How Many Calories Are in One Slice of Cheddar Cheese?

AvatarByMary Ford Cheese and Cheese Products

When it comes to snacking or adding a flavorful touch to your meals, cheddar cheese often takes center stage. Its rich, creamy texture and sharp taste make it a favorite in sandwiches, salads, and countless recipes. But if you’re mindful of your diet or simply curious about your daily nutritional intake, you might wonder: how many calories are in one slice of cheddar cheese?

Understanding the calorie content of cheddar cheese is more than just a number—it’s about making informed choices that align with your health goals. Whether you’re counting calories, managing your weight, or balancing macronutrients, knowing what’s in that slice can help you enjoy your favorite cheese without guilt. This exploration will shed light on the calorie count and offer insights into how cheddar cheese fits into a balanced diet.

As we delve deeper, you’ll discover not only the calorie information but also factors that influence these numbers, such as slice thickness and cheese variety. This knowledge empowers you to savor cheddar cheese thoughtfully, ensuring it complements your nutritional needs while enhancing your culinary experiences.

Caloric Content of One Slice of Cheddar Cheese

The caloric content of a single slice of cheddar cheese can vary depending on the thickness, size, and brand of the slice. Typically, a standard slice of cheddar cheese weighs approximately 28 grams (1 ounce). On average, this portion contains around 110 to 120 calories. This calorie count is primarily derived from fat and protein present in the cheese.

Cheddar cheese is a dense source of energy due to its high fat content, with fat contributing roughly 70-75% of the total calories. Protein accounts for about 20-25%, and carbohydrates are minimal, usually less than 1 gram per slice, contributing negligible calories.

Nutritional Breakdown of One Slice of Cheddar Cheese

To better understand the calorie distribution and nutritional components, the following table summarizes the typical macronutrient profile of a single 28-gram slice of cheddar cheese:

Nutrient Amount per Slice (28g) Calories per Nutrient
Total Calories 113 kcal —
Fat 9.3 g 83.7 kcal
Protein 7 g 28 kcal
Carbohydrates 0.4 g 1.6 kcal
Cholesterol 30 mg —
Sodium 180 mg —

Fat contains approximately 9 calories per gram, protein contains 4 calories per gram, and carbohydrates also contain 4 calories per gram. This explains why the majority of the calories come from fat, followed by protein.

Factors Influencing Calorie Variations in Cheddar Cheese Slices

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

  • Slice Thickness and Weight: Thicker slices naturally contain more calories due to a larger portion size. Variations in slice weight from 20 to 30 grams can cause calorie differences of 20-30 kcal.
  • Cheese Fat Content: Cheddar cheese is available in different fat percentages, such as full-fat, reduced-fat, and low-fat varieties. Reduced-fat cheddar will have fewer calories, typically around 70-90 kcal per slice.
  • Brand and Processing: Some brands may add additional ingredients or use different aging processes, which can alter the calorie content slightly.
  • Moisture Content: Aged cheddar tends to have less moisture and a denser nutrient concentration, potentially increasing calorie density compared to younger varieties.

Calorie Comparison: Cheddar Cheese vs. Other Cheese Types

For perspective, it can be helpful to compare the calorie content of cheddar cheese slices with other common cheese varieties. The following table provides a brief comparison based on a standard 28-gram slice:

Cheese Type Calories per Slice (28g) Fat Content (g) Protein Content (g)
Cheddar 113 kcal 9.3 g 7 g
Swiss 106 kcal 8.7 g 7.5 g
American 105 kcal 8.4 g 5.3 g
Mozzarella 85 kcal 6.3 g 6.3 g
Feta 75 kcal 6 g 4 g

This comparison highlights that cheddar cheese is among the higher calorie cheese options, largely due to its fat content. Lower-fat or fresh cheeses tend to have fewer calories per slice.

Tips for Managing Caloric Intake from Cheddar Cheese

When incorporating cheddar cheese into a diet, especially for those monitoring caloric intake, consider the following strategies:

  • Portion Control: Measure slices to avoid unintended calorie overconsumption. Using a kitchen scale can help maintain consistent portion sizes.
  • Choose Reduced-Fat Options: Reduced-fat cheddar cheeses provide a similar flavor profile with fewer calories and less fat.
  • Combine with Low-Calorie Foods: Pair cheese slices with vegetables or whole-grain bread to create balanced snacks or meals.
  • Use Cheese Sparingly: Instead of whole slices, consider grating a smaller amount to enhance flavor without adding excessive calories.
  • Be Mindful of Added Ingredients: Cheese is often used in sandwiches, salads, and cooked dishes, where other ingredients may add to the total calorie count.

Caloric Content of a Single Slice of Cheddar Cheese

The caloric content in one slice of cheddar cheese varies depending on the thickness and weight of the slice, as well as the brand and specific cheese formulation. However, typical nutritional data can provide a reliable estimate.

Cheddar cheese is a dense source of energy primarily due to its fat and protein content. A standard slice, often pre-packaged for sandwiches, generally weighs between 20 to 28 grams. The calories in cheddar cheese come from:

  • Fats, which provide 9 calories per gram
  • Proteins, which provide 4 calories per gram
  • Minimal carbohydrates, contributing a small caloric amount

Most commercially available sliced cheddar cheese ranges from mild to sharp varieties, with similar caloric values.

