Skip to content

How Many Calories Are in 2 Tortillas? A Detailed Breakdown

4 min read

The calorie count for two tortillas can range from as low as 70 for mini corn tortillas to over 300 for large flour varieties. This wide range depends on the type, size, and brand, making it crucial to look beyond a single number for accurate dietary planning.

Quick Summary

The number of calories in two tortillas varies significantly based on their type, size, and preparation. Corn tortillas are typically lower in calories than flour, while preparation methods like deep-frying substantially increase the overall fat and calorie count.

Key Points

  • Calorie Variation: The number of calories in two tortillas varies significantly based on type (corn vs. flour) and size, ranging from around 70 to over 300 calories.

  • Corn is Lower in Calories: Two medium corn tortillas typically contain 105–115 calories, making them a generally lighter choice compared to flour.

  • Flour is Higher in Fat: Flour tortillas often have more calories due to added fats like shortening or lard, with a pair of large ones containing up to 297 calories.

  • Preparation Method Matters: Frying tortillas adds substantial fat and calories, whereas heating them on a dry pan keeps the calorie count minimal.

  • Size is Crucial: Selecting smaller tortillas, such as mini or small sizes, is an effective way to control portion sizes and reduce overall calorie intake.

  • Check the Label: Always read the nutrition facts, as specific brands and ingredients can alter the calorie, fat, and sodium content.

In This Article

Understanding the calorie content of tortillas is essential for anyone tracking their dietary intake, but the answer is not a simple number. The calorie count for two tortillas can vary dramatically based on the primary ingredient (corn or flour), the size of the tortilla, and how it is prepared. By examining these factors, you can make informed choices to align with your health and dietary goals.

Corn vs. Flour Tortillas: A Calorie Face-Off

The most significant factor influencing a tortilla's calorie count is whether it is made from corn or flour. The difference is primarily due to the fat content, as flour tortillas often contain added shortening or lard, whereas traditional corn tortillas are made with just corn, lime, and water.

Calories in Corn Tortillas

Corn tortillas are generally the lower-calorie option and are often considered a healthier choice due to their whole-grain content. The calories for two corn tortillas will depend on their size:

  • Mini Corn Tortillas: A serving of two mini corn tortillas from brands like Tortilleria Siempre Frescas contains approximately 70 calories.
  • Small Corn Tortillas: Two small corn tortillas, such as those from Mission Foods, can have around 100 to 105 calories.
  • Medium Corn Tortillas: For two medium corn tortillas, the calorie count can be around 105 to 115, especially for varieties without added salt.

Calories in Flour Tortillas

Flour tortillas, especially larger ones, tend to pack a more significant calorie punch. The added fats during the production process contribute to this higher energy density.

  • Small Flour Tortillas: Two small flour tortillas contain roughly 176 calories.
  • Medium Flour Tortillas: A pair of medium flour tortillas can range from 187 to 260 calories depending on the brand and specific recipe. Walmart's medium flour tortillas (Mission brand) total around 240 calories for two.
  • Large Flour Tortillas: For two large flour tortillas, the calorie count can reach around 297 calories.

The Impact of Size and Preparation on Tortilla Calories

While the base ingredient is a major factor, size is equally important. It is easy to see that a couple of mini corn tortillas contain less than a quarter of the calories of two large flour tortillas. Additionally, preparation method plays a crucial role. Deep-frying a corn tortilla, for example, can increase its calories by more than double, taking it from roughly 62 calories to over 100-150 calories for a single tortilla.

Tortilla Calorie Comparison by Type and Size

Tortilla Type & Size Approx. Calories (per 2 tortillas) Approx. Carbs (per 2 tortillas) Approx. Fat (per 2 tortillas)
Mini Corn 70 20g 1g
Medium Corn 105–115 21–24g 1–1.3g
Small Flour 176 31g 4g
Medium Flour 187–260 34–42g 6–9g
Large Flour 297 54g 7.8g

How to Make Healthier Choices with Tortillas

For those mindful of their caloric intake, opting for corn tortillas is often the better choice. However, flour tortillas can still be part of a balanced diet by selecting smaller sizes and focusing on preparation. Here are some tips for enjoying tortillas healthily:

  • Choose the right type: Opt for corn tortillas over flour, as they have fewer calories and more fiber.
  • Go for whole wheat: If you prefer flour tortillas, choose whole wheat versions, which offer more fiber and nutrients.
  • Mind your portions: Stick to smaller tortillas. A mini or small size can satisfy your craving with a fraction of the calories of a large burrito-sized tortilla.
  • Heat, don't fry: Instead of frying tortillas in oil, heat them in a dry pan or microwave to keep the calorie count down.
  • Focus on healthy fillings: Fill your tortillas with lean proteins, lots of vegetables, and minimal high-fat ingredients to keep the meal balanced.

The Nutritional Profile of Tortillas

Beyond just calories, corn and flour tortillas have different nutritional profiles. Corn tortillas, for instance, often contain more fiber, which is beneficial for digestion and can help manage blood sugar levels. Flour tortillas, particularly enriched versions, may be fortified with nutrients like iron.

  • Fiber: Corn tortillas generally contain more dietary fiber, which promotes digestive health.
  • Iron: Flour tortillas, especially those made with enriched white flour, can be a source of iron, an important mineral for oxygen transport in the body.
  • Sodium: The sodium content can vary significantly by brand and type. Always check the nutrition label, as some brands add more salt during processing.
  • Ingredients: Be aware of the ingredients, especially with flour tortillas, which can contain higher amounts of saturated fats from shortening or lard.

For a more in-depth nutritional comparison, refer to this guide on corn versus flour tortillas: Corn vs Flour Tortilla | Nutritional & Calorie Differences.

Conclusion

The calories in two tortillas are not fixed and depend heavily on the type, size, and preparation. Two small corn tortillas can contain as few as 70-105 calories, making them a light and fiber-rich option. Conversely, two large flour tortillas can exceed 300 calories due to higher fat and carbohydrate content. By understanding these variations and making conscious choices, such as opting for smaller, corn-based, and pan-heated tortillas, you can easily incorporate them into a healthy diet without derailing your calorie goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Corn tortillas are generally considered a healthier option because they are lower in calories and fat while offering more dietary fiber. However, enriched flour tortillas can be a better source of iron.

To reduce calories, choose smaller corn tortillas, avoid frying them, and opt for healthy, low-calorie fillings like lean protein, beans, and plenty of vegetables.

No, simply heating a tortilla in a dry pan, oven, or microwave does not add any calories. However, frying it in oil or adding butter will significantly increase the total calorie count.

Two medium corn tortillas typically contain between 105 and 115 calories, depending on the brand and if any salt or oil was added during preparation.

Two medium flour tortillas can range from approximately 187 to 260 calories, based on the specific brand and the amount of fat used in the recipe.

The calorie difference is substantial. Two small flour tortillas have about 176 calories, while two large flour tortillas can have around 297 calories.

Not necessarily. Whole wheat tortillas often have a similar calorie count to regular flour tortillas of the same size. Their main advantage is higher fiber content and more nutrients, which can make them a healthier choice.

Yes, deep-frying significantly increases the calorie count. For example, a corn tortilla can double its calories after deep-frying, as it absorbs the oil.

References

  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3
  4. 4
  5. 5
  6. 6
  7. 7

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.