Calories in Mascarpone: Full Nutrition Breakdown

Mascarpone is a rich, creamy Italian cheese made from heavy cream and an acid such as citric acid or tartaric acid, giving it a smooth, buttery texture with a mild, slightly sweet flavor. It is one of the highest-fat cheeses available, with most of its calories coming from fat, and is used primarily in desserts and rich sauces. Here is a complete breakdown of mascarpone cheese nutrition by serving size.

Calories by serving size:

Mascarpone contains small amounts of calcium, vitamin A, and riboflavin, but it is not a significant source of most micronutrients compared to harder cheeses. Its exceptionally high fat content, particularly saturated fat, means it should be used in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How does mascarpone compare to cream cheese in calories?

Mascarpone is higher in calories and fat than cream cheese, with about 120 calories and 12.5 grams of fat per ounce compared to cream cheese's roughly 99 calories and 9.9 grams of fat per ounce. Mascarpone has a higher butterfat content, typically 60 to 75%, while cream cheese is around 33 to 35%. The texture of mascarpone is also smoother and more spreadable, while cream cheese has a slightly firmer, tangier profile.

How many calories are in a tablespoon of mascarpone?

One tablespoon (about 15 g) of mascarpone contains approximately 60 calories, with nearly all of them coming from fat. This is a typical amount used when spreading on toast or adding to a sauce. Since mascarpone is so calorie-dense, even small spoonfuls contribute meaningfully to total calorie intake.

How is mascarpone used in tiramisu?

Mascarpone is the essential creamy layer in tiramisu, typically beaten with egg yolks and sugar to create the rich, mousse-like filling layered between espresso-soaked ladyfingers. A standard tiramisu recipe uses about 8 to 16 ounces of mascarpone, making it the primary calorie contributor in the dessert. A single serving of tiramisu can contain 400 to 500 calories, with mascarpone accounting for a significant portion.

Is mascarpone cheese healthy?

Mascarpone is very high in saturated fat and calories, so it is best used sparingly rather than as a dietary staple. It provides some protein and calcium, but in much smaller amounts per calorie compared to cheeses like cottage cheese or mozzarella. Enjoying mascarpone occasionally in desserts or sauces is reasonable, but it is not an ideal everyday cheese for those watching fat or calorie intake.

What can be substituted for mascarpone?

A common substitute is a mixture of cream cheese and heavy cream, blended until smooth, which closely mimics mascarpone's texture and richness. Greek yogurt or ricotta mixed with a small amount of cream can also work in some recipes for a lower-calorie alternative. These substitutions reduce the fat and calorie content while maintaining a similar creamy consistency, though the flavor will be slightly tangier than authentic mascarpone.