How Many Calories Are in 2 Cukes? A Complete Nutritional Breakdown

December 21, 2025 •

4 min read

An entire 11-ounce (300-gram) unpeeled cucumber contains approximately 45 calories. This low energy density is a key reason many people ask, "How many calories are in 2 cukes?" as they are a popular snack for those watching their weight.

Quick Summary

The calorie count for two cucumbers depends on their size and if they are peeled. Two medium, peeled cucumbers have around 48 calories, while two large, peeled ones contain approximately 67 calories. Unpeeled cucumbers typically have slightly higher fiber and nutrients.

Key Points

Low Calorie: Two medium, peeled cucumbers have around 48 calories, while two whole, unpeeled ones contain approximately 90 calories.
High in Water: Cucumbers are about 95-96% water, making them incredibly hydrating and great for feeling full on a low-calorie diet.
Nutrient-Dense Skin: For maximum nutrients and fiber, eat the cucumber with the peel on, as it contains extra vitamins like K and antioxidants.
Versatile for Weight Management: Their low energy density makes cucumbers ideal for adding volume and crunch to meals, salads, or snacks without adding significant calories.
Supports Digestion and Health: The combination of water and fiber aids in healthy digestion, while antioxidants help combat cellular damage.

Calorie Count for 2 Cucumbers: Peeled vs. Unpeeled

The number of calories in two cucumbers varies based on their size and whether the peel is removed, which affects both the weight and fiber content. As a rule of thumb, cucumbers are extremely low in calories, with a high water content of around 95%. This makes them an excellent food for weight management, as they can fill you up with minimal caloric intake.

Two Medium Peeled Cucumbers

For two medium-sized, peeled, raw cucumbers, the calorie count is approximately 48 calories. This is because the peel, which contains a small amount of additional fiber, has been removed. A macronutrient breakdown for this serving shows:

Carbohydrates: 9g (69% of calories)
Fat: 1g (12% of calories)
Protein: 2g (19% of calories)

This makes them a great, low-impact snack that provides a hydrating crunch without a heavy calorie load.

Two Large Peeled Cucumbers

If you opt for two large, peeled cucumbers, the calorie count increases slightly to around 67 calories. Again, the peel is removed in this calculation. The nutritional profile for this larger portion is also slightly higher:

Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 3g

The extra size naturally means more overall nutrients, though the concentration remains low, consistent with cucumber's high water content.

Two Unpeeled Cucumbers

Leaving the skin on maximizes the cucumber's nutritional value. For two whole, raw cucumbers with the peel still on, the calorie count is about 90 calories. The peel contributes a valuable amount of fiber and antioxidants, which is beneficial for digestion and overall health.

Here are some of the added benefits of including the peel:

More Fiber: The peel significantly boosts the fiber content, which aids in digestive health and promotes feelings of fullness.
Rich in Nutrients: Cucumber skin is a source of beta-carotene, which is converted to Vitamin A in the body, and other antioxidants.
Enhanced Flavor: The peel adds a more robust and sometimes slightly bitter flavor profile to the cucumber.

Comparison Table: Calorie Breakdown by Cucumber Preparation


Preparation	Calories	Carbohydrates	Fiber	Water Content	Note
Two Medium, Peeled	~48 kcal	~9g	~3g	~95%	Lower fiber due to peel removal.
Two Large, Peeled	~67 kcal	~12g	~4g	~95%	More calories and nutrients due to size.
Two Whole, Unpeeled	~90 kcal	~22g	~3g	~96%	Maximize nutrients and fiber by keeping the peel.

Beyond Calories: Why Cucumbers are a Healthy Choice

While the low-calorie count of cucumbers is a major draw, their health benefits extend far beyond just weight management. The high water and fiber content provides numerous advantages, and they are also a source of important vitamins and minerals.

Excellent for Hydration

At roughly 95-96% water, cucumbers are one of the most hydrating foods available. Staying adequately hydrated is crucial for many bodily functions, including digestion, regulating body temperature, and keeping organs functioning properly. For individuals who struggle to drink enough water, incorporating water-rich foods like cucumbers can make a significant difference in overall hydration levels.

A Source of Key Nutrients

Cucumbers, especially when eaten with the peel, contain beneficial vitamins and minerals. A single medium unpeeled cucumber can provide a good portion of your daily Vitamin K needs, which is vital for blood clotting and bone health. They also contain smaller amounts of Vitamin C, Potassium, and Magnesium.

Rich in Antioxidants

Cucumbers contain beneficial plant compounds called antioxidants, including flavonoids, lignans, and triterpenes. These compounds help fight against free radicals in the body, which can cause cellular damage and contribute to chronic diseases. Some research suggests these antioxidants have potential anti-cancer properties and can help reduce inflammation.

Supports Digestive Health

With both high water content and a moderate amount of fiber, cucumbers promote healthy bowel movements and help prevent constipation. Pectin, a type of soluble fiber found in cucumbers, can increase the frequency of bowel movements. For digestive comfort, it is recommended to consume cucumbers in moderation to avoid gas or bloating.

Conclusion

In summary, the calorie count for 2 cukes is remarkably low, especially considering the volume of food. Two medium, peeled cucumbers offer about 48 calories, two large peeled ones around 67 calories, and two unpeeled, whole cucumbers contain roughly 90 calories. Their nutritional value and high water content make them an excellent addition to almost any diet, supporting hydration, digestion, and overall health. Whether eaten raw in a salad, as a snack with a healthy dip, or infused in water, cucumbers are a smart choice for maintaining a healthy lifestyle without compromising on flavor or crunch.

For more information on the health benefits of cucumbers, explore resources from reputable health and nutrition sites such as WebMD.

Note: All calorie and nutrient data are approximate and can vary based on cucumber size and specific variety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, peeling a cucumber removes a portion of its fiber, Vitamin K, and other antioxidants that are concentrated in the skin. While still healthy, unpeeled cucumbers offer slightly more nutritional benefits.

While there can be slight variations, the difference is negligible. English cucumbers are typically long and thin with fewer seeds, but the calorie and nutrient content per weight is comparable to regular garden cucumbers.

Yes. Cucumbers are high in water and low in calories, making them a great food for weight loss. They can help you feel full without consuming excess calories. However, they are best incorporated into a balanced diet, not as part of a restrictive, cucumber-only diet.

No, this is a myth. While cucumbers are very low in calories, consuming them still provides more energy than the body uses to digest them. Their value in weight management comes from being a filling, low-calorie option, not from magically burning more calories than they provide.

You can add cucumber slices to salads, sandwiches, and wraps for extra crunch. They also work well in smoothies, infused water, or as a simple snack with dips like hummus or yogurt.

Botanically, cucumbers are fruits because they grow from flowers and contain seeds. However, in a culinary context, they are most often classified and used as vegetables.

Yes, cucumbers are a great late-night snack due to their high water content and low calories. However, some people might experience bloating if they eat a large quantity before bed, so it is best to be mindful of your body's reaction.