How Many Calories in a Maple Dip Donut? A Complete Nutritional Guide

November 4, 2025 •

4 min read

According to nutritional data from Tim Hortons, a single maple dip yeast donut can contain between 190 and 220 calories, depending on the region. The exact number of calories in a maple dip donut can vary significantly based on the bakery, donut size, and preparation method, making it essential to check specific nutritional labels.

Quick Summary

This article breaks down the caloric and nutritional information for maple dip donuts, explores why calorie counts differ by brand, and offers insight into healthier options and ingredients.

Key Points

Calorie Range Varies: Maple dip donut calories typically range from 190 to 270, influenced by the bakery and whether it's a yeast or cake donut.
High in Carbs and Sugar: The majority of a donut's calories come from carbohydrates and added sugars, particularly from the maple glaze.
Fat from Frying: Frying contributes a substantial amount of total fat and saturated fat to the donut.
Read the Label: Calorie counts are not universal, so checking brand-specific nutritional information is the most accurate way to know what you're eating.
Healthier Alternatives Exist: You can satisfy a sweet craving with more nutritious options like fruit, dark chocolate, or homemade baked goods.
Moderation is Key: As with most indulgences, enjoying a maple dip donut in moderation is the best approach for a balanced diet.

The Calorie Breakdown: Why Numbers Differ

Pinpointing an exact calorie count for a maple dip donut is difficult because it is not a standardized product. Variations arise from several factors, most notably the size of the donut, the recipe used, and whether it's a yeast or cake-style donut. Yeast donuts, which are typically lighter and fluffier, may have a different calorie structure than denser, cake-style donuts. Furthermore, the thickness and sweetness of the maple glaze can dramatically impact the total sugar and caloric content.

For example, a Tim Hortons Maple Dip Yeast Donut in the US is reported to have around 190 calories, while the same item in Canada may be listed closer to 220 calories, reflecting differences in product formulas or portion sizes. Generic or homemade donuts can vary even more, with some estimates putting them closer to 270 calories or more.

Factors Influencing Caloric Content

Yeast vs. Cake: Cake donuts tend to be more dense and absorb more fat during frying, potentially increasing calorie counts.
Glaze-to-Donut Ratio: A thicker, more sugary glaze adds significant calories and sugar.
Ingredients: Using premium ingredients like real maple syrup can change the nutritional profile compared to artificial maple flavoring and high-fructose corn syrup.
Preparation Method: Frying a donut in oil will inherently add more fat and calories than baking it, a common practice for homemade or healthier versions.

Nutritional Profile of a Typical Maple Dip Donut

Beyond calories, a maple dip donut contains other nutritional components worth considering. Here is a breakdown based on representative data from popular brands and generic estimates:

Total Fat: Typically ranges from 6 to 15 grams, with a portion of that being saturated fat from the frying process and ingredients. Some commercial versions report 6 grams, while others are closer to 15 grams.
Carbohydrates: The primary source of calories comes from carbohydrates, usually between 29 and 41 grams. This includes both the sugar in the glaze and the carbohydrates in the dough.
Sugars: The maple glaze and donut itself contribute to a high sugar content, often between 8 and 21 grams per donut. This can constitute a significant portion of a person's recommended daily sugar intake.
Protein: Donuts are not a good source of protein, typically containing only 3 to 4 grams.
Sodium: The donut's dough and glaze also contain sodium, with some products listing around 200 mg or more per serving.

Comparison Table: Maple Dip vs. Other Treats

To put the maple dip donut's caloric load into perspective, here is a comparison with other popular snacks. Please note that these are average estimates and can vary by product and brand.


Item	Approximate Calories	Approximate Sugars	Notes
Maple Dip Donut	190-270	8-21g	High in refined carbs and sugar.
Plain Glazed Donut	190-270	10-25g	Calorie content is similar, but can have more sugar.
Chocolate Glazed Donut	250-360	20-30g	Higher sugar and fat content on average.
Bowl of Berries & Yogurt	150-200	15-25g	Nutrient-dense, provides fiber and protein.
Whole Grain Muffin	200-300	10-20g	Better source of fiber if made with whole grains.

Healthier Alternatives for Your Sweet Cravings

If you're looking for a treat that satisfies your sweet tooth without the calorie density of a maple dip donut, there are several delicious and nutritious options.

Fruit: Naturally sweet fruits like berries, mangoes, or grapes can provide a sugar fix along with essential fiber and vitamins. Pair them with yogurt for a more filling snack.
Dark Chocolate: Opting for dark chocolate (70% cacao or higher) provides a rich, sweet taste with less sugar and more beneficial antioxidants than milk chocolate.
Baked Goods: Consider making your own baked goods at home, like whole-grain muffins or baked donuts. This gives you complete control over the ingredients, allowing you to reduce sugar and fat while increasing fiber.
Chia Seed Pudding: Chia seeds are high in fiber and omega-3s. Mixed with milk and a touch of natural sweetener, they create a satisfying, sweet, and healthy pudding.

For more ideas on healthier snacks, you can consult resources like Healthline, which outlines numerous alternatives for fighting sugar cravings.

Conclusion: The Balanced Approach to Enjoying Treats

A maple dip donut is a delicious indulgence, but its caloric and sugar content should be considered within a balanced diet. With an average calorie count ranging from 190 to over 270 depending on the brand and preparation, it is a significant contributor to your daily intake. Understanding the nutritional breakdown allows for informed choices. Enjoying these treats in moderation, or exploring some of the healthier alternatives discussed, is key to maintaining a healthy lifestyle without completely giving up the foods you enjoy.

Whether you decide to indulge or seek out a more nutritious option, acknowledging the nutritional impact is the first step toward mindful eating. With a variety of brands offering different products, checking specific nutrition information is always the most accurate approach to determine how many calories in a maple dip donut you're consuming.

Frequently Asked Questions

A Tim Hortons maple dip yeast donut contains approximately 190 to 220 calories, with slight variations depending on the region and specific product recipe.

Maple dip donuts are high in refined sugar, fat, and calories and low in beneficial nutrients like fiber and protein. While not inherently 'bad,' they are best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

The calorie counts are often similar, with a standard glazed donut also typically falling within the 190 to 270 calorie range, though specific sugar content can vary.

Yes, you can significantly reduce the calorie count by baking the donut instead of frying it. You can also control the amount of sugar in the glaze by using healthier sweeteners.

Cake donuts tend to be denser and may absorb more fat during frying, sometimes resulting in a slightly higher calorie count per gram compared to the lighter, airier yeast donuts.

Healthier alternatives include fresh berries with Greek yogurt, dark chocolate, baked whole-grain muffins, or a small handful of dates with nuts.

Yes, the type and thickness of the glaze are major factors. A maple dip donut's calorie count is significantly influenced by the sugary glaze, which adds a high concentration of calories from sugar.