless recipes. But beyond its delicious flavor, many people are curious about its nutritional content—especially the calorie count in a single slice.

Understanding how many calories are in a slice of cheddar cheese can be an important factor for those mindful of their diet or managing their daily energy intake. Whether you’re tracking calories for weight management, fitness goals, or simply aiming for a balanced diet, knowing the nutritional profile of your favorite cheese helps make informed choices. Cheddar cheese, like many dairy products, offers more than just calories; it also provides essential nutrients that contribute to overall health.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the calorie content of cheddar cheese slices, discuss factors that influence these numbers, and offer insights into how this popular cheese fits into various dietary plans. This knowledge will empower you to enjoy cheddar cheese while maintaining awareness of your nutritional goals.

Caloric Content of a Typical Slice of Cheddar Cheese

The caloric content of a slice of cheddar cheese can vary depending on the thickness, size, and brand, but generally, a standard slice weighs about 28 grams (1 ounce). On average, this amount contains approximately 110 to 120 calories. These calories primarily come from the fat and protein content inherent in cheddar cheese.

Cheddar cheese is a nutrient-dense food, with calories derived mainly from:

  • Fat: Provides the majority of the calories, contributing to cheddar’s rich flavor and creamy texture.
  • Protein: Offers essential amino acids, making cheddar a good source of dietary protein.
  • Carbohydrates: Present in minimal amounts, mostly as lactose.

Different brands may have slight variations in calorie count due to differences in moisture content and fat percentage. Reduced-fat or low-fat cheddar options will have fewer calories per slice compared to full-fat versions.

Nutritional Breakdown of a Typical Cheddar Cheese Slice

Understanding the macronutrient distribution helps clarify why cheddar cheese is relatively calorie-dense. The table below shows an approximate breakdown for one slice (28 grams) of regular cheddar cheese:

Component Amount per Slice (28g) Calories
Total Fat 9 g 81
Protein 7 g 28
Carbohydrates 1 g 4
Total Calories 113

These values represent averages and can fluctuate based on specific product formulations and serving sizes. For instance, sharper aged cheddar may have slightly different moisture and fat content compared to mild cheddar, which can affect caloric values.

Factors Influencing Caloric Variations in Cheddar Cheese Slices

Several variables impact the calorie count in cheddar cheese slices, including:

  • Slice Thickness and Size: Thicker or larger slices contain more cheese by weight, increasing total calories.
  • Fat Content: Full-fat cheddar generally has about 33% fat by weight, while reduced-fat varieties may contain 20% or less, leading to fewer calories.
  • Moisture Content: Higher moisture in cheese lowers calorie density since water adds weight without calories.
  • Additives and Processing: Some processed cheddar cheese slices include added ingredients like emulsifiers or flavor enhancers, potentially altering calorie content slightly.

When monitoring calorie intake, it is essential to check the nutrition label for exact values, especially when consuming pre-packaged or processed cheese slices.

Comparing Calories in Different Types of Cheese Slices

While cheddar cheese is popular, other cheese varieties have differing calorie profiles due to their unique compositions. The following comparison shows calories per typical 28-gram slice for common cheese types:

Cheese Type Calories per Slice (28g)
Cheddar (Full Fat) 110 – 120
Swiss 100 – 110
Mozzarella (Part-Skim) 70 – 85
American (Processed) 90 – 100
Feta 75 – 80

This comparison highlights that cheddar cheese is moderately calorie-dense relative to other popular cheeses, largely due to its fat content and aging process. For individuals seeking lower calorie options, part-skim mozzarella or reduced-fat cheese slices may be preferable.

Practical Tips for Managing Calorie Intake from Cheddar Cheese

To enjoy cheddar cheese while controlling calorie consumption, consider the following strategies:

  • Portion Control: Measure cheese slices or use pre-portioned packages to avoid unintentional overeating.
  • Choose Lower-Fat Versions: Opt for reduced-fat or part-skim cheddar to reduce calorie intake.
  • Balance with Other Nutrients: Pair cheese with fiber-rich vegetables or whole-grain products to create a more balanced meal.
  • Read Nutrition Labels: Always check for serving size and calorie information to make informed choices.
  • Limit Frequency: Use cheddar cheese as a flavor enhancer rather than a primary ingredient to moderate overall calories.

By understanding the caloric content and nutritional profile of cheddar cheese slices, consumers can better integrate this flavorful ingredient into a balanced diet.

Caloric Content of a Typical Slice of Cheddar Cheese

Cheddar cheese is a popular dairy product known for its rich flavor and versatility. When considering caloric intake, understanding the number of calories in a standard slice of cheddar cheese is essential for dietary planning and nutritional balance.

A typical slice of cheddar cheese weighs approximately 28 grams (1 ounce). The calorie content depends on the fat content and moisture levels, which can vary slightly between brands and types (e.g., mild, sharp, extra sharp).

