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

AvatarByNora Gaines Cheese

When it comes to snacking or adding flavor to your favorite dishes, cheddar cheese is a beloved choice for many. Its rich, tangy taste and creamy texture make it a staple in kitchens around the world. But if you’re mindful of your diet or simply curious about your daily calorie intake, you might find yourself wondering: how many calories are in one slice of cheddar cheese?

Understanding the calorie content of cheddar cheese can help you make informed decisions about portion sizes and overall nutrition. Whether you’re tracking macros, managing weight, or just aiming for a balanced diet, knowing what’s in that slice can provide valuable insight. Cheese is often seen as a high-calorie indulgence, but the specifics can vary depending on thickness, brand, and serving size.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the calorie count of a typical slice of cheddar cheese and discuss factors that influence its nutritional profile. This knowledge will empower you to enjoy cheddar cheese without guilt, fitting it seamlessly into your eating habits.

Caloric Content of Different Cheddar Cheese Slices

The number of calories in one slice of cheddar cheese varies depending on the thickness, weight, and fat content of the slice. Typically, cheddar cheese slices are portioned between 20 to 30 grams, with the calorie count influenced primarily by the fat percentage.

Standard full-fat cheddar cheese contains approximately 113 to 120 calories per ounce (28 grams). A single slice of processed cheddar cheese, often used in sandwiches, tends to weigh around 20 grams and contains fewer calories compared to a natural block slice due to differences in fat and moisture content.

The following table summarizes the approximate calorie content based on slice weight and type:

Type of Cheddar Cheese Slice Weight (grams) Calories per Slice Fat Content (grams) Protein Content (grams)
Natural Full-Fat Cheddar 28 (1 oz) 115 9.4 7
Natural Full-Fat Cheddar 20 82 6.7 5
Processed Cheddar Slice 20 70-80 5-6 4-5
Reduced Fat Cheddar 28 (1 oz) 90 6 7

It is important to note that processed cheddar slices may contain added ingredients such as emulsifiers and stabilizers, which can slightly alter their nutritional profile. Reduced fat options lower the calorie count primarily by reducing fat content, but protein content generally remains similar.

Factors Influencing Calorie Variation in Cheddar Cheese Slices

Several factors contribute to the variation in calories found in different slices of cheddar cheese:

  • Slice Thickness and Weight: Thicker slices naturally contain more calories due to a greater amount of cheese. Standard slices are often pre-packaged with consistent weight, but homemade or deli-cut slices may vary.
  • Fat Content: Cheddar cheese ranges from full-fat to reduced fat or low-fat varieties. The fat content is the most significant contributor to calorie differences since fat provides 9 calories per gram, whereas protein and carbohydrates provide 4 calories per gram each.
  • Moisture Content: Aged cheddars tend to have less moisture, making them denser and slightly higher in calories per gram compared to younger, softer varieties.
  • Processing and Additives: Processed cheddar slices often include additives that affect texture and melting properties. These can alter the overall calorie count slightly, depending on the product formulation.

Calorie Comparison with Other Cheese Types

For context, comparing cheddar cheese to other common cheese types helps understand where it stands calorically:

Cheese Type Calories per 28g (1 oz) Fat Content (grams) Protein Content (grams)
Cheddar (Full-Fat) 115 9.4 7
Swiss 110 8.7 8
Mozzarella (Whole Milk) 85 6.3 6.3
Feta 75 6 4
Parmesan 122 8 11

This comparison underscores that cheddar cheese is moderately high in calories and fat relative to softer cheeses like mozzarella or feta, but comparable to other hard cheeses like Swiss or Parmesan.

Practical Tips for Managing Caloric Intake from Cheddar Cheese

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

  • Portion Control: Use pre-sliced cheese or measure block cheese to control portions accurately.
  • Choose Reduced Fat Varieties: Opt for reduced fat or part-skim cheddar cheeses to reduce calories without sacrificing flavor significantly.
  • Pair Wisely: Combine cheddar with fiber-rich foods like whole grain bread and vegetables to enhance satiety and nutritional balance.
  • Mind Additives: Processed cheese slices may be lower in calories but can contain sodium and additives that impact health; always read labels.
  • Use as a Flavor Enhancer: Instead of using large slices, grate or shave cheddar over dishes to add flavor with fewer calories.

By understanding the calorie content and variations within cheddar cheese slices, you can make informed dietary choices that fit your nutritional goals.

Caloric Content of One Slice of Cheddar Cheese

The calorie count in one slice of cheddar cheese can vary depending on the thickness, size, and brand of the slice. Typically, a single slice is standardized in pre-packaged cheese products, making it easier to estimate the caloric value.

On average, one slice of cheddar cheese weighs approximately 20 to 28 grams. The calorie content is primarily derived from the cheese’s fat and protein content, with fat contributing the majority of the calories.

