Calorie Chart / Seasoning & Sauces / Crème fraîche - Thick
How Many Calories Are in Thick crème fraîche?
Calculation of the nutritional value & Recommended Dietary Intake of thick crème fraîche
For ml and a calorie requirement of kcal
| Calories 48 kcal | Proteins 0.3 g | Lipids 5 g | Carbohydrates 0.5 g |
| 2% | 0% | 7% | 0% |
Health benefits of thick crème fraîche
Thick crème fraîche - 100ml
Calories 320 kcal
Proteins 2.3 g
Lipids 33.3 g
Carbohydrates 3 g
Thick crème fraîche is considered a high-calorie dairy product: with 320 kcal per 100 g, its calorie content places it among the richest creams used in cooking. Those calories mostly come from its 33 g of lipids, which supply fat-soluble vitamins A and D that contribute to vision, immune function, and bone health. Speaking of calories again, the product also provides small but useful amounts of calcium (around 110 mg/100 g) for bone mineralisation and phosphorus for energy metabolism.
Although its calorie content is high, the cream contains conjugated linoleic acid (CLA); this fatty acid is studied for supposed anti-inflammatory and body-composition benefits (the term "supposed" is used because evidence is still limited). Fermentation with lactic cultures gives thick crème fraîche a tangy flavour and may add probiotic bacteria such as Lactococcus lactis. Even when calories are a concern, these cultures can aid lactose digestion for some people.
Historically, thick crème fraîche has been produced in Normandy and Brittany since the 19th century. Before refrigerators, farmers let raw cream sour naturally; the resulting product, although dense in calories, kept longer and enriched sauces of traditional dishes like sole meunière. A final note on calories: because the cream is pasteurised after fermentation, its shelf life is extended while most nutrients remain intact.
Tips for incorporating thick crème fraîche into a balanced diet
Managing calories wisely, thick crème fraîche should be used in small portions to round off savoury or sweet recipes. Add one tablespoon to a mushroom sauce over grilled chicken breast; you obtain creaminess with limited extra calories if the rest of the plate is steamed broccoli. By counting calories, you can keep the meal balanced.
For comforting dishes where calories matter less, fold thick crème fraîche into a classic quiche Lorraine or stir it into a pan of sautéed potato cubes for an instant "crème-fraîche potatoes" side. In desserts, whisk it with vanilla and spoon over fresh strawberries; the natural acidity lifts flavour without adding too many extra calories compared with whipped cream.
- Lighten sauces by mixing equal parts thick crème fraîche and vegetable stock; you cut calories while maintaining texture.
- Replace half the cream in a beef bourguignon finish with thick crème fraîche to enhance shine—count the calories so the dish stays within your daily allowance.
- If calories are a priority, swap half the portion for light crème fraîche and season with lemon zest to keep the same mouthfeel.
Whichever recipe you choose, remember to weigh the cream: even a 20 g spoon delivers roughly 64 calories, so a simple scale helps control calories precisely.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How many calories are in thick crème fraîche?
- There are 320 kcal per 100 g.
- Is thick crème fraîche fattening?
- Its 320 kcal and 33 g of fat per 100 g make it calorie-dense; eaten in excess, those calories can lead to weight gain. Used in 15–20 g portions, the calories are more manageable.
- What is the difference in calories between thick and liquid crème fraîche?
- Liquid crème fraîche usually ranges from 200 to 290 kcal/100 g, whereas the thick version reaches 320 kcal/100 g, so it supplies more calories and a richer texture.
- How can I reduce calories when a recipe calls for thick crème fraîche?
- Blend half the amount with Greek yogurt or choose light crème fraîche; you may cut calories by 30–40% while keeping creaminess.
- Does heating thick crème fraîche change its calories?
- Cooking alters water content slightly but does not significantly change calories; 100 g before or after cooking will still provide roughly the same calories.
- Is thick crème fraîche suitable for a ketogenic diet?
- Yes. Because most calories come from fat and it contains only about 3 g of carbohydrates, its calories fit well into a keto macronutrient profile.
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Information provided by Calorie Menu may contain inaccuracies or errors. It cannot, under any circumstances, substitute medical advice or medication.
