Understanding the Calorie Differences in Comstock Cherry Pie Filling
When it comes to baking and dessert toppings, Comstock cherry pie filling is a popular and convenient choice. However, not all cans of Comstock are created equal in terms of nutritional content. The calorie count can differ significantly between the standard 'Original Country' recipe, the lower-calorie 'Lite' version, and the even leaner 'No Sugar Added' option. Acknowledging these differences is crucial for anyone monitoring their calorie or sugar intake.
Comparing Comstock Cherry Pie Filling Varieties
To fully understand the nutritional landscape, it is helpful to look at the details for each variety. The primary difference is the amount of sugar, which directly impacts the total calorie count. While the Original Country version relies on high fructose corn syrup for its sweetness, the other versions use artificial sweeteners or simply less sugar to achieve a lower calorie profile.
Comstock Cherry Pie Filling Varieties and Their Nutrition
- Comstock Original Country Cherry Pie Filling: The standard option, offering a classic flavor profile. A 1/3 cup serving contains approximately 90 calories, with around 19 grams of sugar.
- Comstock Lite Cherry Pie Filling: A reduced-calorie option for those seeking a lighter alternative. With about 60 calories per 1/3 cup serving, it contains 14 grams of sugar.
- Comstock No Sugar Added Cherry Pie Filling: The lowest-calorie version, sweetened with sucralose instead of sugar. A 1/3 cup serving has only about 30-35 calories and 3-4 grams of sugar.
Nutritional Information Breakdown
Beyond just calories, a deeper look into the nutritional facts can provide a clearer picture of what you are consuming. The primary macronutrient in all versions is carbohydrates, consisting almost entirely of sugars in the sweetened varieties.
Key Nutritional Comparisons (per 1/3 cup serving)
| Nutrient | Original Country | Lite Cherry | No Sugar Added |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 90 | 60 | 30-35 |
| Total Fat | 0g | 0g | 0g |
| Carbohydrates | 23g | 15g | 7-8g |
| Total Sugars | 19g | 14g | 3-4g |
| Protein | 0g | 0g | 0g |
| Sodium | 25mg | 15mg | 10mg |
Understanding the Ingredients
The ingredients list further explains the caloric disparity. The high-fructose corn syrup in the original and lite versions is the main source of the higher sugar and calorie content. In contrast, the no-sugar-added variety replaces this with a non-caloric sweetener like sucralose, leading to a much lower overall calorie count. All versions are essentially fat-free, making the sugar content the key factor in their calorie differences.
How to Use Comstock Fillings Mindfully
Managing calorie intake doesn't mean you have to forgo delicious desserts. You can make mindful choices by opting for the lower-calorie versions or by being aware of serving sizes. Here are a few tips:
- Choose the right variety: For pies or cobblers, using the No Sugar Added or Lite options can significantly reduce the calories in the final dessert.
- Portion control: Be mindful of the 1/3 cup serving size. Toppings for ice cream, yogurt, or oatmeal are a great way to enjoy the flavor in smaller, controlled portions.
- Add your own modifications: Consider mixing a portion of the original filling with extra fresh cherries to balance sweetness and bulk up the fruit content without adding as much sugar.
Creative, Calorie-Conscious Recipes
Comstock pie filling can be used in a variety of desserts beyond just a traditional pie. Exploring these options can be a fun way to enjoy the filling while keeping an eye on your calorie consumption. For example, a simple parfait with low-fat yogurt and a small dollop of the no-sugar-added filling is a guilt-free treat.
For more dessert ideas using canned fillings, you can explore recipes online. The site Allrecipes often features creative ideas for desserts using various canned fruit fillings.
Conclusion
While a 1/3 cup serving of Comstock Original Country Cherry Pie Filling has 90 calories, this number is not representative of all Comstock cherry pie filling products. The company offers Lite and No Sugar Added options that provide significantly lower calorie counts for those seeking healthier alternatives. By being aware of the specific product's nutrition label and practicing mindful portion control, you can still enjoy the sweet, rich flavor of cherry pie filling as part of a balanced diet.
