How Many Calories Are in 1 Corn on the Cob?

November 4, 2025 •

4 min read

According to nutritional data, a medium ear of plain, boiled corn on the cob contains approximately 88 to 99 calories. The final calorie count for 1 corn on the cob can vary significantly based on its size and any additions like butter or salt. This sweet and versatile vegetable is a staple for many, and understanding its base calorie value is key for mindful eating.

Quick Summary

The calorie count for a single ear of corn on the cob depends on its size and preparation methods. A medium ear is around 88-99 calories, a large ear is approximately 123 calories, while a small ear contains about 63 calories. The total value changes with added ingredients like butter.

Key Points

Medium Corn Calories: A medium, plain ear of corn on the cob contains approximately 88 to 99 calories.
Size Matters: The calorie count varies with size; a small ear has around 63 calories, while a large one has about 123 calories.
Toppings Increase Calories: Adding butter, oil, and other toppings can significantly increase the total calorie count.
Low-Calorie Cooking: Methods like boiling, steaming, and grilling are the healthiest ways to cook corn, as they don't add extra calories.
Nutrient-Rich: Corn is a good source of fiber, complex carbs, and antioxidants that support digestive health and vision.
Healthy Topping Alternatives: Options like citrus juice, herbs, and spices can provide flavor without the added calories of butter.

Understanding the Calorie Count of Corn on the Cob

Determining the exact number of calories in a single ear of corn on the cob isn't a one-size-fits-all answer. The final total is heavily influenced by factors such as the corn's size and how it is prepared and served. At its core, without any additions, corn is a nutritious and relatively low-calorie food. It is naturally low in fat and packed with dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals that support overall health.

Nutritional Breakdown by Size

To provide a more accurate calorie estimate, it's helpful to break it down by the size of the ear. The following figures are for sweet corn cooked without any added ingredients:

Small Ear (approx. 5-6 inches): About 63 calories.
Medium Ear (approx. 6-7.5 inches): Around 88 to 99 calories.
Large Ear (approx. 7.5-9 inches): Roughly 123 calories.

This variation demonstrates that a larger ear of corn can contain significantly more calories than a smaller one, a detail that is important for those closely monitoring their intake. The majority of these calories come from carbohydrates, but corn also provides a decent amount of protein and fiber for its size.

How Preparation Affects Calories

While plain corn is a healthy option, the method of preparation can drastically alter the calorie count. Adding butter, oil, or salt is a common practice, but it increases the total caloric load. For example, a single tablespoon of butter adds over 100 calories, more than doubling the calorie count of a medium ear of corn.

Common Preparation Methods:

Boiling/Steaming: This method adds no extra calories or fat, keeping the corn as close to its natural state as possible. Some water-soluble vitamins might be lost during boiling, but the overall calorie count is unchanged.
Grilling/Roasting: Cooking corn over heat, either wrapped in foil or directly on the grill, does not significantly change the calorie count, assuming no oil or butter is used. It can even enhance its flavor naturally.
Frying: Pan-frying corn kernels in oil will increase the calorie and fat content substantially. This method is often used for off-the-cob kernels, and the added oil must be factored into the nutritional calculations.

Comparison Table: Corn on the Cob Calories


Preparation Method	Serving Size	Approximate Calories	Additional Calories/Fat	Notes
Plain, Boiled	1 Medium Ear	88-99	None	Baseline for comparison
Boiled with 1 Tbsp Butter	1 Medium Ear	190-200+	+100+ calories, +11g fat	Significant increase due to butter
Plain, Large Ear (Grilled)	1 Large Ear	123	None	Larger serving, higher base calories
Roasted with 1 tsp Olive Oil	1 Medium Ear	~130	+40 calories, +4.5g fat	Moderate increase
Corn Salad (1/2 cup kernels)	~1/2 Medium Ear	77-100	Varies	Depends on dressing and other ingredients

Health Benefits of Eating Corn

Beyond its low-calorie status, corn provides several health benefits that make it a valuable addition to a balanced diet. Corn is rich in fiber, which is crucial for digestive health, and contains antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin that are beneficial for eye health. It also provides essential B vitamins, magnesium, and potassium, which support energy metabolism, nerve function, and heart health. The complex carbohydrates in corn offer a steady release of energy, which can help promote feelings of fullness and support weight management when consumed in moderation.

Low-Calorie Topping Alternatives

If you want to enjoy corn on the cob without piling on extra calories from butter, there are several delicious and healthy alternatives. Experimenting with different seasonings and herbs can add plenty of flavor without the added fat.

Spices: Sprinkle with chili powder, paprika, or cumin for a smoky, spicy kick.
Herbs: Use fresh or dried herbs like cilantro, parsley, or dill for a fresh, aromatic flavor.
Citrus: A squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice adds a zesty, bright flavor that complements the corn's sweetness.
Greek Yogurt: A dollop of plain Greek yogurt mixed with a little garlic powder and dill can be a creamy, lower-calorie substitute for butter.
Nutritional Yeast: This provides a cheesy, savory flavor for a fraction of the calories found in actual cheese.
Hot Sauce: For those who like heat, a drizzle of hot sauce can add flavor without calories.

Conclusion

So, how many calories are in 1 corn on the cob? The answer is that a medium ear of plain, cooked sweet corn contains approximately 88 to 99 calories, but the final number is highly dependent on size and preparation. Enjoying corn in its natural state, or with low-calorie flavorings, is a nutritious way to incorporate this popular starchy vegetable into a healthy eating plan. By being mindful of toppings, you can enjoy all the taste and health benefits without excess calories.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, boiling corn on the cob in plain water does not add any calories. The calorie count remains the same as the raw corn, though some water-soluble vitamins might be lost in the process.

A large ear of sweet corn, approximately 7.5 to 9 inches long, contains about 123 calories before any toppings are added.

Yes, corn can be good for weight loss when eaten in moderation as part of a balanced diet. It's relatively low in calories and fat, while the fiber and protein content can help you feel full.

Yes, frozen and low-sodium canned corn can be healthy, convenient alternatives to fresh corn. Flash-freezing helps lock in nutrients, and studies have shown frozen corn can retain more vitamin C than refrigerated corn.

For a lower-calorie, flavorful alternative to butter, try seasoning your corn with spices like chili powder, a squeeze of fresh lime juice, or a light sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste.

One tablespoon of butter contains over 100 calories, which can more than double the calorie count of a medium ear of plain corn on the cob.

Corn can be considered both. When it is fresh, like corn on the cob, it is a starchy vegetable. When it is dried, like popcorn, it is a whole grain. Both forms, when minimally processed, can be part of a healthy diet.