Nutritional breakdown of the Costco cheese danish
When you pick up a Kirkland Signature cheese danish from the Costco bakery, it's a satisfyingly large pastry. However, with that generous size comes a substantial nutritional profile. Beyond the 36 grams of sugar, it's important to understand the full picture to make informed dietary choices.
Full nutritional details per cheese danish
Based on available data from nutrition databases, a single Costco cheese danish provides the following information per piece:
- Calories: 500
- Total Fat: 27 grams
- Saturated Fat: 11 grams
- Trans Fat: 5 grams
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
- Sodium: 470 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 59 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 1 gram
- Sugars: 36 grams
- Protein: 7 grams
This breakdown reveals that the danish is not only high in sugar but also high in fat and calories. The 36 grams of sugar alone can exceed the daily recommended limit for many individuals, especially considering the added sugars rather than naturally occurring ones. It's also worth noting the high saturated and trans fat content, which health professionals recommend limiting.
A comparative look at popular Costco pastries
How does the cheese danish stack up against other baked goods from the same store? For a clearer perspective, here is a comparison table of several Costco bakery favorites.
| Pastry Item | Calories | Sugar (grams) | Saturated Fat (grams) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cheese Danish | 500 | 36 | 11 |
| Cherry and Cheese Danish Braid | Not specified per piece; ingredients confirm multiple sugar sources | Varies | Varies |
| Chocolate Croissant | 430 | 22 | 19 |
| Blueberry Muffin | ~520 | 34 | 12 |
| Almond Danish | ~400 | 36 | 12 |
Nutritional values for items other than the cheese danish are estimates based on various sources and can fluctuate with product changes.
As the table shows, the cheese danish is among the higher-sugar options, though its calorie and fat profile are comparable to other indulgent items like muffins and croissants. When making a choice, consumers should consider their overall dietary goals and how these numbers fit into their daily intake.
The composition of sweetness in a danish
The 36 grams of sugar in a Costco cheese danish don't come from a single source. The sweetness is a result of several ingredients working together to create its signature flavor. Understanding where this sugar comes from can provide valuable context.
Primary sources of sugar
- The Dough: The danish pastry dough itself is sweetened. While the main ingredient is flour, sugar is an essential component for both flavor and to aid the yeast in leavening.
- The Cream Cheese Filling: The classic sweet and tangy cream cheese filling contains a significant amount of sugar to balance the cheese's richness and tartness.
- The Icing/Streusel Topping: Many danishes, including the braided variety available at Costco, feature a sweet glaze or streusel topping. These decorative elements contribute substantially to the total sugar content.
Considering portion size and moderation
While 36 grams of sugar is a high number, it's also important to consider the size of the danish. These pastries are substantial, and the nutrition facts are based on a single serving, which is quite large for a breakfast pastry. If you are mindful of your sugar intake, sharing a danish or only eating half at a time could be an effective strategy. Combining the danish with other, more nutrient-dense breakfast options, like eggs or fruit, can also help balance a meal.
Conclusion
In summary, a single Costco cheese danish contains 36 grams of sugar, alongside 500 calories and 27 grams of fat. While a delicious treat, its high sugar, fat, and calorie content means it should be enjoyed sparingly. Understanding the complete nutritional profile allows you to make a more informed choice about how and when to indulge in this bakery favorite.
For more information on the effects of high sugar consumption, consult resources from health organizations. The American Heart Association, for example, offers guidance on recommended daily sugar limits. [https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/sugar/added-sugars]
Frequently asked questions
Q: Is there high-fructose corn syrup in a Costco cheese danish? A: Yes, according to a recent review, the braided cheese danish includes high-fructose corn syrup among its ingredients.
Q: How many calories are in a Costco cheese danish? A: A single Costco cheese danish contains 500 calories.
Q: Can you warm up a Costco cheese danish? A: Yes, it is recommended to warm the danish to enhance its texture. You can use an oven, microwave, or air fryer for a few minutes.
Q: Does a cheese danish contain trans fat? A: Yes, nutrition facts indicate a single Costco cheese danish contains 5 grams of trans fat.
Q: What is the recommended daily sugar intake? A: The American Heart Association recommends limiting added sugar to no more than 36 grams for most men and 25 grams for most women per day.
Q: Are Costco's cheese danishes made with real butter and cream cheese? A: Yes, reviews and ingredient lists for the Kirkland Signature cheese danishes confirm that they are made with both butter and real cream cheese.
Q: How can I reduce the sugar in a Costco cheese danish? A: The simplest way to reduce your intake is to share the danish with someone or save half for later, as the sugar is distributed throughout the entire pastry.
Q: How does the cheese danish's sugar compare to a blueberry muffin? A: The cheese danish (36g) has a slightly higher sugar content than the Kirkland Signature blueberry muffin (~34g).
