How many calories are in apple twists?

December 1, 2025 •

4 min read

Did you know the calorie count for an apple twist can vary dramatically, ranging from a low-calorie candy stick to a high-fat bakery pastry? Understanding the factors behind this difference is key to knowing how many calories are in apple twists and how to make a more informed choice.

Quick Summary

The calorie count of an apple twist varies widely based on type, from candy to pastry, as well as ingredients, size, and cooking method. Homemade and store-bought versions have distinct nutritional profiles.

Key Points

Significant Calorie Variation: The number of calories in an apple twist varies greatly based on whether it is a candy, a baked pastry, or a deep-fried pastry.
Baking vs. Frying: Baked apple twists typically have fewer calories and less fat than their deep-fried counterparts.
Candy Twists are Lower Calorie: Processed candy twists are often the lowest calorie option, though they primarily contain sugar with little nutritional benefit.
Homemade Offers Control: Making apple twists at home allows you to manage ingredients like sugar and fat, creating a potentially healthier version.
Serving Size Matters: Pay close attention to portion sizes, as different types of twists are sold in varying quantities, which directly impacts total calories.
Key Ingredients Affect Calories: High-calorie ingredients like butter, shortening, and heavy glazes are major factors in determining a pastry twist's total caloric content.

The Different Faces of the Apple Twist

When you ask "how many calories are in apple twists," the answer depends on which type you are referring to. The term can describe several different food items, each with a distinct nutritional profile. The three most common forms are candy twists, bakery pastries, and homemade versions.

Candy Apple Twists

These are often chewy, rope-like candies with a green apple flavor. As a processed candy, their calorie count comes primarily from sugar and corn syrup. For example, a serving of Switzer's Chewy Green Apple Twists contains 100 calories per 4 twists. Other similar products might have around 90 calories for a comparable serving size. These options are typically fat-free but are high in carbohydrates and sugar, offering little nutritional value beyond a quick energy boost. It's important to check the specific brand's label for accurate information, as serving sizes can differ.

Bakery and Pastry Apple Twists

Found in bakeries, donut shops, and grocery stores, these are a flaky, buttery delight. Their calorie content is substantially higher due to the pastry dough, butter, and often, a glaze or sugar topping. A baked version from a company like Cobs Bread, for instance, reports approximately 140 calories per serving. A Krispy Kreme Cinnamon Apple Filled Doughnut, which functions as a type of apple twist, contains 270-290 calories, highlighting the influence of fillings. Fried versions can be even higher. For comparison, a large, fried apple fritter, a similar pastry, is often estimated to have over 300 calories.

The Homemade Apple Twist

Making apple twists at home gives you complete control over the ingredients and preparation method, allowing you to tailor the calorie count. A recipe using premade dough, such as Pillsbury's Spicy Apple Twists, offers around 170 calories per serving. Baking at home can significantly reduce the fat and sugar compared to many store-bought varieties, especially fried ones. Using whole-wheat flour, less sugar, or alternative sweeteners can further lower the calorie load.

What Determines the Calorie Count?

Several factors can cause the calorie count of an apple twist to vary widely. By understanding these variables, you can make a more informed decision about your snack.

Cooking Method: Baking is almost always the healthier option compared to deep-frying. Frying a pastry in oil adds a significant number of calories from fat, while baking relies on the natural fats and sugars in the dough.
Ingredients: The type of flour, amount of butter or shortening, and the quantity of sugar or glaze are major determinants. A recipe heavy on sugar and fat will naturally be more caloric. A low-fat, low-sugar recipe will have fewer calories per serving.
Serving Size: This is a major factor, especially when comparing different types of apple twists. A single, large bakery twist will have far more calories than a few small pieces of candy apple twists, even if the candy has a higher sugar concentration per gram.
Fillings and Toppings: Additional fillings like apple pie filling, custards, or toppings like icing, sprinkles, and a cinnamon-sugar glaze will all contribute to the final calorie count. Using fresh apples instead of a pre-sweetened filling can help reduce sugar content.

Apple Twist Calorie Comparison Table


Type of Apple Twist	Estimated Calories	Key Calorie Factors	Example Source
Candy Apple Twist (e.g., Woody's Smokehouse)	~90 per 28g serving	Sugar, Corn Syrup
Baked Pastry Twist (e.g., Cobs Bread)	~140 per serving	Butter, Flour, Sugar
Krispy Kreme Doughnut (similar)	~290 per doughnut	Dough, Filling, Sugar, Glaze
Fried Bakery Pastry (estimated)	300-400+	Deep-fried, Sugar, Dough
Pillsbury Homemade Baked Twists	~170 per twist	Controlled ingredients, Baking

Creating a Healthier Apple Twist

For those who enjoy a delicious apple twist but want to manage their calorie intake, making a homemade version offers the most control. Here are some tips for a lighter option:

Opt for Baking: Always choose to bake instead of fry. Baking requires less added oil and results in a less calorie-dense product.
Reduce Sugar: Use less added sugar in the filling and dough. You can also swap granulated sugar for a calorie-free substitute or reduce the amount of glaze.
Add Fiber and Whole Grains: Incorporate whole-wheat flour or other fiber-rich ingredients, which can help increase satiety and lower the overall caloric density. A recipe for low-calorie apple strudel uses phyllo dough, a thinner pastry option.
Control Portion Size: Cut your homemade twists into smaller, more manageable portions to enjoy the flavor without overdoing it on calories.
Use Fresh Apples: Use fresh, diced apples with a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg for flavor instead of pre-sweetened pie filling.

Conclusion

Determining how many calories are in apple twists is not a one-size-fits-all answer. The calorie content varies significantly depending on whether you're eating a low-fat candy, a baked bakery pastry, a deep-fried dough, or a homemade creation. While a candy twist offers the lowest calorie count, it often provides little nutritional value. Bakery pastries, especially fried ones, can be substantial in calories due to high fat and sugar content. The homemade route provides the best control over ingredients and preparation, allowing you to create a delicious and satisfying treat that aligns with your dietary needs. By considering the type and preparation, you can make a mindful choice that fits into a balanced diet.

For more healthy baking ideas, you can explore lighter alternatives like these Spicy Apple Twists or similar recipes that prioritize fresh fruit and baking over frying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Generally, a baked apple twist is a healthier option than a fried apple fritter, as fritters are deep-fried and often larger, containing more fat and calories. However, the specific preparation and ingredients matter significantly.

To make a lower-calorie version, opt for baking over frying, reduce the amount of sugar, use whole-grain flour, and control portion sizes. Using a recipe like a low-fat strudel or Weight Watchers turnover can also guide you toward a lighter result.

Yes, chewy candy apple twists are typically lower in calories per serving compared to bakery pastries. For example, some brands offer servings for around 90-120 calories, but these calories come mostly from sugar.

The calorie difference is substantial, primarily due to the fat absorbed during frying. While a baked twist might be around 140-170 calories, a comparable fried pastry can be over 300-400 calories.

Yes, serving size is a critical factor. A single, large bakery twist will have far more calories than a small candy twist, even if the calorie density per gram is different. Always consider the portion size when evaluating nutritional information.

The ingredients that add the most calories are typically those high in fat and sugar, including butter, shortening, oil from frying, and sugary glazes or fillings.

Yes, swapping traditional white flour for whole-wheat flour or using a resistant starch can contribute to calorie reduction while adding fiber. However, the largest calorie savings come from reducing fat and sugar.

No, most commercially prepared apple twists are not a good source of overall nutrition. While they may offer some flavor from the fruit, their high sugar and fat content often outweigh any potential health benefits, especially compared to eating a fresh apple.