Thorntons, a brand with a rich history in British confectionery, has crafted its 'Heavenly Honeycomb' flavor into several product formats over the years. While the iconic high street stores have closed, the chocolates remain widely available in supermarkets and online, often within the popular Classic Collection. Understanding the calorie content is key for those mindful of their intake, and it varies significantly depending on whether you're enjoying an individual piece or a larger chocolate block.
The Heavenly Honeycomb Product Variations
For a truly accurate calorie count, it's essential to distinguish between the different Thorntons products that feature the heavenly honeycomb flavour. The most common forms are the individual chocolate found in the Classic Collection assortment boxes and the dedicated Honeycomb Milk Chocolate Block.
The Classic Collection Piece
The Classic Collection features a variety of chocolates, including the small, milk-chocolate-enrobed Heavenly Honeycomb, often decorated with a thin dark chocolate drizzle. Nutritional information shows that a single chocolate from this collection contains an estimated 61 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie treat, ideal for a quick indulgence.
The Honeycomb Milk Chocolate Block
For those who prefer a more generous serving, Thorntons also offers a Honeycomb Milk Chocolate Block. This product contains milk chocolate with crunchy honeycomb pieces scattered throughout. Nutritional data indicates this block contains approximately 531 calories per 100 grams, according to a product listing found on Amazon UK. This is a more substantial treat, and the portion size should be considered when looking at the overall calorie count.
Comparison of Thorntons Honeycomb Products
To help visualize the difference in nutritional information, here is a comparison table showcasing the calorie content and other key nutrients for both the individual classic piece and the larger block format.
| Nutrient | Classic Collection Piece (Approx. 10g) | Honeycomb Chocolate Block (Per 100g) | Standard Honeycomb (Plain, Per 100g) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Energy | ~40-61 kcal | ~531-532 kcal | 115 kcal |
| Fat | Not specified per piece | 30 g | 0 g |
| Carbohydrates | Not specified per piece | 58 g | 27 g |
| Protein | Not specified per piece | 6.3 g | 1.5 g |
Note: The nutritional information for the Classic Collection piece is an estimate based on the average weight of a chocolate and available per 100g data. The plain honeycomb is included for reference.
The Breakdown of Ingredients
The caloric density of Heavenly Honeycomb stems from its ingredients. The primary components are sugar, milk, and cocoa products, along with the distinctive honeycomb pieces. The classic assortment, which includes the Heavenly Honeycomb, also lists vegetable fats and emulsifiers like soya lecithin. While the honeycomb itself is primarily sugar and glucose, the chocolate coating adds significant fat and calories, contributing to its rich, indulgent flavour.
Calorie Contribution
- Sugar: As a primary ingredient, sugar provides a quick source of energy, contributing to a large portion of the overall carbohydrate and calorie count.
- Fat: The cocoa butter and vegetable fats in the chocolate coating are major contributors to the calorie content. Fat is more calorically dense than protein or carbohydrates, with nine calories per gram.
- Honeycomb: The crunchy honeycomb centre is made from sugar and glucose syrup, which adds to the carbohydrate count and provides the signature crispy texture.
The Role of Moderation
While enjoying a Thorntons Heavenly Honeycomb is a delicious treat, moderation is key due to the high sugar and fat content, particularly in the larger block format. Understanding the calories per piece allows for better control over portion sizes. For instance, enjoying one or two pieces from the Classic Collection is a far less calorific option than consuming a large portion of the chocolate block. Being aware of the nutritional details allows for a more informed choice, whether you're indulging in a special occasion or simply enjoying a sweet moment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the calorie count for a Thorntons Heavenly Honeycomb varies based on its format. A single piece from a Thorntons Classic Collection box is a more moderate treat at around 61 calories, while the larger Honeycomb Milk Chocolate Block contains approximately 531 calories per 100g. Both products offer the same delightful taste experience, but being mindful of portion size is crucial for managing your calorie intake. For more information on the full range of Thorntons products, you can explore their online store.
How to Find Nutritional Information
To be certain of the calorie count and other nutritional details for your specific product, it is always recommended to check the packaging, especially for newer batches. Supermarket websites like Tesco and Sainsbury's also provide nutritional information for the products they stock.
Alternative Treats
For those seeking a lower-calorie alternative, considering plain honeycomb (without the chocolate coating) or smaller, individually wrapped chocolates from other Thorntons assortments could be an option. However, for a true Heavenly Honeycomb experience, the original is the best choice, enjoyed in moderation.
