Are you in search of a delicious and healthy snack option? Look no further than Coconut Praline Pecans! With only 140 calories per 1/4 cup (28g) serving, these sweet treats pack a flavorful punch while still being guilt-free.
Not only are they low in calories, but Coconut Praline Pecans are also a great source of healthy fats and contain a variety of essential nutrients. Let's take a closer look at what makes these nuts so special.
In this article, we'll delve into the calories, fat content, sodium content, carbohydrate content, protein content, vitamins and minerals, and health benefits of Coconut Praline Pecans. We'll also provide some suggestions for how to enjoy them, as well as some healthy alternatives. So, let's get cracking!
What is Coconut Praline Pecans?
Coconut Praline Pecans are a tasty snack made by coating pecans in a mixture of sugar, coconut, and spices. The result is a sweet, crunchy, and nutty treat that is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. These pecans are a common ingredient in many desserts and can be used to add flavor and texture to cakes, pies, and ice creams. However, they are also a delicious snack option on their own, perfect for munching while watching your favorite show or movie.
Calories in Coconut Praline Pecans
As previously mentioned, a 1/4 cup (28g) serving of Coconut Praline Pecans contains approximately 140 calories. This makes them a great snack option for anyone watching their calorie intake, as long as they're consumed in moderation. To put this into perspective, a regular 1-ounce serving of potato chips contains around 150 calories, with little nutritional value to show for it. Coconut Praline Pecans, on the other hand, also provide essential nutrients like healthy fats, fiber, and protein.
Fat Content
Coconut Praline Pecans are relatively high in fat, with a 1/4 cup (28g) serving containing around 13 grams of fat. However, the majority of this fat is from healthy sources like monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. These types of fats are essential for maintaining good health, as they can help to lower bad cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation, and even aid in weight loss. Plus, the fat content in Coconut Praline Pecans helps to make them a filling and satisfying snack option.
Sodium Content
One of the downsides of many snack foods is their high sodium content. Thankfully, this isn't the case with Coconut Praline Pecans, which contain only 5 milligrams of sodium per 1/4 cup (28g) serving. This makes them a great option for anyone on a low-sodium diet, as well as for anyone who wants to avoid the bloating and water retention that can come from consuming too much salt.
Carbohydrate Content
Coconut Praline Pecans are relatively low in carbohydrates, with a 1/4 cup (28g) serving containing around 8 grams of carbs. This makes them a great option for anyone following a low-carb or keto diet. Plus, the majority of the carbs in Coconut Praline Pecans come from fiber, which is an essential nutrient that promotes digestive health, keeps you feeling full, and can even aid in weight loss.
Protein Content
Coconut Praline Pecans are also a good source of protein, with a 1/4 cup (28g) serving containing around 2 grams of protein. While this may not seem like a lot, it can help to keep you feeling full and satisfied between meals. Additionally, protein is important for maintaining and building muscle mass, as well as for repairing tissues throughout the body.
Vitamins and Minerals
Coconut Praline Pecans are a good source of several essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, magnesium, and manganese. Vitamin E is an important antioxidant that can help to protect your cells from damage, while magnesium is important for maintaining healthy bones and muscles. Manganese, on the other hand, plays a role in various bodily processes, including metabolism and wound healing.
Health Benefits
There are several potential health benefits associated with consuming Coconut Praline Pecans. For example, the healthy fats in these nuts can help to lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation throughout the body. Additionally, the fiber in Coconut Praline Pecans can promote digestive health and aid in weight loss, while the protein can help to maintain and build muscle mass. Overall, adding Coconut Praline Pecans to your diet in moderation can be a great way to enhance your health and wellbeing.
How to Enjoy Coconut Praline Pecans
While Coconut Praline Pecans are tasty on their own, there are several ways to enjoy them as part of a healthy diet. One option is to sprinkle them over your morning oatmeal or yogurt for a sweet and crunchy breakfast treat. Another option is to use them in baking, such as adding them to cookies, breads, or muffins. This can add some extra flavor and texture to your baked goods, while still keeping them relatively healthy. You can also use Coconut Praline Pecans as a topping for salads, roasted vegetables, or even stir-fries. The possibilities are endless!
Healthy Alternatives
While Coconut Praline Pecans are a delicious and healthy snack option, they may not be for everyone. If you're allergic to nuts, for example, you'll need to find an alternative snack option. Thankfully, there are plenty of other healthy snack options out there, such as fresh fruit, vegetables with hummus, or air-popped popcorn. You can also make your own trail mix with dried fruit, seeds, and low-sodium nuts like almonds or cashews. The key is to find a snack that you enjoy and that provides some nutritional value without being too high in calories or unhealthy ingredients.
Healthy snacking doesn't have to be boring or tasteless. With Coconut Praline Pecans, you can indulge in a sweet and crunchy treat without ditching your healthy eating plan.
5 FAQs About Coconut Praline Pecans
1. What are Coconut Praline Pecans?
Coconut praline pecans are a type of snack or dessert made with pecans coated in a sweet and crunchy mixture of caramelized sugar, coconut flakes, and other ingredients. They are a popular treat during the holiday season but can be enjoyed year-round.
2. How many calories are in a 1/4 cup serving of Coconut Praline Pecans?
There are 140 calories in a 1/4 cup (28 g) serving of Coconut Praline Pecans. However, this can vary depending on the brand and recipe used to make them.
3. Are Coconut Praline Pecans healthy?
While Coconut Praline Pecans do contain some healthy ingredients such as pecans, which are a good source of protein and healthy fats, they are also high in sugar and calories. Therefore, they should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
4. Can Coconut Praline Pecans be stored for later use?
Yes, Coconut Praline Pecans can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. They can also be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months.
5. How can Coconut Praline Pecans be used in recipes?
Coconut Praline Pecans make a delicious topping for ice cream, yogurt, and oatmeal. They can also be used as a crunchy addition to salads or baked goods such as cookies and cake.