Written by CalorieData Nutrition TeamReviewed by a Registered DietitianLast Updated: March 2026

Cream Cheese vs Candy: 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?

Cream Cheese is generally healthier

Cream Cheese comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (342 vs 400), more protein (5.9g vs 0g), more fiber (0g vs 0g), less sugar (0.4g vs 90g), making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Cream Cheese

342 kcal

More Protein

Cream Cheese

5.9g

More Fiber

Cream Cheese

0g

Less Sugar

Cream Cheese

0.4g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Cream Cheese
342
Candy
400
Proteinper 100g
Cream Cheese
5.9g
Candy
0g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Cream Cheese
4.1g
Candy
100g
Fatper 100g
Cream Cheese
34g
Candy
0g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientCream CheeseCandyDifference
Calories342kcal400kcal-58.0kcal
Protein5.9g0g+5.9g
Carbohydrates4.1g100g-95.9g
Fat34g0g+34.0g
Fiber0g0g0.0g
Sugar0.4g90g-89.6g
Sodium321mg20mg+301.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

All values above are per 100g. Here's how they compare in common serving sizes:

Cream Cheese

Per 100g:342 calories
Per cup (150g):513 calories
Per serving (85g):291 calories

Candy

Per 100g:400 calories
Per cup (150g):600 calories
Per serving (85g):340 calories

Diet Compatibility

Cream Cheese

KetoLow-CarbVegetarian

Candy

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

When to Choose Cream Cheese

  • Lower in calories (342 vs 400)
  • Higher in protein (5.9g vs 0g)
  • More fiber (0g vs 0g)
  • Lower in carbs (4.1g vs 100g)
  • Less sugar (0.4g vs 90g)

Common Uses

BreakfastSnacksCooking ingredientPost-workout
View full Cream Cheese nutrition →

When to Choose Candy

  • Lower sodium (20mg vs 321mg)

Common Uses

TreatsCelebrationsComfort foodSocial occasions
View full Candy nutrition →

Cream Cheese vs Candy: Nutritional Analysis

Candy is more calorie-dense at 400 calories per 100g compared to 342 for Cream Cheese, a difference of 58 calories. On the protein front, Cream Cheese delivers more with 5.9g per 100g versus 0g, 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 Cream Cheese and Candy tell different nutritional stories. Cream Cheese provides 4.1g of carbohydrates, 34g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Candy contains 100g carbs, 0g fat, and 0g fiber. Sugar content also differs: Cream Cheese contains 0.4g while Candy has 90g 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: Cream Cheese 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, Cream Cheese or Candy?

Candy has more calories with 400 kcal per 100g, compared to Cream Cheese with 342 kcal. That's a difference of 58 calories per 100g serving.

Is Cream Cheese healthier than Candy?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Cream Cheese is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Cream Cheese has 342 calories, 5.9g protein, and 0g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Cream Cheese and Candy?

Cream Cheese has more protein with 5.9g per 100g, compared to Candy with 0g. Cream Cheese provides 5.9g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Cream Cheese or Candy?

For weight loss, Cream Cheese is the better choice with only 342 calories per 100g compared to 400 calories in Candy. Candy also offers 0g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Cream Cheese or Candy have fewer carbs?

Cream Cheese has fewer carbs with 4.1g per 100g, compared to Candy with 100g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Cream Cheese is the better option with 95.9g fewer carbohydrates.

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.