Are you a fan of scones and looking for a fall twist on this classic pastry? Look no further than the pumpkin scone! But beware, one pumpkin scone (121.5 g) contains a whopping 500 calories. So, how can you indulge in this seasonal treat without sabotaging your diet?

In addition to being high in calories, pumpkin scones are also high in sugar and fat. According to Starbucks' nutrition information, their pumpkin scone contains 22 grams of sugar and 22 grams of fat. However, pumpkin scones are also a good source of fiber and vitamin A, thanks to the pumpkin puree in the recipe.

In this article, we'll explore the nutritional value, alternatives, and best practices for enjoying a pumpkin scone. Whether you're making your own or picking one up from your local bakery or coffee shop, we've got you covered.

Ingredients in Pumpkin Scones

What goes into a pumpkin scone? The basic recipe includes flour, sugar, butter, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, eggs, vanilla extract, milk, and pumpkin puree. Some recipes call for additional spices or ingredients like brown sugar or cream cheese icing. While pumpkin puree adds nutritional benefits like fiber and vitamin A, the other ingredients in pumpkin scones can add up to a high calorie and high sugar treat. If you're making your own pumpkin scones, consider reducing the amount of sugar or butter in the recipe to make them slightly healthier.

Why is a Pumpkin Scone 500 Calories?

Pumpkin scones are high in calories because they typically contain large amounts of sugar, butter, and flour. Additionally, the large size of many pumpkin scones can increase the calorie count. For example, the Starbucks pumpkin scone weighs in at 121.5 grams, compared to their chocolate croissant which weighs 70 grams and contains 290 calories. However, pumpkin scones can also be a source of beneficial nutrients like fiber and vitamin A. To make a pumpkin scone a healthier choice, consider opting for a smaller size and pairing it with other nutrient-dense foods like fresh fruit or yogurt.

Nutritional Value of Pumpkin Scones

While pumpkin scones are high in calories, they do contain some nutritional benefits. According to Starbucks' nutrition information, their pumpkin scone contains 4 grams of fiber and 20% of the daily value for vitamin A. However, pumpkin scones are also high in sugar and fat. The same Starbucks pumpkin scone contains 22 grams of sugar and 22 grams of fat. To make a pumpkin scone a healthier choice, consider scaling back on the portion size or reducing the amount of sugar or fat in the recipe.

Pumpkin Scone versus Regular Scone

Compared to a regular scone, a pumpkin scone may have more nutritional benefits thanks to the pumpkin puree. However, pumpkin scones are also higher in calories, sugar, and fat. A Starbucks plain scone, for example, contains 420 calories, 14 grams of fat, and 14 grams of sugar, compared to the 500 calorie pumpkin scone. If you're looking for a lower calorie or lower sugar option, consider trying a plain scone or opting for a smaller size of pumpkin scone.

How to Make a Healthy Pumpkin Scone

Making your own pumpkin scones can be a great way to control the ingredients and potentially make a healthier version. Consider reducing the sugar or fat in the recipe, or experimenting with alternative flours or sweeteners. Here's a healthy recipe for pumpkin scones: Ingredients: 2 cups whole wheat flour, 1/2 cup coconut sugar (or alternative sweetener), 2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1/2 tsp nutmeg, 1/4 tsp ginger, 1/3 cup cold butter, 1/2 cup pumpkin puree, 1 egg, 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk. Instructions: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture is crumbly. In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, egg, and almond milk. Add the wet mixture to the dry mixture and stir until just combined. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape into a circle. Cut the circle into 8 wedges and transfer these to a baking sheet. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly browned.

Best Time to Enjoy a Pumpkin Scone

Pumpkin scones are a great treat to enjoy during the fall season. They pair well with warm beverages like coffee or hot apple cider, and can be a delicious breakfast or snack option. However, if you're trying to maintain a balanced diet or watch your calorie intake, consider enjoying a pumpkin scone in moderation or as an occasional treat.

Perfect Beverage Pairings with Pumpkin Scones

Pumpkin scones pair well with a variety of beverages, depending on your preferences. Some popular options include:

• Coffee - hot or iced
• Tea - black, green, or herbal
• Hot apple cider
• Milk - dairy or non-dairy

Calories Burned While Eating a Pumpkin Scone

While there may not be a way to directly burn off the calories consumed while eating a pumpkin scone, incorporating regular exercise into your routine can help balance out your calorie intake. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity each day to support your overall health and wellbeing.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Pumpkin Scones

There are both benefits and drawbacks to indulging in a pumpkin scone. On the plus side, pumpkin scones can provide beneficial nutrients like fiber and vitamin A, and can be a nostalgic and comforting fall treat. However, pumpkin scones are often high in calories, sugar, and fat, and can be a less healthy choice if consumed in excess. If you're a fan of pumpkin scones, consider enjoying them in moderation or opting for a healthier homemade version to make the most of the benefits while minimizing the drawbacks.

Alternatives for a 500-Calorie Pumpkin Scone

If you're looking for lower calorie or healthier alternatives to a 500-calorie pumpkin scone, consider these options:

• Plain scone - many coffee shops and bakeries offer a plain scone option that is lower in calories and sugar than a pumpkin scone
• Fruit and yogurt - pairing a small portion of pumpkin scone with fresh fruit and yogurt can add beneficial nutrients while still indulging in a fall treat
• Homemade pumpkin scone - making your own pumpkin scone with alternative flours or sweeteners can reduce the calorie and sugar content