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

Cream Cheese vs Ice Cream: 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. Cream Cheese has 342 calories while Ice Cream has 207 calories per 100g.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Ice Cream

207 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
Ice Cream
207
Proteinper 100g
Cream Cheese
5.9g
Ice Cream
3.5g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Cream Cheese
4.1g
Ice Cream
24g
Fatper 100g
Cream Cheese
34g
Ice Cream
11g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientCream CheeseIce CreamDifference
Calories342kcal207kcal+135.0kcal
Protein5.9g3.5g+2.4g
Carbohydrates4.1g24g-19.9g
Fat34g11g+23.0g
Fiber0g0g0.0g
Sugar0.4g21g-20.6g
Sodium321mg52mg+269.0mg

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

Ice Cream

Per 100g:207 calories
Per cup (150g):311 calories
Per serving (85g):176 calories

Diet Compatibility

Cream Cheese

KetoLow-CarbVegetarian

Ice Cream

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

When to Choose Cream Cheese

  • Higher in protein (5.9g vs 3.5g)
  • More fiber (0g vs 0g)
  • Lower in carbs (4.1g vs 24g)
  • Less sugar (0.4g vs 21g)

Common Uses

BreakfastSnacksCooking ingredientPost-workout
View full Cream Cheese nutrition →

When to Choose Ice Cream

  • Lower in calories (207 vs 342)
  • Lower sodium (52mg vs 321mg)

Common Uses

TreatsCelebrationsComfort foodSocial occasions
View full Ice Cream nutrition →

Cream Cheese vs Ice Cream: Nutritional Analysis

Cream Cheese is more calorie-dense at 342 calories per 100g compared to 207 for Ice Cream, a difference of 135 calories. On the protein front, Cream Cheese delivers more with 5.9g per 100g versus 3.5g, 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 Ice Cream tell different nutritional stories. Cream Cheese provides 4.1g of carbohydrates, 34g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Ice Cream contains 24g carbs, 11g fat, and 0g fiber. Sugar content also differs: Cream Cheese contains 0.4g while Ice Cream has 21g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Ice Cream is the lower-calorie choice at 207 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 Ice Cream?

Cream Cheese has more calories with 342 kcal per 100g, compared to Ice Cream with 207 kcal. That's a difference of 135 calories per 100g serving.

Is Cream Cheese healthier than Ice Cream?

Cream Cheese and Ice Cream 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 Cream Cheese and Ice Cream?

Cream Cheese has more protein with 5.9g per 100g, compared to Ice Cream with 3.5g. Cream Cheese provides 2.4g more protein per 100g serving.

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

For weight loss, Ice Cream is the better choice with only 207 calories per 100g compared to 342 calories in Cream Cheese. Ice Cream also offers 0g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Cream Cheese or Ice Cream have fewer carbs?

Cream Cheese has fewer carbs with 4.1g per 100g, compared to Ice Cream with 24g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Cream Cheese is the better option with 19.9g 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.