How many calories are in a small piece of brie cheese?

December 7, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the USDA, a standard one-ounce serving of brie cheese contains approximately 95 calories. This article breaks down the nutritional content to explain how many calories are in a small piece of brie cheese and how different portion sizes affect your total intake.

Quick Summary

A typical small piece of brie cheese, such as a 1-inch cube, contains around 57 calories, with the majority from fat. Its calorie count varies depending on the specific serving size. The cheese also provides a good source of protein, calcium, and vitamin B12.

Key Points

1-Inch Cube: A small, 1-inch cube of brie contains approximately 57 calories.
Standard Serving: A standard one-ounce (28-gram) serving has about 95 calories.
High-Fat Content: Most of brie's calories come from its rich fat content.
Nutrient-Dense: Despite its calories, brie offers valuable protein, calcium, and vitamins B12 and A.
Moderation is Key: Due to its caloric density and sodium levels, it's best enjoyed in moderation.
Baked vs. Plain: Baking brie or adding accompaniments like pastry, jam, or nuts significantly increases the calorie count.

Understanding Brie Cheese Portions

While a 'small piece' can be subjective, standard nutrition data typically refers to a one-ounce (28-gram) serving or a one-cubic-inch portion. Being mindful of these measurements is key to accurately determining the calories in your cheese. Brie is a soft, creamy cheese with an edible rind and a rich, buttery flavor. Its high fat content is primarily responsible for its calorie density, even in small amounts.

Calories in a 1-Inch Cube of Brie

For a truly small, bite-sized portion, a one-cubic-inch cube is a helpful benchmark. According to USDA data, one cubic inch of brie cheese (approximately 17 grams) contains about 57 calories. This portion size is convenient for controlling calorie intake, especially when serving brie on a cheese board or as an appetizer. A breakdown of this portion reveals its high-fat nature:

Total Fat: 4.71g
Protein: 3.53g
Carbohydrates: 0.08g

Calories in a Standard 1-Ounce Serving

A slightly larger and more commonly referenced portion is the standard one-ounce (28-gram) serving. This amount is about the size of an average thumb. A single ounce of brie contains approximately 95 calories. While the calorie count is higher than the cubic inch, the nutritional benefits also increase. A one-ounce serving offers a significant amount of protein and other essential vitamins.

The Effect of Preparation on Calories

The method of preparation can significantly alter the overall calorie count. Plain brie is a solid choice, but baked brie or brie served with accompaniments will dramatically increase the caloric density.

Plain Brie: The calorie count is confined to the cheese itself, making it easier to control portions.
Baked Brie: When brie is baked, it's often wrapped in puff pastry. This adds a substantial number of calories from flour and butter. For example, one recipe for baked brie in puff pastry can add over 100 calories per serving.
Accompaniments: Crackers, honey, nuts, and jams are common pairings. Each addition contributes to the total calorie count. For instance, a handful of nuts or a drizzle of honey can add 50-100 calories or more to a single serving.

How Brie Compares to Other Cheeses

To put the calorie count into context, let's compare a one-ounce serving of brie to other popular cheeses. This comparison highlights the differences in fat and moisture content that influence calorie levels.


Cheese	Serving Size	Approximate Calories	Approximate Fat (g)	Approximate Protein (g)
Brie	1 oz (28g)	95	7.9	5.9
Cheddar	1 oz (28g)	113	~9	~7
Mozzarella (part-skim)	1 oz (28g)	71	~5	~6
Feta	1 oz (28g)	86	~7	~4

As the table shows, brie falls in the middle range of calorie density compared to other common cheeses, with softer, part-skim mozzarella being lower and harder, aged cheddar being higher.

Brie's Other Nutritional Perks

Beyond just calories, brie offers other nutritional benefits that make it a worthy addition to a balanced diet.

Rich in Protein: A one-ounce serving offers nearly 6 grams of high-quality protein, which helps with muscle maintenance and can promote feelings of fullness.
Source of Vitamins and Minerals: Brie contains important nutrients like vitamin A, B12, and riboflavin, which support energy production, vision, and immune function.
High in Calcium: It is a good source of calcium, vital for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
Probiotics: As an aged cheese, brie can also contain probiotics that contribute to a healthy gut microbiome.

Conclusion

So, how many calories are in a small piece of brie cheese? The short answer is that it varies, but a bite-sized 1-inch cube has about 57 calories, and a standard one-ounce serving contains roughly 95 calories. While brie is a delicious and nutrient-rich cheese, its high-fat and sodium content means it should be consumed in moderation, especially if you are monitoring your calorie intake. For more in-depth nutritional information on brie, you can consult reliable sources like the Healthline article on the topic. By being mindful of your portion size and preparation method, you can enjoy brie as a satisfying and flavorful part of a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

A 'small piece' of brie can be defined in different ways. A 1-inch cube is approximately 17 grams, while a standard one-ounce serving is 28 grams.

Brie can be part of a healthy diet when eaten in moderation. It is a good source of protein, calcium, and vitamins but is also high in fat and calories. Its nutrients support bone health and energy levels.

Yes, the edible white rind is part of the cheese and contains calories, though the amount is included in the overall nutritional data for the cheese as a whole. It is a form of mold and is safe to consume.

Baking brie, especially in puff pastry or with high-calorie toppings like jam and nuts, significantly increases the total calorie count. Always factor in these additions when tracking your intake.

Brie contains a moderate amount of sodium. A one-ounce serving provides approximately 178mg of sodium, which is about 8% of the Daily Value. People monitoring their sodium intake should be mindful of portion sizes.

Yes, brie is very low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb or ketogenic diets. The key is to consume it in moderation due to its high-fat and calorie content.

Yes, brie is a good source of high-quality protein. A one-ounce serving provides nearly 6 grams of protein, which contributes to feelings of fullness and supports muscle health.