A Closer Look at the Small DQ Cookie Dough Blizzard
A trip to Dairy Queen, for many, is a treat, and the cookie dough blizzard is a favorite. What is in that small cup? A detailed look at the nutritional information provides a fuller picture.
Core Ingredients and Nutritional Makeup
A small DQ cookie dough blizzard combines DQ's vanilla soft serve, chocolate chip cookie dough pieces, and a rich fudge topping. The calorie total results from these components, high in sugar and fat. The macronutrient content leans towards carbohydrates and fats.
- Total Calories: A small size contains around 710 calories. This is a substantial number for a single dessert, over a third of a typical 2,000-calorie daily diet. This can be important for those tracking their intake.
- Fat Content: A small cookie dough blizzard has approximately 28 grams of total fat, with 16 grams being saturated fat. Saturated fats contribute to higher cholesterol levels when consumed in excess. The amount in this treat makes up 80% of the daily value for saturated fat based on a 2,000-calorie diet.
- Sugar Overload: The dessert is high in sugar, with about 76 grams per small serving. This is roughly equivalent to 19 teaspoons of sugar. High sugar intake is associated with several health concerns, including weight gain and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.
- Carbohydrates and Protein: The carbohydrate count is high at around 103-104 grams, with protein at 12-13 grams. The overall nutritional profile is not balanced for a meal replacement and is better viewed as a caloric indulgence.
Calorie Comparison: Small DQ Blizzard vs. Other Treats
To put the calorie count of a small DQ cookie dough blizzard into perspective, comparing it to other desserts is helpful. This highlights how different treats contribute to daily caloric and nutritional goals.
| Dessert Item | Serving Size | Calories (Approx.) | Fat (g) (Approx.) | Sugar (g) (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small DQ Cookie Dough Blizzard | 12 oz | 710 | 28 | 76 |
| Small Chocolate Shake (DQ) | 12 oz | 560 | 15 | 81 |
| Small Vanilla Cone (DQ) | 5 oz | 230 | 7 | 27 |
| Medium Strawberry Blizzard (DQ) | 13.5 oz | 570 | 16 | 82 |
| Peanut Buster Parfait (DQ) | 10.75 oz | 730 | 31 | 85 |
| Oreo Reese's Blizzard (Small) | 12 oz | 760 | 290 fat cal | N/A |
Making Informed Choices
If you want a DQ blizzard while watching calorie intake, here are some tips:
- Size Matters: Choose the mini blizzard, which has a lower calorie count. The mini chocolate chip cookie dough blizzard contains around 420 calories, a significant reduction.
- Share with a Friend: Splitting a small blizzard can cut the calories and sugar in half, making it more manageable for two people.
- Explore Lighter Alternatives: Dairy Queen's menu includes lighter options, such as the Starkiss bar (80 calories) or a DQ Fudge Bar (50 calories).
- Consider the Occasion: View a cookie dough blizzard as an occasional indulgence. This helps maintain a healthy balance.
- Factor it into your day: Plan on having this treat, adjust other meals to be lower in calories, fat, and sugar to offset the indulgence.
Factors Affecting Blizzard Nutrition
Several factors can influence the blizzard's exact nutritional content, leading to slight variations between different data sources. These include regional recipes, portioning consistency, and variations in ingredient suppliers. Dairy Queen's nutritional information is generally the most accurate, but even that is typically an average.
Conclusion
Be mindful of the high calorie, fat, and sugar content. A small DQ cookie dough blizzard contains approximately 710 calories and a substantial amount of sugar. By understanding the nutritional facts, you can make more informed decisions about when and how to indulge. Always consult Dairy Queen's official nutrition guides or a reliable food tracking app for the most precise information.
