Good Times Corn Dog: The Calorie and Nutrient Breakdown
The Classic Corn Dog at Good Times contains 320 calories per serving. This total is derived from a breakdown of its macronutrients, primarily fats and carbohydrates. It is essential for anyone monitoring their diet to be aware of these figures, especially when balancing indulgent items with a healthy eating plan.
Classic Corn Dog Nutritional Information
For those interested in a deeper look at the Good Times Classic Corn Dog, here is a detailed nutritional breakdown:
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 19g (29% of Daily Value)
- Saturated Fat: 5g (25% of Daily Value)
- Cholesterol: 45mg (15% of Daily Value)
- Sodium: 700mg (29% of Daily Value)
- Total Carbohydrates: 27g (9% of Daily Value)
- Dietary Fiber: 1g (4% of Daily Value)
- Sugars: 9g
- Protein: 10g
This breakdown shows that over half of the calories come from fat, primarily due to the deep-frying process, while the batter contributes a significant amount of carbohydrates and sugar. The 10g of protein comes from the sausage core, though it also contributes to the item's overall fat and sodium content.
Comparison Table: Good Times Corn Dogs
While the Classic is the standard option, Good Times also offers a Kids' Corn Dog with a different calorie count. Here is a comparison to highlight the difference in nutritional content.
| Nutritional Aspect | Classic Corn Dog | Kids' Corn Dog |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 320 | 340 |
| Total Fat | 19g | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 27g | 33g |
| Sugars | 9g | 11g |
| Protein | 10g | 11g |
| Sodium | 700mg | 680mg |
It is interesting to note that the Kids' version has a slightly higher calorie count and more carbohydrates and sugar, despite being marketed for a smaller appetite. This is likely due to differences in the batter recipe or a larger hot dog being used in the Kids' meal than the name might suggest. It emphasizes the importance of checking nutritional information regardless of the portion size name.
Homemade vs. Restaurant Corn Dogs
When considering the nutritional profile of a Good Times corn dog, it can be helpful to compare it to homemade or other restaurant versions. For instance, a frozen corn dog prepared at home might have fewer calories. Some frozen brands contain around 190 calories per serving, though this can vary depending on the preparation method and brand. Deep frying a corn dog at a fair or carnival can also result in a significantly higher calorie count, sometimes exceeding 375 calories. By contrast, a homemade version using leaner sausage and an air fryer could potentially lower the calorie count while offering a similar taste experience. For those interested in a from-scratch recipe, resources like Allrecipes offer homemade corn dog instructions.
Managing Your Fast-Food Indulgence
For many, a corn dog is a fun, occasional treat, not a dietary staple. If you are going to enjoy a corn dog from Good Times, there are ways to balance it within a healthy lifestyle:
- Pair with healthier sides: Instead of french fries, consider ordering the corn dog with a salad or just having it on its own.
- Adjust other meals: On a day you have a higher-calorie lunch like a corn dog, you can plan for a lighter dinner with lean protein and vegetables.
- Consider condiments: Be mindful of added calories from condiments like ketchup or sugary sauces, as they can increase the total caloric load.
- Understand the impact: As a fried food, the corn dog is high in saturated fat and sodium. Being aware of these numbers helps you make conscious choices about how frequently you consume such items.
Conclusion
A Classic Corn Dog from Good Times contains 320 calories, with a notable contribution from fats and carbohydrates. While the Kids' version has a slightly higher calorie count at 340, both are best enjoyed in moderation. By understanding the nutritional breakdown and making informed choices about portion sizes and accompanying sides, you can fit this classic fast-food treat into your diet without derailing your health goals. Accessing the full nutritional information for fast-food items is a key step toward mindful eating.
Visit Good Times Burgers & Frozen Custard's official website for their menu