The Standard Mini Moonpie Calorie Count
The mini moonpie is a popular snack, known for its iconic combination of graham cracker, marshmallow, and a flavored coating. For those managing their intake, the consistent calorie count across the most common flavors simplifies the process. The standard mini moonpie, regardless of whether it is chocolate, vanilla, or banana, contains 110 calories per individually wrapped pie. This information is derived from the official nutritional facts and packaging information provided by the Chattanooga Bakery.
A Flavor-by-Flavor Calorie Breakdown
While the base calorie count for mini moonpies is consistent, it's helpful to see the specific nutritional information for each flavor, as subtle differences in ingredients can slightly alter the macronutrient profile. Below is a breakdown for the most common mini moonpie flavors.
Chocolate Mini Moonpie
One serving (one pie) of a mini chocolate moonpie provides 110 calories. The recipe features a chocolate-flavored coating and a classic marshmallow filling. Other nutritional data often cited includes approximately 2.5g of total fat and 20g of carbohydrates. The delicious chocolate taste comes from a cocoa powder-based coating.
Vanilla Mini Moonpie
Similar to its chocolate counterpart, a mini vanilla moonpie also contains 110 calories per piece. This flavor, which features a vanilla-flavored coating and marshmallow, appeals to those who prefer a less intense sweetness. The nutritional information is comparable, with sources confirming similar fat and carbohydrate levels per serving.
Banana Mini Moonpie
For those who enjoy a fruity twist, the mini banana moonpie is a classic option. This flavor also sits at 110 calories per pie. The ingredients include natural and artificial banana flavors to create its distinctive taste, all while maintaining the same total energy count as the other mini varieties. The nutritional profile, with 3g total fat and 10g of sugar, remains in the same range as the other mini pies.
Deconstructing the Mini Moonpie Nutritional Profile
Beyond just the calories, understanding the full nutritional profile provides a clearer picture of what the snack contains. Based on the 110-calorie serving size, here is a general nutritional overview of a mini moonpie:
- Total Fat: Approximately 2.5–3g, depending on the flavor, with 1.5–2g coming from saturated fat.
- Sodium: Around 35–75mg, a relatively low amount for a sweet snack.
- Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 20g, with 9–10g of that being sugars.
- Protein: A very low amount, typically around 1g.
- Cholesterol: 0mg, as the product does not contain animal fat or dairy other than in the gelatin.
Mini Moonpie vs. The Rest: A Calorie Comparison
To put the mini moonpie's calorie count into perspective, here is a comparison with other Moonpie products, including the standard single-decker and the larger double-decker varieties.
| Moonpie Size | Approximate Calories | Approximate Weight (oz) |
|---|---|---|
| Mini | 110 kcal | 1.0 oz (28g) |
| Single-Decker | 220 kcal | 2.0 oz (57g) |
| Double-Decker | 300 kcal | 2.75 oz (78g) |
Ingredients and Health Considerations
The primary ingredients of a mini moonpie include enriched flour, sugar, and corn syrup, which are common in many baked goods and confectionery products. It is important to note that the mini moonpie, like other processed snacks, provides minimal nutritional benefit beyond its energy content. The sugar content, in particular, should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. The use of real sugar and the removal of high-fructose corn syrup in recent recipes might be a positive change for some consumers, but the overall profile remains that of a treat.
List of Common Ingredients in Mini Moonpies
- Enriched flour (wheat flour, niacin, reduced iron, thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, folic acid, enzymes)
- Invert sugar
- Corn syrup
- Sugar
- Palm and palm kernel oil
- Water
- Soybean oil
- Gelatin
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Soy lecithin
- Natural and artificial flavors (based on variety)
How Mini Moonpies Fit into a Balanced Diet
For many, mini moonpies serve as a nostalgic and satisfying treat. Because of their smaller, controlled size, they can be more easily integrated into a diet than their larger counterparts. The key, as with any dessert, is moderation. Enjoying one mini moonpie as an occasional indulgence is very different from consuming several at a time. It is crucial to remember that snacks like these should not replace more nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, but rather serve as a minor component of a balanced dietary pattern.
For detailed ingredient and nutritional information directly from the source, you can visit the official MoonPie website.
Conclusion
In summary, a mini moonpie contains approximately 110 calories, a figure that is consistent across its most popular flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and banana. While offering a sweet treat, it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet due to its sugar and processed ingredient content. Its smaller size makes it an easily portioned option for a quick indulgence. By understanding its calorie count and nutritional details, you can make an informed choice that fits your dietary needs and preferences.