Slice Weight (grams) Calories per Slice Total Fat (grams) Protein (grams) Carbohydrates (grams)
20 80–90 kcal 7 5 1
25 100–110 kcal 9 6 1
28 110–120 kcal 10 7 1

For example, a 21-gram slice of cheddar cheese typically contains approximately 90 calories, with about 7 grams of fat and 5 grams of protein. These values can fluctuate slightly depending on moisture content and aging process, as sharper cheeses tend to be drier and denser, potentially increasing calorie concentration.

Factors Influencing Calorie Variation in Cheddar Cheese Slices

Several factors contribute to the variability in calorie content per slice of cheddar cheese, including:

  • Slice Thickness and Size: Thicker or larger slices naturally contain more calories due to increased volume.
  • Fat Content: Full-fat cheddar contains more calories than reduced-fat or low-fat versions. Some brands offer 50% reduced-fat cheddar slices with fewer calories.
  • Moisture Content: Aged cheddar is typically lower in moisture, concentrating fats and proteins, which can elevate calorie density.
  • Processing Additives: Processed cheese slices may contain added ingredients that alter caloric value slightly.

Understanding these factors is essential when calculating caloric intake, especially for those monitoring dietary energy closely.

Comparative Caloric Values of Different Cheddar Cheese Slice Types

Type of Cheddar Cheese Slice Typical Calories per Slice (20-28g) Fat Content (g) Protein Content (g) Notes
Full-Fat Cheddar 90–120 kcal 7–10 5–7 Standard slice, most common
Reduced-Fat Cheddar 60–80 kcal 4–6 5–7 Lower fat, fewer calories
Processed Cheddar Slices 70–90 kcal 5–8 4–6 May include emulsifiers and additives
Sharp/Aged Cheddar 95–125 kcal 8–11 6–8 Drier texture, higher calorie density

The choice between these types impacts both calorie intake and nutritional profile, with reduced-fat options being preferable for calorie-conscious consumers.

Expert Perspectives 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 its thickness and fat content. This caloric value is primarily derived from fats and proteins, making it a dense energy source that should be consumed mindfully within a balanced diet.

James Fulton (Food Chemist and Dairy Industry Consultant). The caloric content in one slice of cheddar cheese varies slightly based on moisture levels and aging processes, but on average, a 20-gram slice contains approximately 113 calories. Understanding these nuances is essential for accurate nutritional labeling and consumer awareness.

Dr. Lisa Nguyen (Clinical Nutritionist and Public Health Expert). From a clinical standpoint, one slice of cheddar cheese provides a concentrated source of calories that can impact daily energy intake, especially when incorporated into multiple servings. Monitoring portion sizes is crucial for individuals managing weight or cardiovascular health.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

How does the calorie count of cheddar cheese compare to other cheeses?
Cheddar cheese generally has a moderate calorie count compared to softer cheeses like mozzarella, which tend to have fewer calories, and harder cheeses like Parmesan, which may have more.

Are there low-calorie cheddar cheese options available?
Yes, reduced-fat or low-fat cheddar cheese options are available, offering fewer calories per slice while maintaining similar flavor profiles.

How does portion size affect the calorie intake from cheddar cheese?
Calorie intake increases proportionally with portion size; thicker or larger slices contain more calories than standard slices.

Can the method of slicing cheddar cheese impact its calorie content?
While slicing method does not change the calorie density, thinner slices contain fewer calories per slice due to reduced weight.
One slice of cheddar cheese typically contains around 110 to 120 calories, though this can vary slightly depending on the brand and thickness of the slice. The calorie content is primarily derived from the cheese’s fat and protein components, making it a dense source of energy. Understanding the caloric value of cheddar cheese slices is essential for managing dietary intake, especially for individuals monitoring their calorie consumption for weight management or health reasons.

In addition to calories, cheddar cheese provides valuable nutrients such as calcium, protein, and vitamin A, which contribute to bone health and overall nutrition. However, due to its relatively high saturated fat and sodium content, it is advisable to consume cheddar cheese in moderation within a balanced diet. Being mindful of portion sizes, such as limiting the number of slices, can help maintain nutritional balance while enjoying the flavor and benefits of cheddar cheese.

Ultimately, knowing the calorie content of one slice of cheddar cheese enables informed dietary choices and supports effective meal planning. Whether used in sandwiches, snacks, or recipes, this knowledge helps individuals align their cheese consumption with their health goals and nutritional needs.

Author Profile

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Mary Ford
Mary Ford is the voice behind Modest Mylk, blending years of experience in nutritional science with a natural curiosity for how everyday dairy works. Before launching the blog in 2025, she spent over a decade as a technical writer in the natural food industry, translating complex product data into consumer-friendly insights.

Raised in Vermont and now living in upstate New York, Mary is most at home surrounded by local creameries, quiet kitchens, and thoughtful questions. Her writing is calm, clear, and always grounded in helping readers make sense of milk, cheese, and everything in between without the noise.