Butter vs Cream Cheese: Nutrition Comparison
Which is healthier? Compare calories, protein, carbs, and more
Complete side-by-side nutrition comparison per 100g serving | Updated 2026
Which is Healthier?
Both foods have similar nutritional profiles
Both foods have similar nutritional profiles with each winning in different categories. Your choice should depend on your specific dietary goals and preferences. Butter has 717 calories while Cream Cheese has 342 calories per 100g.
Quick Summary
Fewer Calories
Cream Cheese
342 kcal
More Protein
Cream Cheese
5.9g
More Fiber
Butter
0g
Less Sugar
Butter
0.1g
Visual Comparison
Side-by-Side Nutrition Table
| Nutrient | Butter | Cream Cheese | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 717kcal | 342kcal✓ | +375.0kcal |
| Protein | 0.9g | 5.9g✓ | -5.0g |
| Carbohydrates | 0.1g✓ | 4.1g | -4.0g |
| Fat | 81g | 34g✓ | +47.0g |
| Fiber | 0g | 0g | 0.0g |
| Sugar | 0.1g✓ | 0.4g | -0.3g |
| Sodium | 11mg✓ | 321mg | -310.0mg |
Serving Size Comparison
All values above are per 100g. Here's how they compare in common serving sizes:
Butter
Cream Cheese
Diet Compatibility
Butter
Cream Cheese
When to Choose Butter
- ✓More fiber (0g vs 0g)
- ✓Lower in carbs (0.1g vs 4.1g)
- ✓Less sugar (0.1g vs 0.4g)
- ✓Lower sodium (11mg vs 321mg)
Common Uses
When to Choose Cream Cheese
- ✓Lower in calories (342 vs 717)
- ✓Higher in protein (5.9g vs 0.9g)
Common Uses
Butter vs Cream Cheese: Nutritional Analysis
Butter is more calorie-dense at 717 calories per 100g compared to 342 for Cream Cheese, a difference of 375 calories. On the protein front, Cream Cheese delivers more with 5.9g per 100g versus 0.9g, which matters for muscle maintenance, satiety, and overall metabolic health. These differences become meaningful when you consider how each food fits into your daily dietary pattern rather than looking at any single nutrient in isolation.
Macronutrient Breakdown
The macronutrient profiles of Butter and Cream Cheese tell different nutritional stories. Butter provides 0.1g of carbohydrates, 81g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Cream Cheese contains 4.1g carbs, 34g fat, and 0g fiber. Sugar content also differs: Butter contains 0.1g while Cream Cheese has 0.4g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.
Key Takeaways
- For weight management: Cream Cheese is the lower-calorie choice at 342 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
- For muscle building: Cream Cheese provides more protein (5.9g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
- For sustained energy: Butter offers more fiber (0g/100g), which slows digestion and provides steadier energy release.
- Overall: Neither food is universally "better" than the other. The right choice depends on your specific nutritional goals, meal context, and dietary preferences. Both can play a role in a balanced diet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more calories, Butter or Cream Cheese?
Butter has more calories with 717 kcal per 100g, compared to Cream Cheese with 342 kcal. That's a difference of 375 calories per 100g serving.
Is Butter healthier than Cream Cheese?
Butter and Cream Cheese have similar nutritional profiles, with each food winning in different categories. The healthier choice depends on your specific dietary goals and nutritional needs.
What is the protein difference between Butter and Cream Cheese?
Cream Cheese has more protein with 5.9g per 100g, compared to Butter with 0.9g. Cream Cheese provides 5.0g more protein per 100g serving.
Which is better for weight loss, Butter or Cream Cheese?
For weight loss, Cream Cheese is the better choice with only 342 calories per 100g compared to 717 calories in Butter. Cream Cheese also offers 0g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.
Does Butter or Cream Cheese have fewer carbs?
Butter has fewer carbs with 0.1g per 100g, compared to Cream Cheese with 4.1g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Butter is the better option with 4.0g fewer carbohydrates.
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About Our Data
All nutrition data in this comparison is sourced from the USDA FoodData Central, the official food composition database maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Values are based on 100g servings for accurate comparison.
Health Disclaimer: This comparison is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or dietary advice. Nutritional needs vary by individual. The best food choice depends on your personal health goals, dietary requirements, and preferences. Consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition guidance.