How Many Calories Are in a Boiled Ear of Corn? A Complete Nutritional Breakdown

November 22, 2025 •

3 min read

A medium-sized boiled ear of sweet corn typically contains approximately 88 to 99 calories, a surprisingly modest number for a filling and satisfying vegetable. This makes understanding how many calories are in a boiled ear of corn relatively straightforward, but the final calorie count can change dramatically depending on added ingredients and the cob's size.

Quick Summary

A plain, medium-sized boiled ear of corn contains around 88-99 calories, a total that is largely influenced by its size and preparation. Calorie count increases with the addition of toppings like butter, which are easy to overestimate. Corn is also a good source of fiber, vitamins, and other nutrients.

Key Points

Calorie Variation: A boiled ear of corn's calorie count depends on its size, ranging from approximately 63 calories for a small ear to 123 for a large one.
Plain vs. Toppings: The plain, boiled vegetable is low in calories; toppings like butter and cheese significantly increase the final tally.
Nutrition Source: Most calories in corn come from carbohydrates, but it also contains fiber, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals.
Healthy Alternatives: Use low-calorie flavor enhancers such as chili powder, lime juice, or fresh herbs instead of high-fat butter.
Cooking Method Impact: Boiling does not add calories to corn, but other preparation methods that use fat, like pan-frying, will.

The Calorie Breakdown of a Boiled Ear of Corn

The number of calories in a boiled ear of corn is not a fixed figure but varies based on size. The USDA provides standardized data that can help provide a clear picture. A plain, boiled, medium-sized yellow ear of corn is the most common reference point. Here is a general breakdown:

Small ear (approx. 5.5-6.5 inches): Around 63 to 86 calories.
Medium ear (approx. 6.75-7.5 inches): Around 88 to 99 calories.
Large ear (approx. 7.75-9 inches): Around 123 calories.

The majority of the calories in plain corn come from carbohydrates, specifically natural sugars and starches. The boiling process does not significantly alter the inherent calorie content of the corn kernels themselves, unlike frying or grilling with oil.

The Impact of Added Ingredients

While the corn itself is relatively low in calories, the standard way it is served often involves high-calorie toppings that dramatically increase the nutritional value. The most common culprit is butter.

Butter: A single teaspoon of butter can add approximately 36 calories, and many people use more than a single teaspoon. A generous tablespoon can add over 100 calories. Adding butter and salt to a medium ear of corn can easily push the total calorie count well over 150.
Other Toppings: Seasonings like salt, pepper, or chili powder add negligible calories. However, cheese, mayonnaise, and oils can also increase the calorie count significantly. For example, popular Mexican street corn preparations, or elote, often use mayo, cotija cheese, and other fatty additions.

Comparison of Corn Preparation Methods


Preparation Method	Key Characteristics	Estimated Calories (Medium Ear)	Notes
Boiled (Plain)	Cooked in water, no additions.	88–99 kcal	The standard, low-calorie option.
Boiled with Butter	Standard butter added during or after cooking.	125–200+ kcal	A very common preparation that significantly raises calories due to butter.
Grilled	Cooked over direct heat, no oil added.	88–99 kcal	Similar to boiled corn, but with a different flavor profile.
Grilled with Oil/Butter	Basted with oil or butter while grilling.	125–200+ kcal	Like boiled corn with butter, toppings increase the count.
Creamed Corn (Homemade)	Made with milk, cream, and butter.	High	Calorie content varies widely based on ingredients used.

Health Benefits Beyond the Calories

Despite being a starchy vegetable, corn provides numerous health benefits.

Fiber: Corn is a good source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and can help you feel full longer. A medium ear contains about 2-3 grams of fiber.
Antioxidants: It contains powerful antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which are particularly beneficial for eye health.
Vitamins and Minerals: Corn is a source of essential nutrients including vitamin C, B vitamins (like thiamin and niacin), magnesium, and potassium.

Tips for Enjoying Boiled Corn Healthfully

If you are watching your calorie intake but don't want to sacrifice flavor, consider these alternatives to butter and heavy sauces.

Flavorful, Low-Calorie Additions

Lime Juice and Chili Powder: For a zesty, spicy kick without the extra fat and calories.
Fresh Herbs: Finely chopped cilantro, parsley, or chives can add a burst of freshness.
Garlic Powder and Smoked Paprika: A sprinkle of these spices can provide a savory, smoky taste.
Nutritional Yeast: This cheesy-tasting powder is a good source of vitamins and adds a savory, nutty flavor without the dairy or fat.
A Light Vinaigrette: A drizzle of a light, acidic dressing can offer a tangy alternative to butter.

Conclusion

In its simplest form, a boiled ear of corn is a healthy, low-calorie addition to any meal. A medium ear has fewer than 100 calories, a value that is primarily derived from its carbohydrate content. The true key to keeping this snack healthy lies in mindful preparation. By being aware of how toppings like butter and oil increase the calorie count, you can make informed choices to enjoy corn's natural sweetness and nutritional benefits while sticking to your dietary goals. For more detailed nutrition information, a reliable source like Healthline can provide additional insights into the nutrient profile of corn.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, boiling corn does not add calories. However, some water-soluble vitamins might be lost during the boiling process.

A single teaspoon of butter can add about 36 calories, so a tablespoon (3 teaspoons) adds around 108 calories, significantly increasing the total.

Yes, a medium ear of boiled corn contains about 2 to 3 grams of dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health.

Yes, corn contains antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which are known to support and protect eye health.

Yes, people with diabetes can eat boiled corn in moderation. It is considered a starchy vegetable, and it is important to monitor portion sizes to manage blood sugar levels.

The inherent calorie count of boiled corn is similar to grilled corn, assuming no additional fat or oil is used in either preparation method.

You can use a variety of healthy alternatives, including lime juice with chili powder, fresh herbs, or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.