How Many Calories Are There in a Slice of Cheddar Cheese?

AvatarByCynthia Crase Cheese

When it comes to snacking or adding a flavorful touch to your meals, cheddar cheese is often a top choice. Its rich, tangy taste and creamy texture make it a beloved staple in many kitchens around the world. But beyond its deliciousness, cheddar cheese also carries nutritional value that can impact your daily calorie intake—a detail that many health-conscious individuals find important to understand.

Whether you’re tracking your macros, managing your weight, or simply curious about what you’re eating, knowing how many calories are in a slice of cheddar cheese can help you make informed dietary decisions. Cheese portions can vary, and so can their calorie content, depending on factors like thickness and fat content. This makes it essential to get a clear picture of what a typical slice contributes to your overall nutrition.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the calorie count of cheddar cheese slices and discuss how this fits into a balanced diet. We’ll also touch on how different types of cheddar and serving sizes can influence the numbers, helping you enjoy your favorite cheese without any guesswork.

Caloric Content of Different Sizes and Types of Cheddar Cheese Slices

The calorie count in a slice of cheddar cheese can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the slice thickness, weight, and the specific type of cheddar used. Standard pre-packaged slices often have a uniform thickness, but when slicing from a block, the thickness and size can vary, affecting the caloric content.

A typical slice of cheddar cheese weighing approximately 28 grams (1 ounce) contains around 110 to 120 calories. However, this can vary slightly depending on the fat content and aging process of the cheese.

Below is a detailed table illustrating the approximate calorie content for different slice weights and types of cheddar cheese:

Cheddar Cheese Type Slice Weight (grams) Calories per Slice Fat Content (grams) Protein Content (grams)
Regular Cheddar (Mild) 28 (1 oz) 115 9.5 7
Sharp Cheddar 28 (1 oz) 120 10 7
Reduced Fat Cheddar 28 (1 oz) 70 4.5 8
Extra Sharp Cheddar 28 (1 oz) 125 10.5 7
Mini Slice (14 grams) 14 (0.5 oz) 57 4.5 3.5

The table highlights that sharper cheddars tend to have slightly higher calorie and fat content due to their aging process and concentration of milk solids. Reduced-fat versions offer a lower calorie option but may have a slightly different texture and taste.

Factors Influencing Calorie Variation in Cheddar Cheese Slices

Several factors contribute to the variation in caloric content among cheddar cheese slices:

  • Fat Content: Cheddar cheese is primarily composed of milk fat and protein. The fat content significantly impacts calorie density since fat provides 9 calories per gram, compared to 4 calories per gram for protein and carbohydrates. Full-fat cheddar has higher calorie content, whereas reduced-fat or low-fat versions contain fewer calories.
  • Slice Thickness and Weight: The thickness of a slice directly affects its weight and calorie content. For example, a thin slice weighing 14 grams contains roughly half the calories of a standard 28-gram slice.
  • Aging Process: Aged cheddar cheeses, such as sharp or extra sharp varieties, tend to have a higher concentration of milk solids and less moisture. This concentration slightly increases calorie content per gram compared to milder cheddar.
  • Additives and Processing: Some pre-packaged slices may contain additional ingredients such as emulsifiers or preservatives, which can marginally alter the nutritional profile.

Calorie Comparison with Other Common Cheese Types

To provide perspective on cheddar cheese calories, it is useful to compare with other popular cheese varieties that are commonly sliced:

Cheese Type Calories per 28g (1 oz) Slice Fat Content (grams) Protein Content (grams)
Cheddar 115 9.5 7
Swiss 110 8.8 8
American 105 8 6
Provolone 98 7.5 7
Mozzarella (Whole Milk) 85 6.3 7

From the table, cheddar cheese is on the higher end of calorie content compared to other commonly sliced cheeses, primarily due to its fat concentration. This information can be useful for individuals tracking caloric intake or managing dietary fat consumption.

Practical Tips for Managing Calorie Intake from Cheddar Cheese

When incorporating cheddar cheese into a balanced diet, consider the following strategies to manage calorie intake effectively:

  • Use Portion Control: Measure slices or use pre-portioned slices to avoid unintended excess consumption.
  • Choose Reduced-Fat Options: Opt for reduced-fat or low-fat cheddar varieties to cut calories without sacrificing flavor entirely.
  • Balance with Other Foods: Pair cheese with nutrient-dense, low-calorie foods such as vegetables or whole-grain bread to create satisfying meals with moderate calorie content

Caloric Content of a Typical Slice of Cheddar Cheese

Cheddar cheese is a popular dairy product known for its rich flavor and versatility. Understanding the caloric content of a slice of cheddar cheese is essential for dietary planning and nutritional awareness.

The number of calories in a slice of cheddar cheese depends on several factors, including the slice’s thickness, weight, and the specific brand or variety. However, an average slice typically weighs around 20 to 28 grams (approximately 0.7 to 1 ounce).

Portion Size Approximate Weight (grams) Calories Protein (g) Total Fat (g) Carbohydrates (g)
Single slice (standard deli slice) 20 80 5 7 0.3
Thick slice (approximately 28 grams) 28 113 7 9 0.4

Calories in cheddar cheese primarily come from its fat and protein content. Fat contributes approximately 9 calories per gram, while protein provides about 4 calories per gram. The carbohydrate content in cheddar cheese is minimal.

