Finding the Lowest Calorie Small Blizzard
For many, a trip to Dairy Queen is not complete without a Blizzard. But when watching calories, the sheer variety and mix-ins can be intimidating. Based on recent nutritional data, the standard menu item with the lowest calorie count for a small Blizzard is the Banana Split Blizzard.
The Lowest Calorie Champion: Banana Split Blizzard
The Banana Split Blizzard stands out as the lowest calorie option on the standard menu for a small size, typically containing 460 calories. This is largely due to its fruit-based ingredients, which include fresh banana slices, strawberry and pineapple toppings, and chocolate sauce blended with Dairy Queen's vanilla soft serve. This combination offers a refreshing and flavorful treat without the heavier, higher-calorie mix-ins found in other Blizzards.
Other Low-Calorie Blizzard Options
While the Banana Split Blizzard may hold the top spot, other flavors offer relatively lower-calorie profiles compared to options loaded with fudge and brownie pieces. The Butterfinger Blizzard, for example, is also reported to be around 460 calories for a small size, making it a viable alternative for those who prefer a candy mix-in. The Strawberry Cheesecake Blizzard is another good choice, coming in at approximately 520 calories for a small. Seasonal or limited-time Blizzards can vary, but generally, those with simpler mix-ins or more fruit tend to be lower in calories.
Comparison of Popular Small Blizzards
To make an informed choice, here is a comparison of some popular small Blizzard flavors based on available nutritional information:
| Blizzard Flavor | Calories (Small) | Key Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Banana Split | 460 | Bananas, pineapple, strawberry, chocolate sauce | Lowest calorie option |
| Butterfinger | 460 | Butterfinger pieces | Candy-based alternative |
| Strawberry Cheesecake | 520 | Cheesecake pieces, strawberries | Fruit and cake-based |
| Reese's Peanut Butter Cup | 580 | Reese's PB cups | Higher in fat and sugar |
| Oreo Cookie | 620 | Oreo cookie pieces | Classic but higher calorie |
How to Further Reduce Blizzard Calories
Even when choosing a lower-calorie flavor, there are several ways to decrease the total calories and sugar in your Blizzard. These small changes can add up to a more diet-friendly indulgence.
- Choose a Mini Size: Opting for the mini size over the small is one of the most effective strategies. A mini can have significantly fewer calories, sometimes nearly half the amount of a small.
- Ask for Light Mix-ins: Request a lighter hand with the more calorie-dense ingredients, such as chocolate sauce, Reese's pieces, or brownie bits. A store might be able to accommodate this simple request.
- Prioritize Fruit: Focus on fruit-based Blizzards like the Banana Split or customize a simple vanilla soft serve with fruit toppings. Fruit toppings and syrups are often lower in calories than candy or cookie mix-ins.
- Hold the Whip: Many Blizzards are topped with whipped cream, which adds extra calories and sugar. Simply asking to omit this topping can help shave off some excess.
- Stick to the Basics: Consider ordering a regular soft-serve cone or cup instead of a Blizzard. A small vanilla cone, for instance, contains around 230 calories, a significantly lower-calorie alternative.
Conclusion
For those seeking the lowest calorie small blizzard, the Banana Split Blizzard is the best option on the standard menu. It provides a satisfying and flavorful experience while being the lightest choice. However, savvy consumers can also use simple customization strategies like downsizing to a mini, holding the whipped cream, and prioritizing fruit mix-ins to enjoy any Blizzard flavor with fewer calories. By being mindful of your choices, you can still treat yourself to a delicious Dairy Queen dessert without derailing your dietary goals. For specific nutritional information, always consult the official Dairy Queen nutrition guide online for the most current data. You can find the latest information on the official Dairy Queen website.