The Crown of Calories: Crumbl's Record-Breaking Offerings
For anyone searching for the most calorically-dense cookie in the US, the answer almost always circles back to Crumbl Cookies, a viral sensation known for its giant, 6-ounce cookies and rotating flavor menu. The company has become notorious not only for its creative desserts but also for their hefty nutritional profiles. While many flavors regularly approach 1,000 calories, limited-time special editions have pushed the boundaries even further.
Notable High-Calorie Crumbl Cookies
- S'mores Brownie (Summer 2025): This limited-time dessert was reported to be one of the highest ever, at 1,240 calories, confirming the company's penchant for pushing the limits.
- Jimmy Fallon "Candy Cane Brownie" (Holiday 2024): This seasonal brownie-cookie hybrid was reported to be over 1,200 calories, causing an uproar on social media and highlighting Crumbl's high-calorie offerings.
- Biscoff® Pie (Variable): Another contender for the most caloric cookie, this flavor has been cited as reaching 1,130 calories per cookie, a testament to its rich ingredients.
These numbers illustrate that Crumbl's weekly menu often includes creations that can constitute a significant portion of an average adult's daily caloric intake. This is particularly concerning as the company's serving size, which is one-quarter of a cookie, is often overlooked by consumers.
Fast Food and Bakery Cookie Competition
While Crumbl is a dominant force in the high-calorie cookie space, other players also offer remarkably decadent options. Fast food chains and warehouse stores sometimes release equally large and indulgent cookies that compete for the title of the highest-calorie treat.
A Look at the Competition
- Panera Kitchen Sink Cookie: With 820 calories, this fast-food cookie includes multiple sweet and salty ingredients, contributing to its high-energy density.
- Costco's Double Chocolate Chunk Cookie: The warehouse giant made waves in early 2024 with the introduction of its new food court cookie, which boasts 750 calories per cookie, much to the surprise of its customers.
- Other Fast Food and Bakery Items: Brands like Subway and Chick-fil-A have cookies, but they generally fall into a much lower calorie range (220-350 calories), showing a stark contrast to the gourmet or specialty bakery cookies.
Comparison Table: High-Calorie Cookies in the US
| Cookie Item | Calories (Approx.) | Type | Noteworthy Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crumbl S'mores Brownie | 1,240 | Gourmet Bakery | Limited-time dessert, extremely high fat and sugar |
| Crumbl Biscoff® Pie | 1,130 | Gourmet Bakery | Rich Biscoff cookie butter, filling, and toppings |
| Panera Kitchen Sink | 820 | Fast-Food | Loaded with caramel, chocolate, and pretzels |
| Costco Double Chocolate | 750 | Warehouse Food Court | Large, dense chocolate chunk cookie |
| Subway Chocolate Chip | 220 | Fast-Food | Standard, smaller-sized cookie |
Why Are These Cookies So High in Calories?
The high-calorie nature of these cookies isn't a secret but rather a consequence of a few key factors. Primarily, the oversized portions and generous use of high-fat, high-sugar ingredients contribute to the final energy count. For instance, a Crumbl cookie often weighs 6 ounces, which is significantly larger than a standard homemade cookie.
Second, gourmet and fast-food cookies are frequently loaded with indulgent additions like buttercream frosting, rich ganache, extra chocolate chunks, or various candies, all of which substantially increase the calorie count. For example, a single Crumbl cookie can contain a full day's worth of saturated fat and more than half a day's worth of added sugar, as noted by the Center for Science in the Public Interest.
Furthermore, the sheer density of the cookie dough itself contributes to the high numbers. Recipes for these decadent cookies are often heavy on butter and sugar, creating a rich texture but also a massive caloric load. This combination of size, ingredients, and toppings is what makes certain cookies stand out as exceptional calorie bombs.
Understanding the Nutritional Landscape
While the calorie counts of these cookies are eye-opening, it's essential to put them into context. The average daily caloric intake for an adult is around 2,000 calories, but many of these single cookies can represent nearly half or more of that amount. For individuals not paying close attention to portion sizes, this can lead to overconsumption and potential health issues. This is especially true for companies that obscure serving sizes on their menus, as Crumbl has been accused of doing.
Experts have raised concerns that without clear labeling and consumer awareness, it is easy to underestimate the nutritional impact of these oversized desserts. For instance, a person who buys a box of four Crumbl cookies and shares it might be completely unaware that eating just one cookie constitutes a massive dietary splurge.
Enjoying these cookies in moderation is key, and treating them as an occasional treat rather than a regular snack is crucial for maintaining a balanced diet. Ultimately, knowing the nutritional facts empowers consumers to make informed decisions about their food choices.
Conclusion: A Sweet but Hefty Indulgence
Ultimately, when asking what is the highest calorie cookie in the US, the answer is often found on the ever-rotating menu of gourmet bakery chains like Crumbl. With limited-time desserts occasionally surpassing 1,200 calories, these oversized and ingredient-heavy treats easily claim the top spot. While delicious, their caloric density and massive portions require consumers to exercise moderation and awareness. By understanding the nutritional impact of these cookies, people can better manage their health while still enjoying a sweet indulgence from time to time. This knowledge allows for a more informed and balanced approach to dessert consumption in a market full of increasingly decadent offerings.
Note: Specific caloric information for limited-time items can vary, and it's always best to check the manufacturer's nutritional information for the most current data. Check out Crumbl's nutrition page for current information.