Panera Bread's Kitchen Sink Cookie has quickly become a fan favorite, but have you ever stopped to consider the nutritional value of this indulgent treat? With a name like "kitchen sink," you can expect a little bit of everything in this cookie. But just how unhealthy is it? Let's take a closer look at the nutrition facts. The Kitchen Sink Cookie clocks in at a hefty 800 calories, making it one of the most calorie-dense items on Panera's menu. It also contains 40 grams of fat, 20 grams of saturated fat, and 53 grams of sugar. Yikes! That's more than double the recommended daily intake of saturated fat and added sugar. So what exactly is in this cookie that makes it so high in calories and unhealthy? Let's break it down.1. Panera Bread Kitchen Sink Cookie Nutrition Facts
In addition to the high calorie and fat content, the Kitchen Sink Cookie also contains 2 grams of trans fat. Trans fat is a type of unsaturated fat that has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. The American Heart Association recommends limiting trans fat intake to less than 2 grams per day, making this cookie a major offender. The cookie also contains 55 milligrams of cholesterol, 480 milligrams of sodium, and only 3 grams of protein. While these numbers may not seem too alarming, they add up quickly when paired with the high levels of fat and sugar.2. Panera Bread Kitchen Sink Cookie Calories and Nutritional Information
The ingredients list for the Kitchen Sink Cookie is quite extensive and includes flour, butter, chocolate chips, pretzels, oats, toffee bits, and more. While these ingredients may sound harmless, they are all high in calories, fat, and sugar. The cookie also contains milk, wheat, soy, and eggs, making it unsuitable for those with allergies or dietary restrictions. It's important to note that Panera does offer a gluten-free version of the Kitchen Sink Cookie, which is made with gluten-free flour and does not contain wheat. However, this version still contains high levels of fat and sugar.3. Panera Bread Kitchen Sink Cookie Ingredients and Allergen Information
Based on the nutrition facts and ingredients list, it's safe to say that Panera's Kitchen Sink Cookies are not the healthiest treat. However, the occasional indulgence is not necessarily a bad thing. It's all about balance and moderation. If you're looking for a healthier option at Panera, try their oatmeal raisin cookie, which contains 350 calories and 15 grams of fat. Or, opt for their fruit cup or Greek yogurt with honey as a lighter snack.4. Are Panera's Kitchen Sink Cookies Healthy?
If you still can't resist the temptation of the Kitchen Sink Cookie, why not try making a homemade version? Not only will you have control over the ingredients and nutritional value, but you'll also save some money. This copycat recipe from Food.com includes all the same ingredients as Panera's version, but with the added option to use healthier substitutes, such as coconut oil in place of butter and dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate.5. Panera Bread Kitchen Sink Cookie Recipe
If you're a visual learner, this recipe from Allrecipes.com includes step-by-step photos to help guide you along the way. It also includes the option to add dried cranberries or nuts for added flavor and texture. By making your own Kitchen Sink Cookies, you can control the portion size and tailor it to your own dietary needs and preferences.6. Panera Bread Kitchen Sink Cookie Copycat Recipe
Now that we've covered the nutrition facts and recipes, let's hear from some real-life taste testers. Brand Eating did a review of the Kitchen Sink Cookie, noting its large size and variety of mix-ins. They also mentioned the "of-the-moment" feel of the cookie, with the combination of sweet and salty flavors. If you're hesitant to try the cookie for yourself, this review may give you a better idea of what to expect.7. Panera Bread Kitchen Sink Cookie Review
If you're watching your calorie and fat intake, it's important to know the nutritional information for all the items on Panera's menu. Luckily, Nutritionix has compiled a comprehensive list of nutrition information for the Kitchen Sink Cookie, including all the macronutrients and micronutrients. Use this information to make informed decisions about your food choices at Panera and other restaurants.8. Panera Bread Kitchen Sink Cookie Nutrition Information
If you're following the Weight Watchers program, you may be wondering how many points the Kitchen Sink Cookie is worth. According to Exercise4WeightLoss.com, the cookie is equivalent to 20 Weight Watchers Points on the PointsPlus system. This is a significant amount of points, especially when you consider that the daily points allowance for most people is around 30. It's important to be mindful of these points and make choices that fit within your daily allowance.9. Panera Bread Kitchen Sink Cookie Weight Watchers Points
Lastly, if you have any allergies or dietary restrictions, it's important to know which ingredients are included in the Kitchen Sink Cookie. Panera's website provides an allergen information guide for all their menu items, including the cookie. Be sure to check this guide before placing your order to ensure your safety and well-being. In summary, the Panera Bread Kitchen Sink Cookie may not be the healthiest choice on their menu, but it can still be enjoyed in moderation. It's important to be aware of the high calorie, fat, and sugar content and make informed decisions about your food choices. By making your own homemade version or opting for a healthier snack, you can still satisfy your sweet tooth without going overboard on unhealthy ingredients. Remember, balance is key. 10. Panera Bread Kitchen Sink Cookie Allergen Information