How Many Calories Are in Kozy Shack Rice Pudding?
When you're reaching for a sweet treat, understanding the nutritional information can be a key part of maintaining a balanced diet. For a single 4-ounce snack cup of the popular Kozy Shack Original Recipe Rice Pudding, you can expect 120 calories. This figure comes from the standard, gluten-free original recipe and is a common reference point for those tracking their intake.
The Full Nutritional Breakdown
Calories, however, only tell part of the story. A complete nutritional profile offers a better understanding of what you're consuming. Beyond the 120 calories, the Original Recipe snack cup also includes:
- Total Fat: 2g (3% DV)
- Saturated Fat: 1g (5% DV)
- Cholesterol: 15mg (5% DV)
- Sodium: 125mg (5% DV)
- Total Carbohydrates: 21g (8% DV)
- Sugars: 14g (including 9g of added sugars)
- Protein: 4g
- Calcium: 103mg (8% DV)
This breakdown shows that while it contains sugar, it also offers a modest amount of protein and calcium, derived from the reduced-fat milk used in its recipe. Kozy Shack prides itself on using simple, wholesome ingredients like rice, milk, eggs, and sugar in its original recipe.
Variations and Their Calorie Counts
Kozy Shack offers several varieties of rice pudding, and the calorie count can differ slightly between them. For example, the larger 22-ounce tub of the Original Recipe contains 130 calories per 1/2 cup serving. It is always best to check the nutritional label of the specific product you are purchasing, as serving sizes can vary. In addition to the original, the brand also offers a "Simply Well" version for those seeking a lower-calorie or no-sugar-added option. This version is a game-changer for those watching their intake more closely.
The 'Simply Well' Lower-Calorie Option
For those looking for a guilt-free indulgence, Kozy Shack's Simply Well Rice Pudding is a fantastic alternative. This version contains no added sugar and significantly fewer calories. A single snack cup of the Simply Well Rice Pudding comes in at just 90 calories, a notable reduction from the 120 calories in the original recipe. The ingredients and nutritional profile are adjusted to accommodate the reduced sugar content, making it a viable option for those monitoring their intake for health reasons or dietary restrictions. While the Simply Well line was described in 2009 as receiving mixed reviews in a taste test, it remains a popular choice for health-conscious consumers.
How Kozy Shack Rice Pudding Compares to Other Desserts
To put the calorie content of Kozy Shack rice pudding into perspective, here is a comparison table with some other common dessert options. This will help you understand where it fits in the landscape of sweet treats.
| Dessert (1/2 cup serving) | Calories (Approx.) | Saturated Fat (g) | Sugar (g) | Protein (g) | 
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kozy Shack Original Rice Pudding | 130 | 1.5 | 15 | 4 | 
| Kozy Shack Simply Well Rice Pudding | 90 | 1 | 5 | 4 | 
| Vanilla Ice Cream (Standard) | ~210 | 8 | 16 | 3 | 
| Standard Tapioca Pudding | 131 | 1 | 14-24 | 2 | 
| Chocolate Pudding (Kozy Shack) | ~140 | Not Specified | Not Specified | Not Specified | 
As the table illustrates, Kozy Shack rice pudding is often a lower-calorie and lower-fat choice compared to many standard ice creams, especially when considering the Simply Well version. However, it's worth noting that the sugar content can be comparable or higher than some other simple puddings, so checking the label remains crucial.
The Takeaway on Kozy Shack Calories
Ultimately, how many calories are in Kozy Shack rice pudding depends on the variety and serving size. The Original Recipe is a moderately caloric dessert at 120-130 calories per serving, offering some nutritional value like calcium and protein. The Simply Well version is a great option for those seeking a lower-calorie, no-sugar-added alternative at just 90 calories. While a comforting and tasty treat, it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet, keeping an eye on the sugar content.
Conclusion
In summary, Kozy Shack rice pudding provides a classic, comforting treat with varying calorie counts based on the specific product. The standard Original Recipe comes in at 120 calories for a snack cup, while the Simply Well no-sugar-added variety offers a lighter, 90-calorie option. While it provides some nutrients like calcium, its sugar content means it is best enjoyed in moderation. By checking the nutrition facts and choosing the right variety, you can easily fit this beloved dessert into your dietary plan.
For more detailed nutritional information and a full list of ingredients, you can always visit the official Kozy Shack website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kozy Shack rice pudding gluten-free?
Yes, the Original Recipe Rice Pudding from Kozy Shack is explicitly labeled as gluten-free.
What are the ingredients in Kozy Shack Original Rice Pudding?
The main ingredients are reduced-fat milk, rice, and cane sugar, with less than 2% of eggs, salt, and natural flavors.
Does Kozy Shack make a lower-sugar rice pudding?
Yes, Kozy Shack offers a Simply Well Rice Pudding with no added sugar, containing significantly less sugar and fewer calories than the original.
Can Kozy Shack rice pudding be part of a weight-controlled diet?
Yes, especially the lower-calorie Simply Well version, but it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced and varied diet due to its sugar content.
What is the serving size for Kozy Shack rice pudding?
The serving size can vary by product. For the multi-pack snack cups, a single cup is typically a 4-ounce serving, while larger tubs define a serving as 1/2 cup.
How does Kozy Shack compare to homemade rice pudding?
Homemade rice pudding recipes can vary widely, but commercial versions like Kozy Shack offer consistent, ready-to-eat convenience with defined nutritional information.
Is Kozy Shack rice pudding a good source of calcium?
Kozy Shack Original Recipe Rice Pudding provides some calcium (8% of the Daily Value per snack cup), but it is not a primary source of this nutrient.