Factors Affecting Calorie Variation in Cheddar Cheese Slices

Several variables can influence the caloric value of a slice of cheddar cheese:

  • Slice Thickness and Weight: Thicker slices contain more cheese mass, thereby increasing calorie count.
  • Type of Cheddar: Mild, sharp, and extra sharp cheddars may vary slightly in fat content, affecting calories.
  • Fat Content: Reduced-fat or low-fat cheddar varieties contain fewer calories compared to full-fat versions.
  • Brand and Processing: Different manufacturers may have varying moisture and fat percentages, influencing caloric density.
  • Added Ingredients: Some processed cheddar slices may include additives or preservatives that marginally affect calorie count.

Comparing Caloric Values of Cheddar Cheese Varieties

The following table compares the calories found in different types of cheddar cheese slices based on a 20-gram serving size:

Cheddar Type Calories (per 20g slice) Fat Content (g) Protein Content (g)
Full-fat Cheddar 80 7 5
Reduced-fat Cheddar 60 4.5 5
Extra Sharp Cheddar 85 7.5 5.2
Organic Cheddar 78 6.8 5

Choosing reduced-fat or light cheddar cheese can reduce calorie intake without significantly compromising protein content, which can be beneficial for weight management or specific dietary goals.

Nutritional Considerations Beyond Calories

While calories are an important measure, cheddar cheese also provides key nutrients that contribute to a balanced diet:

  • Protein: Supports muscle repair and maintenance; cheddar cheese is a good source of high-quality protein.
  • Calcium: Essential for bone health, cheddar cheese is a rich source of calcium.
  • Vitamin A: Present in moderate amounts, supporting immune function and vision.
  • Sodium: Cheddar cheese can be relatively high in sodium; individuals monitoring salt intake should consider this.
  • Fat Quality: Contains saturated fats, which should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Incorporating cheddar cheese in moderation allows individuals to enjoy its flavor and nutritional benefits while managing caloric intake effectively.

Expert Perspectives on Caloric Content in Cheddar Cheese Slices

Dr. Melissa Hartman (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 derives from its fat and protein content, making it a nutrient-dense option but one that should be consumed in moderation within a balanced diet.

James O’Connor (Food Chemist and Dairy Product Specialist). The calorie count in a slice of cheddar cheese can vary slightly depending on the fat percentage and aging process. Standard full-fat cheddar generally contains about 113 calories per slice, whereas reduced-fat versions may have fewer calories but also altered texture and flavor profiles.

Dr. Anita Desai (Clinical Nutritionist and Public Health Expert). Understanding the caloric content of cheddar cheese slices is essential for individuals managing weight or cardiovascular health. While one slice typically contains around 110 calories, it also delivers valuable nutrients such as calcium and vitamin D, which should be factored into overall dietary planning rather than focusing solely on calorie count.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

Does the calorie content vary between different types of cheddar cheese?
Yes, calorie content can vary slightly depending on the fat content and aging process, with reduced-fat versions containing fewer calories.

How does the calorie content of cheddar cheese compare to other cheeses?
Cheddar cheese generally has a higher calorie content than softer cheeses like mozzarella but is comparable to other hard cheeses such as Swiss or gouda.

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

Can eating cheddar cheese in moderation fit into a weight management plan?
Yes, consuming cheddar cheese in controlled portions can fit into a balanced diet, as it provides essential nutrients like calcium and protein despite its calorie density.

Does the size or thickness of the slice affect the calorie count?
Absolutely; thicker or larger slices contain more calories, so portion control is important when monitoring calorie intake.
a typical slice of cheddar cheese contains approximately 110 to 120 calories, though this can vary slightly depending on the thickness and brand. Cheddar cheese is a calorie-dense food due to its high fat content, which contributes significantly to its energy value. Understanding the calorie content is essential for those monitoring their daily caloric intake or managing dietary goals.

It is important to consider portion size when incorporating cheddar cheese into meals, as even small variations in slice thickness can impact total calorie consumption. Additionally, cheddar cheese provides valuable nutrients such as protein, calcium, and vitamins, making it a nutrient-rich option despite its caloric density.

Overall, being mindful of the calorie content in a slice of cheddar cheese allows individuals to enjoy its flavor and nutritional benefits while maintaining balanced dietary habits. Careful portion control combined with awareness of its caloric value supports effective nutrition management and healthy eating practices.

Author Profile

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Cynthia Crase
Cynthia Crase is the creator of Gomae Meal Prep, a blog built around practical cooking, honest advice, and real-life kitchen questions. Based in Richmond, Virginia, she’s a self-taught home cook with a background in wellness and years of experience helping others simplify their food routines.

Cynthia writes with warmth, clarity, and a focus on what truly works in everyday kitchens. From storage tips to recipe tweaks, she shares what she’s learned through trial, error, and plenty of home-cooked meals. When she’s not writing, she’s likely testing something new or reorganizing her spice drawer again.