Cheddar Cheese Type Weight per Slice (grams) Calories per Slice Fat Content (grams) Protein Content (grams)
Regular Cheddar 28 113 9.3 7
Reduced Fat Cheddar (2%) 28 70 4.5 8
Low Fat Cheddar (1%) 28 50 2.7 8

The calorie count primarily originates from fat content, which provides 9 calories per gram, while protein contributes 4 calories per gram. Carbohydrate content in cheddar cheese is negligible, typically less than 1 gram per slice.

Factors Affecting Calorie Variation in Cheddar Cheese Slices

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

  • Slice Thickness and Weight: Thicker or larger slices naturally contain more calories due to increased mass.
  • Fat Percentage: Full-fat cheddar contains significantly more calories than reduced or low-fat versions.
  • Moisture Content: Higher moisture content can slightly reduce calorie density as water dilutes the solids.
  • Brand Formulation: Different manufacturers may use varying milk sources, aging processes, and additives, affecting nutrient profiles.

When estimating calories for dietary tracking, it is advisable to check the nutrition label on the specific cheese product. Most packaged cheddar cheese slices provide detailed nutritional information, including calories per serving size.

Comparison of Cheddar Cheese Calories to Other Cheese Varieties

Understanding cheddar’s calorie content in relation to other cheeses can help with informed dietary choices. The table below compares calories in a 1-ounce slice of cheddar with other common cheeses:

Cheese Variety Calories per 1 oz (28g) Slice Typical Fat Content (grams)
Cheddar 113 9.3
Swiss 106 8.8
Mozzarella (Whole Milk) 85 6.3
Parmesan 122 8.1
Feta 75 6.0

This comparison highlights that cheddar cheese is moderately high in calories relative to other cheeses, primarily due to its fat content and density.

Tips for Incorporating Cheddar Cheese into a Calorie-Conscious Diet

For those monitoring calorie intake, cheddar cheese can be enjoyed in moderation by following these guidelines:

  • Portion Control: Measure slices or use pre-portioned cheese to avoid unintentional overeating.
  • Choose Reduced-Fat Options: Select 2% or 1% fat cheddar varieties to lower calorie and fat consumption.
  • Use as a Flavor Enhancer: Incorporate small amounts of cheddar to add flavor without excessive calories.
  • Balance with Nutrient-Dense Foods: Pair cheese with vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins for a balanced meal.
  • Mind the Accompaniments: Avoid high-calorie condiments or bread that can increase overall calorie intake.

Expert Insights on Caloric Content in Cheddar Cheese Slices

Dr. Emily Hartman (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Scientist). A standard slice of cheddar cheese typically contains around 110 to 120 calories, depending on the thickness and brand. This caloric value primarily comes from fat and protein content, making it a dense source of energy that should be accounted for in balanced meal planning.

Michael Chen (Food Chemist and Dairy Industry Consultant). The variation in calories per slice of cheddar cheese can be attributed to moisture content and aging processes. Generally, a one-ounce slice averages about 113 calories, with most calories derived from saturated fats, which influence both flavor and nutritional profile.

Sarah Martinez (Clinical Nutritionist and Public Health Expert). When considering how many calories are in a slice of cheddar cheese, it is important to note portion control. While a single slice provides a moderate calorie count, frequent consumption without mindful intake can contribute to excess calorie load, especially in diets aiming for weight management.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many calories are in a standard slice of cheddar cheese?
A standard slice of cheddar cheese typically contains between 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 levels in the cheddar cheese.

How does the calorie count of cheddar cheese compare to other cheeses?
Cheddar cheese generally has a moderate calorie count compared to other cheeses; it contains more calories than low-fat cheeses but fewer than some high-fat varieties like cream cheese.

Can the size of the slice affect the calorie count significantly?
Absolutely. Larger or thicker slices will contain more calories, so portion size is a key factor in calorie intake from cheddar cheese.

Is the calorie content listed on packaging reliable for all cheddar cheese slices?
Calorie information on packaging is based on standard serving sizes and should be accurate, but actual calories may vary slightly depending on slice thickness and brand.

Are there lower-calorie alternatives to traditional cheddar cheese?
Yes, reduced-fat or light cheddar cheese options are available and typically contain fewer calories per slice compared to regular cheddar cheese.
In summary, a typical slice of cheddar cheese contains approximately 110 to 120 calories, though this value can vary slightly depending on the thickness and brand of the slice. Cheddar cheese is a nutrient-dense food, providing a significant amount of protein, calcium, and fat, which contributes to its calorie content. Being mindful of portion sizes is essential for those monitoring their caloric intake, especially within balanced diets or weight management plans.

It is important to consider that the calorie count in cheddar cheese slices can differ based on factors such as reduced-fat versions or processed cheese slices, which may have lower calorie content. Additionally, the nutritional benefits of cheddar cheese, including its vitamin and mineral profile, make it a valuable food choice when consumed in moderation. Understanding these nuances helps individuals make informed dietary decisions aligned with their health goals.

Overall, incorporating cheddar cheese in controlled portions can complement a nutritious diet. Awareness of the calorie content per slice aids in effective meal planning and supports maintaining a balanced intake of macronutrients. For those seeking precise nutritional information, consulting product labels or nutrition databases is recommended to account for variations across different cheddar cheese products.

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.