How many calories are in a profiterole?

November 30, 2025 •

4 min read

The calorie count of a single profiterole can vary widely, with estimates ranging from 30 to over 200 calories, depending on size, filling, and topping. A typical, store-bought chocolate profiterole might contain around 70 calories, but a large, homemade version with custard and thick chocolate sauce will be significantly higher. This variation highlights why understanding the different components is crucial for an accurate count.

Quick Summary

Calorie content for a profiterole varies significantly based on size, filling type, and topping. Standard cream-filled, chocolate-sauced versions have higher counts, while smaller or healthier alternatives are available. Customization impacts the final nutritional value.

Key Points

Variable Calorie Count: A single profiterole's calories can range from 70 to over 200, depending heavily on its size, filling, and toppings.
Fillings are Key: The type of filling—whipped cream, crème pâtissière, or ice cream—is the most significant factor affecting the overall calorie count.
Toppings Add Up: Rich chocolate ganache or caramel sauce can add substantial calories, while lighter options like fruit coulis reduce the total.
Lighter Options Exist: For a healthier alternative, modify the filling with Greek yogurt or ricotta and use a light sauce or powdered sweetener.
Portion Control is Paramount: Regardless of the recipe, the number of profiteroles consumed is the most important factor for managing calorie intake.

What is the average calorie count for a profiterole?

Because of the vast array of preparation methods, a single, definitive answer to the question "how many calories are in a profiterole?" is impossible. However, an average, medium-sized, cream-filled profiterole with a light chocolate sauce is typically between 70 and 150 calories. For example, a major supermarket brand's version might weigh around 18g and contain 70kcal, whereas a larger, gourmet dessert could easily reach 200kcal or more.

Breaking down the calories: Choux pastry, filling, and toppings

The final calorie count is the sum of its parts. Each component of the profiterole contributes to the total nutritional value, with fat and sugar being the primary calorie sources.

Choux Pastry (the puff): The pastry itself is made from butter, water, flour, and eggs. An average, homemade choux pastry can contain around 300-350 calories per 100g, but the weight of an individual puff is very small. For a standard-sized puff, the pastry alone is a relatively minor contributor to the overall calorie total.

Filling (the cream): This is where a large portion of the calories are added. Traditional fillings include sweetened whipped cream or crème pâtissière (pastry cream). The calorie density of these fillings differs dramatically:

Whipped Cream: Simple whipped cream has fewer calories per volume than custard.
Crème Pâtissière: Made with milk, eggs, sugar, and flour, this custard-like filling is denser and more caloric. A typical vanilla pastry cream could have over 100 calories per serving.
Ice Cream: Using ice cream as a filling, particularly for larger profiteroles or for a dessert called croquembouche, significantly increases the calorie count.

Topping (the sauce): The final topping, usually a chocolate sauce, also adds a considerable number of calories. A generous drizzle of chocolate ganache or a thick syrup will push the final count higher than a lighter dusting of icing sugar. Some versions also feature caramel sauce or a praline topping, both of which are high in sugar and fat.

Comparison table: Calorie variations in profiteroles


Profiterole Type	Filling	Topping	Estimated Calorie Range (per piece)	Key Differences
Small, store-bought	Sweetened Cream	Light Chocolate Drizzle	70-100 kcal	Smaller size, pre-portioned, standardized recipe
Gourmet or large cafe	Crème Pâtissière	Thick Chocolate Ganache	150-250+ kcal	Larger size, richer filling and topping, higher quality ingredients
Homemade	Whipped Cream	Icing Sugar	80-120 kcal	Can be controlled, simpler ingredients, less fat than custard filling
Ice cream-filled	Vanilla Ice Cream	Chocolate Sauce	200-300+ kcal	Higher fat and sugar from ice cream, often larger portion sizes

How to make a lower calorie profiterole

For those watching their calorie intake, there are several ways to enjoy a lighter version of this classic French pastry. The modifications primarily involve reducing the fat and sugar content without sacrificing the classic texture and flavor.

Modify the filling: Instead of traditional crème pâtissière, opt for a lighter filling. A simple vanilla-infused Greek yogurt mixed with a low-calorie sweetener can provide the creaminess without the heavy fat and sugar. A whipped ricotta filling is another excellent option, offering a rich texture with a lower calorie count.
Change the topping: Instead of a thick, calorie-dense ganache, consider a lighter alternative. A fresh fruit coulis or a simple dusting of powdered sweetener can provide flavor without the added calories. If chocolate is a must, a thin drizzle of a low-sugar chocolate sauce will reduce the impact.
Control the portion size: Simply making smaller profiteroles is the most straightforward method. A few mini-profiteroles can satisfy a sweet craving with fewer calories than one large one.
Use healthier ingredients in the choux pastry: While the choux pastry itself is not the biggest contributor, healthier modifications can still be made. Using a sugar substitute and a low-fat milk can marginally reduce the overall calories.

The importance of portion control

Regardless of the recipe, portion control remains the single most important factor when consuming high-calorie treats like profiteroles. Enjoying one or two small, decadent profiteroles is far better for your calorie budget than overindulging in a larger quantity, even if each piece is slightly lighter. Understanding the nutritional breakdown empowers you to make informed choices. For detailed nutritional guidelines, consult a resource like the NHS website.

Conclusion

In summary, how many calories are in a profiterole is not a fixed number, but a range determined by size, filling, and topping. While some smaller, pre-packaged versions can be as low as 70 calories, richer, homemade, or gourmet versions can easily exceed 200. By being mindful of the ingredients and practicing portion control, you can enjoy this classic dessert without derailing your dietary goals. Opting for lighter fillings or toppings can further reduce the calorie load, making profiteroles a guilt-free indulgence for any occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Profiteroles are moderately to high in calories for a dessert, primarily due to their fat and sugar content from ingredients like butter, cream, and chocolate sauce. They should be consumed in moderation, especially if watching your calorie intake.

Store-bought profiteroles often have a more standardized, moderate calorie count. Homemade versions can vary more widely, potentially being higher if made with richer, denser fillings and sauces, but can also be made lighter with calorie-conscious substitutions.

To reduce calories, you can use lighter fillings like whipped Greek yogurt or ricotta, and opt for a low-sugar or fruit-based topping instead of a heavy chocolate sauce.

Yes, a thick, rich chocolate ganache will add more calories than a light drizzle of simple chocolate sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar. The calorie difference can be significant.

The choux pastry shell itself is relatively low in calories compared to the filling and topping. Per 100g, cooked choux pastry has around 332 calories, but an individual shell weighs very little.

Yes, for a healthier alternative, consider fruit-based desserts or a light pudding. However, with modifications like lighter fillings and controlled portions, a profiterole can be enjoyed as a treat.

The calorie count for a profiterole tower is extremely high and depends on the number of profiteroles, the type of filling, and the amount of caramel or other toppings used. Since it's a large, multi-serving dessert, you would need to calculate the calories per serving based on the total.