How many calories are in a small size flour tortilla?

October 24, 2025 •

3 min read

Small flour tortillas, typically 6 inches in diameter, contain between 80 to 110 calories, though the exact number can vary significantly by brand and ingredient list. This variation is due to differences in flour type, fat content (like vegetable shortening), and additives used by manufacturers, all of which affect the final calorie count. Understanding how many calories are in a small size flour tortilla is the first step toward incorporating them into a balanced diet.

Quick Summary

The calorie count for a small flour tortilla ranges from 80 to 110, contingent on brand and formulation. This guide details the nutritional breakdown and compares it to other tortilla types like whole wheat and corn. It helps readers understand factors affecting calories and provides tips for incorporating tortillas into a healthy eating plan. The article highlights how size, ingredients, and preparation methods influence overall caloric impact.

Key Points

Variable Calorie Count: A small, 6-inch flour tortilla can contain between 80 to 110 calories, depending on the brand and recipe.
Ingredient Impact: The calorie count is heavily influenced by the type and amount of fat, like vegetable shortening or lard, used in the dough.
Size Matters: Calorie totals increase significantly with tortilla size, with a 12-inch burrito-style tortilla containing up to 355 calories.
Preparation Method: Cooking a tortilla on a dry pan is the lowest-calorie method, while frying it will add substantial fat and calories.
Corn vs. Flour: Corn tortillas are typically a lower-calorie alternative, offering 50-70 calories for a 6-inch serving, compared to the higher range of a flour tortilla.
Healthy Fillings: The total calorie count of your meal is determined more by the fillings and toppings than the tortilla itself. Focus on lean proteins and vegetables.
Read the Label: The most accurate way to know a specific tortilla's calorie count is to check the nutritional information on the packaging.

Decoding the Calories in a Small Flour Tortilla

While a definitive answer for the calories in a small flour tortilla isn't a single number, understanding the range and influencing factors is key for anyone watching their intake. The typical serving size for a 'small' flour tortilla is often considered a 6-inch diameter, but this can vary. Depending on the brand and thickness, a small flour tortilla can contain anywhere from 80 to 110 calories. This fluctuation is a result of variations in manufacturing processes and ingredients, particularly the type and amount of fat used, such as vegetable shortening or lard.

Nutritional Breakdown and Key Differences

Beyond the calorie count, the overall nutritional profile of a small flour tortilla includes carbohydrates, protein, and fat. For example, a typical 6-inch tortilla may contain around 15 to 18 grams of carbohydrates, 2 to 3 grams of protein, and 2 to 4 grams of fat. Some enriched varieties may also include fortified vitamins and minerals, such as iron. The higher calorie count in traditional flour tortillas compared to corn varieties is often attributed to the fat content used to make them soft and pliable. Whole wheat alternatives, while often having similar calorie ranges, provide more dietary fiber.

The Impact of Size and Preparation

It is easy to underestimate the calories in a meal that includes tortillas, especially if you use more than one or add rich fillings. The size difference alone can have a huge impact. Consider how calories scale with size:

4-inch (mini): ~41 calories
6-inch (small): ~80-110 calories
8-inch (medium): ~145-160 calories
10-inch (large): ~190-220 calories
12-inch (burrito): ~240-355+ calories

Preparation methods also drastically alter the final calorie count. Frying a tortilla to make a crispy shell or adding oil to the pan increases fat and calories. Conversely, heating it plain on a dry pan keeps the calories minimal. The fillings added, such as cheese, sour cream, and meat, will ultimately contribute the most to the total calories of your meal.

Comparison of Tortilla Types

To put the small flour tortilla's calories into perspective, here is a comparison with other common tortilla types. These are approximate values for a 6-inch size, based on different sources.


Tortilla Type	Approximate Calories (6-inch)	Key Nutritional Differentiators
Flour	80–110 kcal	Higher fat content, soft and pliable texture.
Whole Wheat	80–140 kcal	Higher fiber content, similar calories to flour.
Corn	50–70 kcal	Lower in calories and fat, naturally gluten-free.
Low-Carb	40–70 kcal	Lowest carbs, often higher fiber, varies by brand.

Choosing the Right Tortilla for Your Goals

For weight management or calorie-controlled diets, opting for a smaller tortilla is a simple way to reduce calories. Substituting a traditional flour tortilla with a whole wheat or corn variety can also be a strategic move. For example, a 6-inch corn tortilla can save you 30-40 calories per serving compared to a similar-sized flour one. Portion size awareness is the most critical factor. Instead of a single large burrito, consider two smaller tacos to control caloric intake without feeling deprived. You can also prioritize healthy fillings like lean protein and plenty of vegetables to maximize nutritional value for each calorie consumed.

The Role of Calories in Meal Planning

Calories are a measure of energy, and the number you consume must be balanced with the number you expend to maintain a healthy weight. A small flour tortilla provides a moderate amount of energy, making it a good base for a light meal or snack. For a healthy diet, it's recommended to view the tortilla as a component rather than the primary focus. Focus on nutrient-dense fillings and toppings to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal. For more nutritional information on various foods, consult reliable sources such as the USDA National Nutrient Database.

Conclusion

On average, a small size flour tortilla (6-inch) contains approximately 80 to 110 calories. However, brands and recipes vary, so checking the nutritional label is always the best approach for accuracy. Factors like brand, thickness, and preparation method all contribute to the final calorie count. By being mindful of these variables and comparing them with other types of tortillas, you can make smarter food choices that align with your health and dietary goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Generally, corn tortillas are considered healthier because they contain fewer calories, less fat, and are a good source of fiber, not to mention they are naturally gluten-free.

To reduce calories, you can choose smaller corn or whole wheat tortillas, use non-stick cooking spray instead of oil or butter, and fill them with lean meats, beans, and vegetables rather than high-fat ingredients like cheese and sour cream.

While the calorie counts can be similar, whole wheat tortillas often have slightly fewer calories per gram and offer more dietary fiber. This difference is usually not as significant as the one between flour and corn tortillas.

No, simply warming a tortilla on a dry pan or in a microwave does not add calories. However, cooking with oil or butter will increase the calorie count.

A small flour tortilla is typically defined by a 6-inch diameter.

While traditional flour tortillas are higher in carbs, many brands now offer low-carb or keto-friendly alternatives. Always check the nutrition label for specific carbohydrate counts.

The calorie count of a homemade tortilla depends on your recipe and ingredients. They can be lower in calories if made with less fat and controlled ingredients, but might be higher if using liberal amounts of oil or lard.