Cali Creamin' Calories by Variety and Size
The number of calories in a Cali Creamin' can vary depending on the specific version and the serving size. Mother Earth Brew Co. offers several takes on its popular cream ale, each with a slightly different nutritional profile. Knowing the breakdown can help you make an informed decision when enjoying this brew.
The Standard Cali Creamin' Vanilla Cream Ale
The flagship offering, Cali Creamin' Vanilla Cream Ale, is the benchmark for the style. In a standard 12 fl oz can, it contains approximately 166 calories. This is comparable to many traditional craft beers but higher than most light beers. The calories mainly come from a combination of its alcohol content (5.0% ABV) and the residual carbohydrates from ingredients like flaked corn and honey malt.
Cali Creamin' Creamsicle and Nitro Variations
For those who prefer a different flavor profile, Mother Earth Brew Co. offers special editions. The Cali Creamin' Creamsicle, which includes added orange and cream flavors, clocks in at a slightly higher 170 calories per 12 oz serving. The Nitro version, which provides a creamier mouthfeel, also contains around 170 calories. While the difference is small, it's worth noting if you're tracking your intake closely.
Serving Size Makes a Difference
It's also important to consider the serving size, as this directly affects the total calorie consumption. A standard 12 oz can or bottle will be your baseline, but larger portions will have more calories.
- 12 oz can: 166 calories (Vanilla)
- 12 oz can: 170 calories (Creamsicle/Nitro)
- 16 oz pint: ~220 calories (Vanilla)
- 22 oz serving: ~300+ calories (Based on 16 oz data)
A Closer Look at the Nutritional Breakdown
Beyond just calories, understanding the full nutritional profile provides a clearer picture of what you are consuming. The calories in beer are derived from alcohol and carbohydrates. While Cali Creamin' is not a low-carb beer, it’s not excessively high for its style.
- Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 13g per 12 oz serving (Creamsicle/Nitro).
- Protein: Approximately 2g per 12 oz serving (Creamsicle/Nitro).
- Sugar: Listed as 0g for the Creamsicle/Nitro versions, indicating fermentation converted the sugar.
- Fat: 0g in all versions.
- Sodium: Minimal, at around 10mg per 12 oz.
The smooth, creamy texture and vanilla flavor are achieved through a combination of flaked corn, honey malt, and Madagascar vanilla beans. These ingredients contribute to the overall carb and calorie count.
Comparing Cali Creamin' to Other Popular Beers
To put Cali Creamin's calorie count into perspective, here is a comparison with other common beers. This table shows that while Cali Creamin' is not the lightest option, it is in line with many full-flavored craft beers.
| Beverage | Serving Size | Approximate Calories | Approximate Carbs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cali Creamin' | 12 oz | 166 kcal | ~13g |
| Bud Light | 12 oz | 110 kcal | 6.6g |
| Sierra Nevada Pale Ale | 12 oz | 175 kcal | 14g |
| Guinness Draught | 12 oz | 125 kcal | 10g |
| Corona Extra | 12 oz | 148 kcal | 13.9g |
Is Cali Creamin' Gluten-Free?
For those with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, it is important to know that Cali Creamin' is not a gluten-free beer. The brewery, Mother Earth Brew Co., explicitly states in its FAQ that none of their beers are gluten-free or gluten-reduced. The brewing process uses traditional barley, which contains gluten.
The Flavor Profile Behind the Calories
The unique taste of Cali Creamin' is what makes its calorie count a worthwhile consideration for many. The Madagascar vanilla beans impart a smooth, dessert-like flavor, reminiscent of a cream soda, but with a noticeable alcoholic kick. This is complemented by the malty backbone derived from flaked corn and honey malt, which also adds to the beer's body and sweetness. The Cascade hops provide a balanced finish without excessive bitterness, making for a highly drinkable and flavorful experience. The slight sweetness and creamy mouthfeel contribute to its caloric density, making it a different experience from a low-calorie, light lager. For a deeper look at the brewery and their offerings, you can visit the Mother Earth Brew Co. website.
Conclusion: Making Informed Choices
In summary, a standard 12 oz Cali Creamin' contains approximately 166 calories, with the Creamsicle and Nitro versions being slightly higher at 170 calories. The caloric intake increases with larger serving sizes, such as a 16 oz pint, which has about 220 calories. While not the lowest-calorie beer on the market, it offers a flavorful, full-bodied experience. By understanding the calorie differences between the varieties and serving sizes, you can better track your intake while still enjoying this popular craft ale. The primary caloric sources are alcohol and carbohydrates from malts, flaked corn, and other ingredients, though the beer finishes relatively dry despite the vanilla sweetness.
