Calories In Slice Of Apple Pie vs Pumpkin

Direct Answer: A slice of apple pie typically has around 296 calories, while pumpkin pie is about 245 calories per 100 grams.

The caloric content of a slice of apple pie versus a slice of pumpkin pie can depend on several factors, including the size of the slice, the specific recipe used, and the type and quantity of ingredients. On average, a slice of apple pie may contain around 296 calories, largely due to the sugar in the filling and the butter in the crust. Pumpkin pie, on the other hand, is often slightly lower in calories, with a typical slice containing approximately 245 calories. This is generally because pumpkin pie filling is less dense and often contains less sugar than apple pie filling. However, these figures can vary significantly depending on the recipe.

What Is Apple Pie?

Apple pie is a classic dessert that originated in Europe and is particularly associated with American cuisine. It is made by filling a pie crust with sliced or diced apples that are usually mixed with sugar, spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and often a bit of flour or cornstarch for thickening. The apples are then covered with a top crust, which can be a full crust, a lattice, or other decorative forms. The pie is baked until the crust is golden and the apple filling is bubbling and tender. Apple pie is often served warm and can be accompanied by ice cream or whipped cream.

What Is Pumpkin Pie?

Pumpkin pie is a traditional sweet dessert, often associated with the autumn and winter holidays. The pie filling is made from pumpkin puree, sweetened with sugar or honey, and flavored with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. This mixture is combined with eggs and a form of milk (often condensed or evaporated) to create a smooth, custard-like filling. This is then poured into a pie crust and baked until set. Pumpkin pie is commonly served chilled or at room temperature, often with a dollop of whipped cream on top.

<How Many Calories Are In Apple Pie?

A standard slice of apple pie contains around 296 calories, with 14 grams of total fat and 43 grams of carbohydrates. Saturated fat content is 4.7 grams, while sugars constitute about 20 grams.

Why Is Apple Pie High In Calories?

A major portion of apple pie’s calories come from sugar – both from the natural sugar in apples and the added sugars from the recipe. The pie crust, typically made with butter, vegetable shortening, or margarine, contributes significantly to the calorie count.

Nutritional Facts Of Apple Pie

Caloric Content: A single serving of apple pie (1/8 of a 9″ diameter pie or approximately 125 grams) contains about 296 calories. This counts towards the energy you consume for the day.

Fats: The total fat in one serving of apple pie is around 14 grams, about 18% of the recommended daily value.

• It contains 4.7 grams of saturated fat, accounting for about 24% of the daily value. Saturated fats are the “less healthy” fats, often associated with higher cholesterol levels.
• The polyunsaturated fat content stands at 2.7 grams. These are the “good fats” which can improve heart health.
• Monounsaturated fats, also considered good fats, make up 5.5 grams of the serving.

Cholesterol: Apple pie serving contains no cholesterol. High levels of cholesterol can lead to heart disease.

Sodium: Sodium content is approximately 251 milligrams, which is about 11% of the daily value. Sodium is essential for maintaining fluid balance in the body, but too much can lead to high blood pressure.

Carbohydrates: Total carbohydrates in a serving are about 43 grams, about 16% of the daily value. Carbohydrates provide the body with its primary energy source.

• Dietary fiber is approximately 2 grams (7% of the daily value). Fiber is essential for a healthy digestive system.
• Sugars constitute 20 grams of the serving. While sugars provide quick energy, excess consumption can lead to health issues like diabetes and obesity.

Protein: The protein content is about 2.4 grams. Proteins are essential for body repair and growth.

Vitamins and Minerals: This serving of apple pie does not contribute to your daily Vitamin D intake.

• It provides 14 milligrams of Calcium (about 1% of the daily value) that’s vital for strong bones and teeth.
• Iron content is about 0.6 milligrams (around 3% of the daily value). Iron is critical for healthy blood cells.
• Potassium content is approximately 81.3 milligrams, which supports heart and muscle functions.

Understanding The Nutritional Facts Of Pumpkin Pie

Caloric Content: One cup (about 245 grams) of canned pumpkin, which is a common ingredient in pumpkin pie, contains around 137 calories. These contribute to the daily caloric intake necessary for your body’s energy.

Protein: The protein content stands at about 3 grams. Proteins are vital building blocks for muscles, skin, bones, and the body in general.

Fats: This serving contains 7 grams of fat. Fats are essential for absorbing vitamins and protecting your organs.

