How many calories are in 45g of tortillas?

November 22, 2025 •

4 min read

A 45g flour tortilla typically contains approximately 132-138 calories, whereas a corn tortilla of the same weight has significantly fewer, often around 60 calories. This stark contrast highlights why knowing how many calories are in 45g of tortillas is crucial for accurate dietary planning and management, particularly when considering the ingredients and preparation methods involved.

Quick Summary

The calorie count for a 45g serving of tortillas varies widely depending on whether it is made from flour or corn, with flour-based options containing more calories and fat. Other nutritional factors, like fiber content and gluten, also differ significantly between types. Cooking method, brand, and size variations further impact the final calorie total.

Key Points

Flour Tortilla Calories: A 45g flour tortilla typically contains 132-138 calories, making it a more calorie-dense choice than corn tortillas.
Corn Tortilla Calories: A 45g corn tortilla contains significantly fewer calories, around 60 kcal, due to a simpler, low-fat ingredient list.
Macronutrient Differences: Flour tortillas are higher in fat from added shortening, while corn tortillas offer more fiber per comparable weight.
Gluten and Fiber: Corn tortillas are a naturally gluten-free and higher-fiber option, contrasting with standard wheat flour tortillas.
Impact of Preparation: Deep-frying will dramatically increase the calorie count of any tortilla type by adding substantial amounts of fat.
Brand Variations: The nutritional content varies by brand and ingredient list, so checking the nutrition label on the packaging is essential.
Beyond Type: Calorie counts are also affected by size and the types of fillings chosen for your meal.

The calorie content of 45g of tortillas is not a single number but depends heavily on the type of tortilla you choose. A standard flour tortilla will have a considerably higher calorie count than a corn tortilla of the same weight due to the different ingredients and fats used in their preparation. Understanding this fundamental difference is the first step in making informed choices for your dietary goals, whether you're managing your weight or simply tracking your nutritional intake.

The Calorie Difference: Flour vs. Corn

Flour Tortillas (45g)

Flour tortillas are typically made with wheat flour, water, and fat, such as shortening or lard. It is the addition of this fat that primarily drives up the calorie density. According to nutrition data, a 45g portion of a ready-to-fry or bake flour tortilla contains approximately 132 calories. Other sources report ranges from 134 to 140 calories for a 45g serving, with variation depending on the brand and thickness. For instance, a medium flour tortilla (approx. 15 cm diameter) can contain around 94 calories, while an extra-large 12-inch tortilla can have over 350, demonstrating how much the serving size can alter the overall calorie count.

Corn Tortillas (45g)

Corn tortillas are traditionally a much simpler product, often made from nixtamalized corn dough (masa) and water, with no added fat. This simpler recipe results in a much lower calorie density. A 45g serving of corn tortillas contains significantly fewer calories. While a 28g corn tortilla has around 62 calories, scaling this up suggests a 45g portion would have roughly 60 calories, based on data for a slightly larger 45.3g serving. This is a substantial reduction compared to a flour tortilla of the same weight, making corn tortillas a popular choice for those watching their calorie intake. Furthermore, corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free, which makes them a suitable option for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Beyond Calories: A Nutritional Comparison

Beyond just the raw calorie count, the nutritional profile of flour and corn tortillas provides further insight. Understanding the macronutrient breakdown helps you appreciate the full impact on your diet.

Corn Tortilla Nutrition

Macronutrients: For a typical small corn tortilla (around 28g), the breakdown is roughly 11g carbs, 1-2g fiber, and 1-2g protein. For a 45g serving, these numbers scale up proportionately. The fiber content is notably higher than in many flour varieties of the same size.
Ingredients: Traditional corn tortillas have a very short ingredient list, often just masa (corn), water, and sometimes a bit of lime for nixtamalization. This makes them a great option for those seeking minimally processed foods.

Flour Tortilla Nutrition

Macronutrients: A 45g flour tortilla typically contains around 23g carbohydrates, 3g fat, and 4g protein. The fat content is higher due to the added shortening.
Ingredients: The ingredient list for commercial flour tortillas is often longer, including wheat flour, water, added fats, leavening agents, and preservatives. Some varieties may be fortified with iron, as mentioned in one source.

The Impact of Preparation and Fillings

Another critical factor influencing the final calorie count of your meal is the preparation method. A low-calorie tortilla can easily become high-calorie if prepared incorrectly.

Deep Frying: Deep-frying a tortilla, whether corn or flour, will significantly increase its calorie count by soaking it in oil. A 45g flour tortilla can jump from around 134 calories to 230-304 calories when deep-fried. Similarly, a small corn tortilla can increase from 62 calories to over 100.
Pan-Frying and Baking: Lightly pan-frying or baking the tortillas is a healthier alternative that adds minimal extra fat and calories while still achieving a crispy texture.
Fillings: The calories in a tortilla are only part of the story. The fillings you choose have the most significant impact on the final meal. Opting for lean protein, plenty of vegetables, and moderate amounts of cheese or high-fat ingredients is key for calorie control.

Comparison of 45g Tortillas


Feature	Flour Tortilla (45g)	Corn Tortilla (Approx. 45g)
Approximate Calories	132-138 kcal	~60 kcal
Approximate Fat	3-5g	1-2g
Approximate Carbohydrates	23g	11g
Approximate Protein	4g	1-2g
Approximate Fiber	1-2g	2-3g
Gluten-Free?	No	Yes

Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision

In conclusion, the number of calories in 45g of tortillas is not a fixed figure. A 45g flour tortilla will provide more than double the calories of a 45g corn tortilla due to the added fats in its ingredients. For those prioritizing lower calorie counts or managing gluten intake, corn tortillas are a clear winner. If you need a more pliable tortilla and don't require gluten-free, whole wheat varieties offer more fiber than standard flour tortillas. Always consider the cooking method and the choice of fillings, as these elements can drastically change your meal's overall nutritional profile. Reading the nutritional information on the packaging is the most reliable way to make the best choice for your personal dietary needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

A 45g flour tortilla contains approximately 132-138 calories, while a 45g corn tortilla has roughly 60 calories. This difference is primarily because flour tortillas contain added fat like shortening or lard.

Corn tortillas are generally considered a healthier option. They are lower in calories and fat, offer more fiber, and are naturally gluten-free compared to traditional flour tortillas.

Yes, the cooking method significantly impacts the final calorie count. Deep-frying, for example, can more than double the calories by adding substantial amounts of oil.

A small 6-inch flour tortilla can range from 120-160 calories, while a large 10-inch version can contain 190-210 calories, and extra-large options can exceed 350 calories.

Whole wheat tortillas often have a similar calorie range to white flour tortillas of the same size. However, they are a healthier choice due to their higher dietary fiber content.

For weight loss, prioritize smaller corn tortillas for their lower calorie and fat content, or opt for whole wheat varieties for their satiating fiber. Always check the nutrition label for brand-specific details.

Traditional corn tortillas are primarily made from masa (corn dough), while flour tortillas are made from wheat flour, water, and typically include added fats like shortening or lard.