A Tale of Two Sundaes: Chocolate vs. Berry
When you approach the Costco food court, the sundae machine offers a choice between a decadent chocolate or a fruity berry topping. While both are delicious, their calorie counts differ significantly. The chocolate sundae is notably higher in calories due to its rich, high-fat topping, while the berry version, typically made with fruit puree, offers a lighter, though still high-sugar, alternative. This disparity is crucial for anyone monitoring their calorie intake.
The Chocolate Sundae Breakdown
The Costco chocolate sundae is a rich concoction of soft-serve vanilla ice cream and a generous drizzle of chocolate syrup. MyFoodDiary.com reports that one serving of the chocolate sundae contains approximately 690 calories. Breaking down the macros further reveals why this dessert is so calorie-dense:
- Fat: 34g, with a large portion being saturated fat (20g).
- Carbohydrates: 88g, including 65g of sugar and 47g of added sugars.
- Protein: 9g.
- Cholesterol: 125mg.
- Sodium: 210mg.
This high calorie count is largely driven by the combination of the creamy soft-serve base and the rich chocolate sauce. For someone on a standard 2,000-calorie daily diet, this single dessert accounts for over a third of their total daily caloric intake.
The Berry Sundae Breakdown
The Costco berry sundae, often made with a mixed berry or strawberry puree, presents a different nutritional profile. As reported on EatThisMuch.com and CalorieKing, the berry sundae contains approximately 410 calories. The lower calorie count is primarily due to the topping, which contains less fat compared to the chocolate syrup. The macronutrient distribution is also distinct:
- Fat: 0g.
- Carbohydrates: 87g, with 60g of sugar.
- Protein: 14g.
- Sodium: 240mg.
While lower in calories, it is important to note the high sugar content, which contributes significantly to the overall calorie load. The higher protein content compared to the chocolate version is also a notable difference.
How Costco's Sundaes Compare
To provide a clearer picture, here is a comparative look at the key nutritional values of the two sundae options.
| Nutritional Component | Chocolate Sundae | Berry Sundae |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~690 kcal | ~410 kcal |
| Total Fat | 34g | 0g |
| Saturated Fat | 20g | 0g |
| Carbohydrates | 88g | 87g |
| Total Sugars | 65g | 60g |
| Protein | 9g | 14g |
| Cholesterol | 125mg | 5mg |
This comparison highlights that the chocolate sundae is a much richer, more indulgent dessert, whereas the berry sundae is the more calorie-conscious choice of the two, especially regarding fat content.
What Influences the Sundae's Calories?
The calorie content is not just about the topping; it's a combination of several factors. The base is a soft-serve vanilla ice milk, and the nutritional data for a similar Kirkland Signature ice cream shows it is high in sugar and has a moderate amount of fat. The specific recipe and serving size contribute significantly to the final calorie count. The consistency and portion size at the food court, which can be quite generous, also play a role.
Making a Healthier Choice
For those watching their diet, enjoying a treat like the Costco sundae can still be an option with a little planning. Some people choose to split a sundae with a friend or family member, effectively halving the calorie count. Others might opt for the fruitier berry option, which offers a substantial saving of nearly 300 calories. The key is to be mindful of the portion size and frequency of consumption. The food court is also known for its other low-cost options; therefore, a balanced meal can be created by pairing a sundae with a less calorie-dense main course like the salad.
Conclusion
When considering how many calories are in a Costco sundae, it's clear there's a significant difference between the chocolate and berry versions. The chocolate sundae packs around 690 calories, while the berry sundae comes in at approximately 410 calories. Understanding these nutritional facts allows consumers to make more informed decisions about their dietary intake while still enjoying their favorite food court treats. Whether you opt for the lighter berry or the more indulgent chocolate, portion control is key to fitting it into a balanced diet.
For additional nutritional information and to find details about other food items, you can explore external resources like food tracking apps that often list Costco menu items in their database, or consult resources like MyFoodDiary.com.
