How many calories are in one small dark chocolate?

November 5, 2025 •

3 min read

One small, 10-gram square of dark chocolate, particularly with 70-85% cacao, contains approximately 50 to 60 calories, depending on the brand and specific recipe. Understanding precisely how many calories are in one small dark chocolate piece is key for mindful consumption and can help you enjoy this treat without derailing your health goals.

Quick Summary

A single small square of dark chocolate typically contains 50-60 calories, with the exact amount varying by size and cocoa content. Higher percentages of cacao generally mean slightly higher fat but lower sugar. Portion control is essential for managing intake.

Key Points

Average Calorie Count: One small 10g square of dark chocolate contains between 50 and 60 calories, though this can vary by brand and cocoa content.
Cocoa Content Matters: Dark chocolate with a higher percentage of cacao solids (e.g., 85%) may have a slightly higher calorie count due to increased fat from cocoa butter, but it contains less sugar.
Comparison to Other Chocolates: The calorie difference per small square between dark, milk, and white chocolate is minimal, but dark chocolate typically has less sugar and more beneficial minerals.
Moderation is Key: Dark chocolate is a calorie-dense food, so portion control is crucial for managing your calorie intake.
High Satisfaction Factor: Because of its rich flavor, a small piece of dark chocolate can be highly satisfying, helping to curb cravings without consuming excessive calories.

Calorie Breakdown of a Small Dark Chocolate Square

For many health-conscious individuals, the specific calorie count of treats is a key consideration. While dark chocolate offers potential health benefits from its antioxidants, it remains a calorie-dense food. A typical 10-gram small square is a good serving size for controlled indulgence.

The Average Calorie Range

According to several nutrition sources, the average calorie count for a 10-gram square of dark chocolate falls within the 50-60 calorie range. For example:

A 10g square of 70-85% cacao dark chocolate contains around 60 calories.
An 8g piece of 45% dark chocolate is approximately 44 calories.
A small 10g square from brands like Lindt can be around 50 calories.

This variation is mainly due to the differing percentages of cocoa solids, cocoa butter, and added sugar used by manufacturers. A higher cacao percentage means more cocoa butter (fat) and often less added sugar, influencing the final calorie total.

Key Factors Affecting Dark Chocolate's Calorie Content

Several elements contribute to the final calorie count of a small piece of dark chocolate. Being aware of these can help you better estimate its energy contribution to your diet.

Cocoa Percentage: Higher cocoa content (e.g., 85%) means more cocoa butter and less sugar, resulting in a slightly higher calorie count per gram compared to lower percentages (e.g., 60%).
Added Ingredients: Nuts, caramel, or fruit fillings can significantly increase the calorie count, often adding extra fat and sugar.
Manufacturing Process: The way cocoa beans are processed can affect the final nutritional composition and, consequently, the calories.
Portion Size: While a 10g square is standard, some brands use slightly different sizes, and the 'small' designation can be subjective. Always check the nutrition label for the precise serving size and corresponding calories.

Dark Chocolate vs. Other Chocolate Types: A Comparison

To put the calorie count of a small dark chocolate piece into perspective, it's helpful to compare it with other popular chocolate varieties. The following table provides a general comparison for a standard 10-gram portion, though specific values will vary by brand.


Chocolate Type (Approx. 10g)	Typical Calories	Saturated Fat (approx.)	Sugar (approx.)
Dark Chocolate (70-85% Cacao)	50-60	2.5-3.5g	2-4g
Milk Chocolate	55-65	3-4g	5-7g
White Chocolate	55-65	3-4g	6-8g

Data are based on general nutritional information and may vary significantly by brand and recipe.

As the table shows, the calorie difference between a small square of dark, milk, or white chocolate is often not as significant as one might assume. The key nutritional distinction lies in the saturated fat and sugar content. Dark chocolate provides more beneficial minerals and fiber while containing less sugar than its counterparts.

Mindful Consumption for Maximum Benefit

While a small piece of dark chocolate is not 'low calorie', its rich flavor means that a small amount is often very satisfying. This makes it an ideal treat for portion control and preventing overconsumption. For those watching their weight, it is important to budget for the calories from dark chocolate within their daily intake, and its satisfying nature can help manage cravings for higher-sugar snacks. The best strategy is to stick to a consistent, pre-portioned serving size to enjoy the taste and potential health benefits without excess calories.

Conclusion

In summary, one small piece of dark chocolate, typically a 10-gram square, contains approximately 50-60 calories. The exact calorie count depends on the cocoa percentage, added ingredients, and the specific brand. While not low-calorie, its rich flavor profile often allows a small portion to be a satisfying treat. By practicing mindful portion control and checking the nutritional information, you can enjoy dark chocolate as a part of a balanced diet while staying on track with your health and fitness goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, a higher cocoa percentage generally leads to a slightly higher calorie count per gram. This is because a higher cacao content means more fat from cocoa butter, while also reducing the amount of added sugar.

No, dark chocolate is not considered a low-calorie food. It is energy-dense, with a single ounce containing approximately 150-170 calories. Its potential health benefits should be considered in the context of its calorie density.

For a similar-sized small piece, the calorie counts for dark chocolate and milk chocolate are often very close (50-65 calories). The primary nutritional difference is that dark chocolate typically has less sugar and more antioxidants.

A small piece is generally defined as a single square, which typically weighs around 8-10 grams, such as those found in many individually wrapped chocolate assortments.

To fit dark chocolate into a healthy diet, focus on portion control. Enjoy a single small square as a mindful treat, rather than eating a whole bar. This allows you to reap the benefits without consuming excess calories.

Yes, adding ingredients like nuts, caramel, or other fillings will significantly increase both the fat and sugar content, leading to a higher overall calorie count for the piece of chocolate.

For the most accurate calorie count, check the nutrition facts label on the packaging. The label will provide the serving size and corresponding nutritional information, including calories.