Dried apricots are one of those snacks that I keep coming back to. They’re sweet, chewy, and somehow feel like a little treat, but also like a healthy choice. If you’re someone who’s watching calories or just curious about what you’re putting in your body, you might wonder, “How many calories are actually in dried apricots?” Well, let’s dive into that because it’s not as straightforward as you might think.
So, on average, dried apricots pack about calories. That’s based on the usual size you find in most stores—unsweetened, by the way. One dried apricot usually has around calories, so multiply that by two and you get the number. But keep in mind, this can vary a bit depending on the brand or if the apricots are sweetened or not. Some brands add sugar or preservatives, which can bump up the calories a little.
To put it in perspective, dried apricots usually come in at about calories. That’s a handy number to remember if you like snacking on a handful. And if you’re curious about how this compares to fresh apricots, two fresh ones have fewer calories—around 34—but they’re also bulkier because of the water content. Drying fruit shrinks it down and concentrates the sugars and calories.
| Quantity of Dried Apricots | Approximate Calories |
|---|---|
| apricot | 22 |
| apricots | 44 |
| apricots | 110 |
| apricots (about 100g) | 135-140 |
Now, calories are just one part of the story. Dried apricots are surprisingly packed with nutrients. Even just two pieces give you a bit of fiber, some potassium, vitamin A, and a smidge of iron. They’re mostly carbs, mostly natural sugars, but there’s a little protein and almost no fat. Here’s a rough breakdown for those two apricots:
| Nutrient | Amount in Dried Apricots | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 44 | 2% |
| Carbohydrates | ~ g | 3% |
| Fiber | ~0. g | 3% |
| Sugars | ~ g | - |
| Protein | ~0. g | 1% |
| Fat | g | 0% |
| Potassium | ~ mg | 5% |
| Vitamin A | ~ μg | 7% |
| Iron | ~0. mg | 2% |
*Percent Daily Values based on a 2, calorie diet.
What I like about dried apricots is that they’re not just empty calories. They bring some real nutritional value to the table. The potassium content is great for your heart and muscles, and vitamin A is essential for good eyesight and immune health. Plus, they’re rich in antioxidants like beta-carotene, which help fight off free radicals that can damage your cells.
But, of course, nothing’s perfect. Because dried apricots are dried, the sugars get concentrated, so they’re pretty sweet. That means if you’re diabetic or watching your sugar intake carefully, you’ll want to be mindful of how many you eat. Also, some brands add sugar or preservatives like sulfur dioxide, which might not be ideal if you’re aiming for all-natural snacks. I always recommend checking the label and going for unsweetened varieties.
On the bright side, dried apricots are super convenient. They last a long time, don’t need refrigeration, and are easy to carry around. I often toss a few into my bag when I know I’ll be out and about and need a quick pick-me-up. They’re way better than grabbing candy or chips, in my opinion.
If you want to mix things up, dried apricots are pretty versatile. You can chop them up and add them to your morning oatmeal or yogurt, toss them in a salad for a bit of sweetness, or even bake them into muffins or energy bars. They add a nice chewy texture and natural sweetness without needing extra sugar.
Here’s a quick comparison between fresh and dried apricots to give you a better idea:
| Nutrient | Fresh Apricots (70g) | Dried Apricots (14g) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 34 | 44 |
| Carbohydrates | g | g |
| Fiber | 1. g | 0. g |
| Sugars | g | g |
| Protein | g | 0. g |
| Vitamin A | 8% DV | 7% DV |
| Potassium | 4% DV | 5% DV |
See? Dried apricots are more calorie-dense, but they’re also more compact and portable. That’s the trade-off.
Some Quick Tips to Enjoy Dried Apricots Without Overdoing It
- Snack on or at a time to keep calories in check.
- Mix chopped dried apricots into your cereal or yogurt for a natural sweetness boost.
- Add them to salads or grain bowls for a surprise pop of flavor.
- Make your own trail mix with nuts and seeds, tossing in some dried apricots for variety.
- Use them in baking instead of processed sugars to sweeten muffins or bars.
Just remember, because they’re sweet and calorie-dense, it’s easy to overeat. Moderation is key!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are dried apricots fattening?
A: Not really. They’re low in fat and full of nutrients, but because they have concentrated sugars, eating too many can add up calorie-wise. So, enjoy them in moderation.
Q: How many calories are in dried apricots?
A: Around to calories, depending on size and brand.
Q: Do dried apricots have added sugar?
A: Some do, so always check the packaging. Look for “unsweetened” or “no added sugar” to avoid extra calories.
Q: Can dried apricots help with weight loss?
A: Yes, if eaten in reasonable amounts. They’re filling and nutrient-rich, which can help curb hunger and prevent overeating.
Q: How do dried apricots compare calorie-wise to other dried fruits?
A: They’re moderate. For example, raisins have more calories per grams, about 299, compared to apricots’ 241.
In the end, knowing that dried apricots have about calories helps you make smarter choices. They’re a tasty, nutrient-packed snack that fits well into most diets, especially if you keep an eye on portion sizes. So next time you’re craving something sweet but don’t want to feel guilty, reach for a couple of dried apricots—you might just find your new favorite snack.