Type of Slice Approximate Weight (grams) Calories per Slice Fat Content (grams) Protein Content (grams)
Standard Pre-Packaged Slice 21 80-110 kcal 7-9 5-7
Thin Slice (Deli Style) 15-18 60-85 kcal 5-7 4-5
Thick Slice (Homemade) 25-28 100-125 kcal 9-11 7-8

Factors Influencing Calorie Variation

Several factors affect the calorie content in a slice of cheddar cheese:

  • Slice Thickness: Thicker slices naturally contain more cheese mass, leading to increased calories.
  • Moisture Content: Cheddar cheese can range from mild to extra sharp varieties, which can have slight differences in moisture and fat content, altering calories.
  • Brand and Processing: Processed cheddar slices may contain added ingredients such as emulsifiers or preservatives that can slightly modify calorie values.
  • Fat Content Variation: Some cheddar cheeses are available in reduced-fat or low-fat varieties, which significantly lowers calories per slice.

Caloric Breakdown by Macronutrients in Cheddar Cheese

Understanding the macronutrient composition clarifies how calories accumulate in cheddar cheese. The following approximate values are based on a 21-gram slice:

Macronutrient Amount per Slice Calories per Gram Total Calories
Fat 8 grams 9 kcal 72 kcal
Protein 6 grams 4 kcal 24 kcal
Carbohydrates 0.5 grams 4 kcal 2 kcal

As shown, fat is the predominant contributor to the calorie count, accounting for roughly 70-75% of the total energy in a slice of cheddar cheese.

Comparing Calorie Content Across Different Cheese Types

Cheddar cheese is relatively calorie-dense compared to some other cheese varieties. Here is a comparison of calories per typical slice (approximately 21 grams) of several common cheeses:

Cheese Type Calories per Slice Fat Content (grams)
Cheddar 80-110 kcal 7-9
Swiss 90-100 kcal 7-8
Mozzarella (part-skim) 60-70 kcal 4-5
American (processed) 50-70 kcal 4-6
Feta 70-80 kcal 6-7

These variations emphasize the importance of checking nutritional labels, especially for those managing calorie intake closely.

Expert Insights on Caloric Content in Cheddar Cheese Slices

Dr. Emily Carter (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Scientist). One slice of cheddar cheese typically contains between 110 to 120 calories, depending on the thickness and brand. This caloric value primarily comes from fat and protein, making it a dense source of energy that should be consumed mindfully within a balanced diet.

James Holloway (Food Technologist and Dairy Product Specialist). The calorie count in a single slice of cheddar cheese can vary slightly due to moisture content and aging processes. Generally, a standard 28-gram slice contains about 113 calories, with fat contributing roughly 70% of those calories, highlighting the importance of portion control for calorie-conscious consumers.

Dr. Sophia Nguyen (Clinical Nutritionist and Public Health Expert). Understanding the caloric density of cheddar cheese slices is crucial for managing dietary intake, especially for individuals monitoring fat consumption. One slice, averaging around 110 calories, offers a convenient protein source but should be integrated thoughtfully into meal planning to maintain overall nutritional balance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

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

Are there low-calorie alternatives to traditional cheddar cheese slices?
Yes, reduced-fat or low-fat cheddar cheese slices offer fewer calories while maintaining similar flavor profiles.

How does the calorie count of cheddar cheese compare to other cheese types?
Cheddar cheese generally has a moderate calorie count; softer cheeses like mozzarella may have fewer calories, while harder cheeses like Parmesan often have more.

Can the calorie content in cheddar cheese slices impact a weight management diet?
Yes, due to its calorie density and fat content, portion control is important when including cheddar cheese in a weight management plan.

Is the calorie information on cheddar cheese slices reliable for dietary tracking?
Calorie information on packaging is generally accurate but can vary slightly; using averages and standard serving sizes is recommended for tracking.
One slice of cheddar cheese typically contains approximately 110 to 120 calories, though this can vary slightly depending on the thickness of the slice and the specific brand. Cheddar cheese is a nutrient-dense food, providing not only calories but also essential nutrients such as protein, calcium, and fat. Understanding the calorie content is important for those managing their dietary intake, especially in the context of balanced nutrition or weight management.

It is also important to consider portion size and frequency of consumption when incorporating cheddar cheese into a diet. While it can be a valuable source of nutrients, excessive intake may contribute to higher calorie consumption and increased saturated fat intake. Moderation and awareness of serving sizes can help individuals enjoy cheddar cheese as part of a healthy and varied diet.

In summary, knowing the calorie content of one slice of cheddar cheese aids in making informed dietary choices. This knowledge supports better meal planning and nutritional balance, ensuring that cheddar cheese can be enjoyed without compromising overall health goals.

Author Profile

Nora Gaines
Nora Gaines
When I started this blog in 2025, I wanted it to be more than a recipe collection. Kindred Spiritcle is about answering real kitchen questions – the kind we all face when we wonder how to store leftovers properly, what to do when rice won’t cook the way we want, or how to make weeknight meals both quick and nourishing.

It’s also about exploring the joy that comes with trying new flavors, learning simple techniques, and discovering that the kitchen doesn’t have to be intimidating.

Every article here is written to feel like a conversation with a friend. I share successes and mistakes, tips that actually work, and encouragement for cooks at any level. Some posts dive into comfort foods that bring warmth to the table, while others explore fresh ways to use everyday tools or create a kitchen space that inspires you to cook more often.