How many calories are in an average corn tortilla?

December 14, 2025 •

3 min read

According to nutritional data, a single 6-inch corn tortilla contains between 50 and 70 calories. This makes them a popular and naturally gluten-free choice for those monitoring their calorie intake, but the exact number can vary depending on factors like size, thickness, and preparation method.

Quick Summary

The calorie count for a standard corn tortilla is generally low, offering a whole-grain base for many meals. Calorie totals are affected by cooking methods and ingredients. They are also rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them a nutritious part of a balanced diet.

Key Points

Low Calorie Count: An average 6-inch corn tortilla has between 50 and 70 calories.
Preparation Matters: Deep-frying drastically increases the calorie count; warming in a dry pan is a low-fat alternative.
Higher in Fiber: Made from whole corn, they offer more dietary fiber compared to most flour tortillas, aiding digestion.
Naturally Gluten-Free: Corn tortillas are a safe option for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Portion Control: Their smaller size makes them an excellent tool for managing calorie intake.
Nutrient-Rich: The nixtamalization process can increase the bioavailability of minerals like calcium and niacin.

The Calorie Breakdown of a Standard Corn Tortilla

While the 50-70 calorie range for an average corn tortilla is a helpful guideline, understanding the precise nutritional breakdown is key for dietary planning. A typical 6-inch corn tortilla contains around 52 calories. These calories come primarily from carbohydrates, with a small amount from protein and fat.

Factors Influencing Corn Tortilla Calories

Several elements can shift the final calorie count of a corn tortilla. The specific ingredients, especially the type of corn, play a role. The process of nixtamalization, used to create masa dough, can also affect the final nutritional content, enhancing the bioavailability of nutrients like calcium. Cooking methods are another major factor; a warm, soft tortilla has a different nutritional profile than a deep-fried taco shell or chip.

Size and thickness: A small, thin street taco tortilla (around 4-5 inches) will have fewer calories than a standard 6-inch one, while a large, handmade tortilla will have more due to its larger size and masa content.
Added fats: Some commercial brands or home recipes might add a small amount of oil, which can increase the fat and calorie count, though traditional recipes often contain no added fat.
Fillings and toppings: The most significant calorie increase comes from what is added to the tortilla.
Type of corn: There are slight variations between white, yellow, and blue corn tortillas, with some brands noting slight differences in calorie density.

The Nutritional Advantage of Corn Tortillas

Corn tortillas are not just lower in calories than their flour counterparts; they also offer a number of nutritional benefits.

Rich in Fiber: Being made from whole grain corn, they are a good source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes satiety.
Naturally Gluten-Free: They are a safe and delicious alternative to wheat-based products for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.
Enhanced Nutrients: The nixtamalization process boosts the content of certain vitamins and minerals, including calcium and niacin (vitamin B3).
Lower in Sodium: Traditional corn tortillas are very low in sodium.

Corn Tortilla vs. Flour Tortilla Nutritional Comparison

Here is a comparison based on average 6-inch corn and 8-inch flour tortillas.


Nutrient	Average 6-inch Corn Tortilla	Average 8-inch Flour Tortilla
Calories	50-70	120-160
Total Fat	1-2g	3-5g
Saturated Fat	Minimal	1-2g (often with added lard or shortening)
Fiber	2-3g	1-2g
Carbohydrates	10-15g	20-25g
Protein	2-3g	3-4g
Gluten	None (gluten-free)	Yes
Sodium	Very Low	Higher (depending on brand)

Making Healthier Choices with Corn Tortillas

To maximize the health benefits of corn tortillas while keeping calories in check, consider the following:

Use healthy cooking methods: Warm your corn tortillas in a dry pan, on a griddle, or in the microwave instead of frying.
Choose fresh over processed: Making your own or buying fresh ensures a purer product with fewer additives.
Focus on healthy fillings: Pile your tacos with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and salsa instead of high-fat ingredients.
Control portion sizes: Their smaller size helps with portion control.
Look for whole grain varieties: Confirming this on the package ensures maximum fiber and nutrient content.

Conclusion: Corn Tortillas are a Healthy, Low-Calorie Choice

An average corn tortilla contains a modest number of calories, typically ranging from 50 to 70 calories for a 6-inch variety. They are a healthier alternative to flour tortillas due to their lower calorie and fat content, higher fiber, and gluten-free nature. The final calorie count is influenced by how they are prepared and the accompanying fillings, but by using simple, healthy cooking methods and mindful toppings, corn tortillas can be a nutritious and delicious part of a balanced diet for those counting calories. Embracing these authentic, whole-grain flatbreads allows you to enjoy a flavorful meal without compromising your health goals.

Visit a reputable nutritional source for more detailed information on specific brands and varieties

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, in general, corn tortillas are healthier than flour tortillas. They are lower in calories and fat, higher in fiber, and are naturally gluten-free.

A small street taco-sized corn tortilla typically contains fewer calories than a standard 6-inch one, with some brands listing around 30 calories per tortilla.

Yes, frying a corn tortilla significantly increases its calorie count. The oil absorbed during deep-frying can more than double the original calorie total.

For all practical purposes, yellow and white corn tortillas have a very similar calorie count. Any slight differences are negligible.

Yes, corn tortillas can be a good choice for weight loss. Their low-calorie and high-fiber profile can help you feel full longer. It's important to be mindful of fillings and preparation methods.

Yes, authentic corn tortillas made only with corn masa, water, and lime are naturally gluten-free, making them suitable for those avoiding gluten.

To reduce calories, warm your tortillas instead of frying, opt for lean protein and fresh vegetable fillings, and go light on high-fat toppings like cheese and sour cream.