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Understanding How Many Calories Are in Ground Almonds

4 min read

According to various nutritional sources, a 100g serving of ground almonds contains approximately 605 to 645 calories, making it a calorie-dense ingredient used in many recipes. This guide will detail exactly how many calories are in ground almonds and provide a comprehensive overview of their nutritional profile and health benefits.

Quick Summary

This article breaks down the caloric content of ground almonds across different serving sizes, from 100g to a single tablespoon. It provides a detailed look at their nutritional profile, compares them to almond flour, and suggests practical uses for this versatile, high-energy ingredient.

Key Points

  • High Calorie Density: A 100g serving of ground almonds contains approximately 605-645 calories, primarily from healthy fats.

  • Practical Serving Sizes: One tablespoon of ground almonds has about 30-50 calories, while a one-ounce serving contains 165-180 calories.

  • Rich in Nutrients: Ground almonds are an excellent source of protein, fiber, Vitamin E, and magnesium.

  • Ground Almonds vs. Almond Flour: Ground almonds (almond meal) are made from whole almonds and contain more fiber and antioxidants from the skin, while blanched almond flour has a finer texture.

  • Supports Weight Management: Despite being calorie-dense, the high protein, fiber, and fat content helps promote satiety and can assist in appetite control.

  • Versatile Ingredient: They can be used as a gluten-free flour alternative, breadcrumb substitute, or as a nutrient-rich addition to breakfasts and snacks.

In This Article

Ground Almonds: Calorie and Macronutrient Breakdown

Ground almonds, also known as almond meal, are a potent source of energy due to their high content of healthy fats. The exact calorie count can vary slightly between brands, but a standard reference provides a clear picture of their energy density.

Calories Per 100g

For a standard 100-gram serving, the calorie count for ground almonds typically falls within the 600-650 kcal range. For instance, some sources report 605 kcal per 100g, while others show up to 645 kcal. This can be attributed to natural variations in the almonds themselves or specific processing methods.

Calorie Count by Common Serving Sizes

For those tracking their intake more closely, looking at smaller serving sizes is more practical. Here is an approximation of the caloric content based on widely cited nutritional data:

  • One ounce (approx. 28g): Contains about 165–180 calories. This serving size also provides a significant portion of healthy fats, protein, and fiber.
  • One tablespoon (approx. 8–10g): Has around 30–50 calories. This is a common measurement for adding ground almonds to smoothies, oatmeal, or as a garnish.

Detailed Nutritional Profile of Ground Almonds

Beyond just calories, ground almonds offer a rich nutritional profile that includes a balanced mix of macronutrients and essential vitamins and minerals.

  • Healthy Fats: Ground almonds are high in monounsaturated fats, which are considered heart-healthy. These fats provide most of the calories and contribute to satiety, helping you feel fuller for longer.
  • Protein: They are an excellent source of plant-based protein, with a 1-ounce serving containing approximately 6 grams.
  • Fiber: With around 7-10 grams of dietary fiber per 100g, ground almonds support digestive health and help stabilize blood sugar levels.
  • Micronutrients: Ground almonds are packed with vital nutrients like Vitamin E, magnesium, manganese, and calcium, supporting everything from antioxidant protection to bone health.

Ground Almonds vs. Almond Flour: A Calorie Comparison

Many people confuse ground almonds with almond flour, but there is a key difference that affects their nutritional content.

Feature Ground Almonds (Almond Meal) Almond Flour (Blanched)
Processing Made from whole, unblanched almonds, including the skin. Made from blanched almonds, with the skin removed.
Calories Slightly higher per gram due to the fibrous skin. Slightly lower or comparable, depending on the grind and product.
Fiber Content Higher, as the almond skin contains extra fiber. Lower, because the fiber-rich skin is removed.
Nutrients Contains more antioxidants, fiber, and certain minerals found in the skin. The nutrient profile is still strong, but lacks the benefits from the skin.
Texture Coarser and more rustic texture. Finer, lighter, and more uniform texture.

Incorporating Ground Almonds into Your Diet

Given their nutritional density, ground almonds can be a fantastic addition to a balanced diet when used in moderation. Here are some popular ways to use them:

  • Gluten-Free Baking: As a replacement for traditional flour in cakes, cookies, and breads.
  • Breadcrumbs Substitute: Use as a low-carb alternative for coating chicken, fish, or vegetables.
  • Breakfast Boost: Sprinkle over oatmeal, yogurt, or blend into smoothies for added protein and fiber.
  • Energy Balls: Combine with dates, oats, and other nuts for a quick and healthy snack.
  • Thickening Agent: Use to thicken soups and sauces for a creamy texture and nutty flavor.

Practical Uses and Benefits

Ground almonds are not just a calorie source; they also offer significant health advantages:

  1. Supports Heart Health: The monounsaturated fats help lower 'bad' LDL cholesterol levels.
  2. Manages Blood Sugar: Their low glycemic index and high fiber content assist in blood sugar regulation.
  3. Aids Weight Management: The combination of fiber, protein, and fat promotes a feeling of fullness, which can help control appetite and calorie intake over time.
  4. Boosts Antioxidant Intake: The presence of Vitamin E and other antioxidants helps protect against oxidative stress.

Learn more about the many benefits of almonds from authoritative sources like the Almond Board of California.

Conclusion: The Calorie-Dense Power of Ground Almonds

In conclusion, ground almonds are a calorie-dense and nutrient-rich food, with a 100g serving containing over 600 calories, primarily from healthy fats. While they are a higher-calorie ingredient than many flours, their dense nutritional profile—including protein, fiber, and essential micronutrients—makes them a valuable addition to many diets. Understanding the calorie count for different serving sizes, as detailed here, allows for better portion control, especially for those managing their weight or following a ketogenic diet. Whether used for baking, cooking, or as a nutritional supplement, ground almonds provide a powerful health boost when consumed mindfully.

Ground almonds offer significant satiety and health benefits that outweigh their high calorie count, making them a strategic component of a balanced and wholesome diet. By using the information provided, you can make informed decisions about how to best incorporate them into your meals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, ground almonds are considered a calorie-dense food. A single 100g serving contains over 600 calories, mainly due to their high healthy fat content.

There is a minor calorie difference. Ground almonds (or almond meal) are made with the skin on and contain slightly more fiber, giving them a marginally higher calorie count per gram than blanched almond flour, which has the skin removed.

The calorie count for one tablespoon of ground almonds is generally around 30 to 50 calories, depending on the exact weight and fineness of the grind.

Yes, ground almonds are very suitable for a keto diet. They are low in net carbs and high in healthy fats, making them an ideal low-carb flour substitute for keto baking.

While calorie-dense, the high fiber, protein, and fat content in ground almonds promotes a feeling of fullness, which can help reduce overall calorie consumption and aid in weight management when consumed in moderation.

You can make your own ground almonds by pulsing raw, whole almonds in a food processor or high-speed blender until they reach a coarse, mealy consistency. Be careful not to over-process, or you'll end up with almond butter.

In addition to healthy monounsaturated fats, ground almonds are rich in protein, dietary fiber, Vitamin E, magnesium, and manganese. They also contain antioxidants from the almond skin.

References

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Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.