Carbohydrates:

• The total carbohydrate content is 19 grams. Carbohydrates are the body’s main energy source.
• It offers 7 grams of dietary fiber. Dietary fiber aids in digestion and keeps you feeling full longer, which can help manage weight.

Vitamins:

• Vitamin A content is remarkably high at 209% of the daily value. Vitamin A is crucial for good vision, a healthy immune system, and cell growth.
• The Vitamin K content is about 37% of the daily value. Vitamin K helps with blood clotting and bone health.
• Vitamin E stands at 22% of the daily value. This vitamin acts as an antioxidant, protecting your cells from damage.
• The riboflavin (Vitamin B2) and Vitamin B6 contents each contribute to 10% of the daily value. These vitamins are important for energy production and brain function.
• Vitamin C is about 10% of the daily value. Vitamin C is crucial for skin health and immune function.

Minerals: The pie contains copper, constituting 28% of the daily value. Copper helps with producing red blood cells and maintaining nerve cells and the immune system.

• Iron content is around 18% of the daily value. Iron is necessary for the growth and development and maintaining healthy cells.
• Magnesium provides about 13% of the daily value. This mineral is necessary for muscle and nerve function, blood sugar control, and blood pressure regulation.
• Potassium content contributes to 10% of the daily value. Potassium is essential for heart health and fluid balance.

Apple Pie vs. Pumpkin Pie:

Vitamins :

• Apple Pie: This pie takes the lead in Vitamin B1 and Vitamin B2. These vitamins are essential for energy production and maintaining healthy cells.
• Pumpkin Pie: Undeniably, the hero of Vitamin A RAE, with its daily coverage being 29% higher than that of apple pie. Vitamin A is critical for eye health, immune function, and cell growth.

Fats :

• Apple Pie: Apple pie is the champion of both monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. With 2.198 grams of polyunsaturated fats, it has a whopping 550 times more than pumpkin pie. These “good fats” play a vital role in reducing bad cholesterol levels and providing nutrients to help develop and maintain your body’s cells.
• Pumpkin Pie: Though falling behind in the fat department, pumpkin pie offers a less fat-intensive dessert choice.

Minerals :

• Apple Pie: In the mineral comparison, apple pie stands out for its iron content, which is critical for the creation of blood cells.
• Pumpkin Pie: A more balanced mineral content, including a lower sodium content which is beneficial for maintaining healthy blood pressure.

Cost :

The cost of the pies can vary significantly depending on factors such as the quality of ingredients used and the location of purchase. Typically, apple pie might be slightly cheaper due to the affordability and accessibility of apples. However, during fall when pumpkins are in season, the cost can be comparable.

Which Is Healthier? Apple Pie Or Pumpkin Pie?

Pumpkin pie is often considered the healthier option between the two. This is because pumpkin pie typically has a lower calorie count and contains more nutrients due to the pumpkin puree, which is rich in vitamin A and fiber. However, both pies contain sugar and fat, especially in the crust, so neither is a low-calorie or low-fat food. As with any dessert, both should be eaten in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

FAQs

Is apple pie healthier than cake?

It depends on the specific recipe of the cake. However, apple pie typically has higher calories due to its sugar and fat content.

How many calories should I burn a day?

The answer varies depending on age, sex, activity level, and weight goals. Women need to burn around 2000 calories daily to maintain weight, while men need about 2500.

Which is the healthiest pie to eat?

Pumpkin pie is usually considered one of the healthier pies due to its lower calorie and high vitamin A content.

Are some kinds of pie lower in calories than others?

Yes, pies with more fruit content and less added sugar, like berry or peach pies, tend to be lower in calories.

Is apple crisp healthier than apple pie?

Apple crisp may be slightly healthier than apple pie as it usually contains less sugar and fat due to the absence of a traditional pie crust.

Conclusion

Both apple pie and pumpkin pie contain a significant number of calories, with a typical slice of apple pie containing around 290-300 calories and pumpkin pie having slightly fewer, around 240-250  calories per slice. However, the actual caloric content can vary based on the size of the slice and the specific recipe used. It’s important to enjoy these delicious desserts mindfully and in moderation as part of a balanced diet. As with all foods, while it’s good to be aware of calorie content, the enjoyment and tradition of holiday pies can be a valuable part of celebrations as well.

Key Notes:

• A slice of apple pie has around 296 calories.
• A 100-gram serving of pumpkin pie contains about 26 calories.
• Pumpkin pie has less sodium and is richer in Vitamin A than apple pie.
• Both pies can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.