How many calories are in Costco cream cheese?

November 26, 2025 •

4 min read

According to nutritional data, a standard 2-tablespoon serving of Kirkland Signature cream cheese contains between 90 and 100 calories, with some variation depending on the source. Understanding how many calories are in Costco cream cheese is essential for anyone tracking their intake, especially given the bulk quantity purchased.

Quick Summary

Costco's Kirkland Signature cream cheese provides approximately 90-100 calories per 2-tablespoon serving, with slight variations possible. The precise calorie count and nutritional profile depend on the specific brand and version, such as regular or reduced-fat, available at the warehouse.

Key Points

Kirkland Signature Calories: A 2-tablespoon serving of Kirkland Signature cream cheese contains approximately 90-100 calories, with variations depending on the database or regional product.
Philadelphia Calories: The calorie count for Philadelphia cream cheese at Costco varies by product; the bulk original tub is around 100 calories per 1 oz serving, while spreads may be less.
Check the Label: Always verify the most accurate serving size and nutritional information on the specific product's packaging to avoid relying on potentially outdated or incorrect online data.
High Fat Content: Cream cheese is rich in fat, which is the primary source of its calories. Kirkland Signature contains about 9g of fat per 2-tbsp serving.
Serving Size Matters: The quoted calorie count is specific to the serving size listed on the nutrition facts label, which is typically 2 tablespoons or 1 ounce.
Nutritional Variation: Differences in fat content, such as between full-fat and reduced-fat versions, significantly impact the calorie count per serving.
Versatile but Dense: Cream cheese is a versatile ingredient but is calorie-dense, so portion control is important for those managing their weight or tracking calories.

Understanding Costco's Cream Cheese Offerings

Costco is known for its high-quality bulk products, and cream cheese is no exception. Customers typically find two main options: the house brand, Kirkland Signature, and branded products like Philadelphia. Both are sold in large quantities, which makes having a clear understanding of their nutritional content, particularly the calorie count, important for meal planning and managing a balanced diet.

While the packaging and product formulation can change slightly over time or in different regions, the core nutritional information for these products remains a reliable guide. It's crucial to always cross-reference the information on the product label with your dietary needs, as even minor changes in ingredients can affect the calorie and macronutrient breakdown.

Kirkland Signature Cream Cheese: The Nutritional Breakdown

For most Costco shoppers, Kirkland Signature is the primary cream cheese choice. A standard 2-tablespoon serving of this full-fat option contains approximately 90 to 100 calories. The variation can be attributed to differences in labeling standards or product updates. The majority of these calories come from its high fat content.

Here’s a typical nutrient profile for a 2-tablespoon serving:

Calories: 90-100 kcal
Total Fat: 9 grams
Saturated Fat: 6 grams
Carbohydrates: 2-3 grams
Protein: 2 grams
Sugars: 1 gram

This high-fat, low-carbohydrate profile makes it a popular ingredient for those following a keto or other low-carb diet. However, the high saturated fat and calorie density mean that portion control is key for a heart-healthy diet.

Philadelphia Cream Cheese: Nutritional Details at Costco

Costco also frequently stocks large-format packages of Philadelphia cream cheese, including bulk tubs and individual portion sizes for businesses. The nutritional content for Philadelphia can differ slightly from the Kirkland brand, but it also depends on the specific variety (e.g., original, reduced-fat, or spread).

For example, one 1 oz (28g) serving of Philadelphia original cream cheese may contain around 100 calories. However, a 1 oz spread portion might be closer to 70-80 calories due to its whipped texture and potentially different ingredients. Again, the serving size on the nutrition label is the most accurate source of information for the product you are purchasing.

Macronutrient Comparison: Kirkland vs. Philadelphia

To help you compare the two, here is a quick nutritional breakdown of the standard, full-fat versions commonly found at Costco, based on a typical 2-tablespoon (or 1 ounce) serving size.


Nutritional Metric	Kirkland Signature (approx.)	Philadelphia (approx.)
Calories	90–100 kcal	100 kcal
Total Fat	9 g	10 g
Saturated Fat	6 g	6 g
Carbohydrates	2–3 g	1 g
Protein	2 g	2 g

Note: Nutritional information can vary slightly by product and region. Always check the package label.

How to Find Accurate Nutritional Information

Understanding the calorie content starts with knowing how to read a nutrition label properly. The FDA provides a useful guide for this. Here are a few key points to remember:

Check the Serving Size: This is the most critical piece of information. All the calorie and nutrient data are based on this specific amount. Many people often consume more than the stated serving size, leading to higher actual calorie intake.
Look for Variations: Always check if the cream cheese is the full-fat, reduced-fat, or whipped variety. The calorie difference can be significant. Costco carries a variety of products, so don't assume consistency across different tubs.
Verify on the Package: While online databases are helpful, the most accurate information is always printed on the product's packaging itself. When in doubt, read the label.

Tips for Incorporating Cream Cheese into a Balanced Diet

Cream cheese is a versatile ingredient, but its high calorie and fat content mean it should be used in moderation. Here are some tips for enjoying it without derailing your health goals:

Portion Control: Measure out your serving size with a measuring spoon to avoid overconsumption. Remember that a bagel with a generous, unmeasured schmear can double or triple the calories of a single serving.
Lighter Alternatives: For a lower-calorie option, try the reduced-fat or whipped versions. These often have a lighter texture and fewer calories and saturated fat per serving.
Pair with Whole Foods: Spread cream cheese on whole-grain toast or bagels instead of white bread. Pair it with fresh vegetables or fruit for added fiber and nutrients.
Creative Recipes: Use it as a binding agent in recipes for dishes like mashed potatoes or creamy pasta sauces. This allows you to get the flavor without using excessive amounts. You can also create a lighter dip by mixing cream cheese with Greek yogurt.

Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice

Knowing how many calories are in Costco cream cheese empowers you to make informed decisions about your diet. Whether you choose the reliable Kirkland Signature brand or a trusted label like Philadelphia, always remember that serving size and product variation are key to understanding the true nutritional impact. By checking the label and practicing portion control, you can enjoy this versatile food while staying on track with your health and fitness goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

A standard 2-tablespoon serving of Kirkland Signature cream cheese contains between 90 and 100 calories, though it is best to check the most current label for the exact number.

The calorie counts for the standard, full-fat versions are very similar, both being around 90-100 calories per 2-tablespoon (1 oz) serving. Any difference is typically negligible. Nutritional content can vary more between standard and reduced-fat versions.

Yes, Costco typically carries reduced-fat or light cream cheese options, often from brands like Philadelphia. These versions will have fewer calories per serving than the regular, full-fat varieties.

The most accurate information is always found on the nutrition facts label of the specific product packaging. Serving sizes and recipes can be updated, so it's always best to check the container itself.

For most cream cheese products at Costco, the standard serving size used on the nutrition label is 2 tablespoons (about 28-30g) or 1 ounce.

Yes, full-fat cream cheese is typically low in carbohydrates and high in fat, making it a staple for many on a ketogenic diet. A 2-tablespoon serving of Kirkland cream cheese has only 2-3 grams of carbs.

On a per-tablespoon basis, full-fat cream cheese is generally higher in calories than regular sour cream. However, sour cream often contains more carbs per serving, so the overall nutritional comparison depends on the specific product and version.

In some recipes, you can use cream cheese as a substitute, but it's not a surefire way to save calories. Full-fat cream cheese and butter have similar calorie densities. For calorie savings, a reduced-fat cream cheese would be a better option.