How many calories are in one Strawberry Jelly?

October 21, 2025 •

3 min read

According to Nutritionix, one tablespoon (21g) of strawberry jelly contains approximately 56 calories. The precise amount, however, can vary based on brand, ingredients, and serving size, which is why it is crucial to check the nutritional label to determine how many calories are in one strawberry jelly.

Quick Summary

This article explores the caloric content of strawberry jelly, differentiating between various types like regular, low-sugar, and sugar-free. It highlights the primary drivers of calorie counts—namely sugar and fruit—and provides a comprehensive overview of nutrition information. Healthier alternatives and tips for portion control are also discussed.

Key Points

Standard Calorie Count: One tablespoon of typical strawberry jelly contains around 56 calories, primarily from sugar.
Ingredient Impact: The calorie count depends on the type and amount of sweetener used, with natural sugars leading to a higher calorie density than artificial ones.
Product Differences: Jam, jelly, and preserves have different calorie and nutrient profiles based on their fruit content and processing.
Healthier Alternatives: Low-sugar and sugar-free versions can reduce calories to as low as 10-25 per tablespoon, making them a better choice for those managing their sugar intake.
Smart Choices: For mindful eating, consider homemade spreads with natural thickeners like chia seeds or opt for reduced-sugar brands.

Understanding the Calorie Count in Strawberry Jelly

Most of the calories in strawberry jelly come from sugar, which is added during the manufacturing process. A typical one-tablespoon serving of regular strawberry jelly can range from 45 to 56 calories, with the majority of these calories derived from carbohydrates in the form of sugar. The high sugar content provides quick energy but offers minimal nutritional value beyond carbohydrates.

Factors Influencing Strawberry Jelly Calories

Several factors can cause the calorie count to differ between various strawberry jelly products:

Added Sugars: The type and amount of sweetener used, whether it is high-fructose corn syrup, granulated sugar, or fruit juice concentrate, significantly impacts the total calories.
Type of Spread: The label 'jelly' indicates a transparent spread made from fruit juice, sugar, and pectin. In contrast, 'jam' contains crushed fruit pulp, while 'preserves' contain larger pieces of fruit. These variations in fruit content and preparation can slightly alter the calorie and nutrient profiles.
Serving Size: Although one tablespoon is a standard reference, individual portions can vary greatly. Using more than the recommended serving will naturally increase the calorie intake.
Sugar-Free or Reduced-Sugar Versions: These products use low-calorie sweeteners, which drastically lowers their calorie count. For example, some sugar-free strawberry spreads can have as few as 10 to 25 calories per tablespoon.

Comparison Table: Jelly vs. Jam vs. Preserves


Product Type	Calorie Range (per tbsp)	Sugar Content	Fruit Consistency	Nutritional Notes
Strawberry Jelly	45–56	High	Clear, smooth gel	Made from fruit juice, very little fiber or vitamins.
Strawberry Jam	40–50	High to Medium	Soft, smooth, with crushed fruit	Contains more fruit content than jelly, offering slightly more fiber.
Strawberry Preserves	40–50	High to Medium	Thicker, with larger fruit pieces	The highest fruit content, providing the most fiber and nutrients of the three.
Low-Sugar Spread	20–30	Low to Medium	Varies by brand	Fewer calories and less added sugar, but still processed.
Sugar-Free Spread	10–15	None added	Varies by brand	Often uses artificial sweeteners; ideal for calorie control.

Making a Healthier Choice

For those watching their calorie intake, choosing the right strawberry spread is key. While all these spreads are considered treats, opting for a lower-calorie version or a smaller serving can make a difference. Homemade strawberry jelly recipes often allow for better control over the type and amount of sugar used, enabling you to significantly reduce the calorie and sugar content. Natural thickeners like chia seeds or pectin with no added sugar can also be used to create healthier fruit spreads.

Benefits of Choosing Lower-Sugar Spreads

Reduced Blood Sugar Spikes: The high sugar content in regular jelly can cause rapid increases in blood glucose levels, which can be problematic, especially for those with diabetes. Low-sugar alternatives help mitigate this risk.
Less Added Sugar: Many dietary guidelines recommend limiting added sugar. Using a sugar-free or low-sugar option helps align with these recommendations.
Better Portion Control: Because they are less calorically dense, lower-sugar spreads allow you to use a slightly larger portion without drastically increasing your calorie intake.

How to Read a Nutrition Label

When comparing strawberry jellies at the store, look beyond just the calorie count. Inspect the list of ingredients to see what type of sweetener is used. The first ingredient is often a good indicator of the product's quality. Also, compare the sugar content per serving. Some brands may use high-fructose corn syrup, while others use more natural sweeteners. Checking the total carbohydrates can also be helpful, as this is where most of the calories are stored. The USDA FoodData Central offers comprehensive nutritional information for thousands of products, including various jellies.

Conclusion

While a single tablespoon of traditional strawberry jelly is a moderate source of calories, it is important to be aware of the high sugar content and minimal nutritional value. The number of calories in one strawberry jelly serving typically falls between 45 and 56, though this can vary significantly with low-sugar and sugar-free options. Making an informed decision by reading nutritional labels and considering healthier alternatives, such as reduced-sugar spreads or homemade versions, can help manage calorie intake effectively. By being mindful of consumption and choosing products with less added sugar, you can enjoy the flavor of strawberry jelly as part of a balanced and healthy diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, there can be a slight difference. While often similar, strawberry jam, made with crushed fruit, may offer slightly more fiber than transparent strawberry jelly, though both are typically high in sugar and calories.

The primary source of calories in strawberry jelly is added sugar, which also contributes to its carbohydrate content. It is low in protein and fat.

Yes, sugar-free strawberry jellies are significantly lower in calories as they use alternative sweeteners instead of sugar.

Yes, you can make your own low-calorie strawberry jelly by using less sugar or replacing it with natural sweeteners and natural thickeners like chia seeds.

Yes, the brand of strawberry jelly can affect the calorie count due to differences in recipes and added ingredients. Always check the nutrition label for the most accurate information.

Strawberry jelly is high in sugar and provides minimal nutritional benefits. It is best consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

You can reduce the calories by simply using a smaller portion, choosing a low-sugar or sugar-free brand, or making a homemade version with a sugar substitute.