Jordan almonds are a timeless treat—elegant, colorful, and often associated with weddings and special celebrations. But while they might look dainty in the candy dish, you may wonder just how they fit into your caloric intake.

Whether you’re a calorie-conscious sweet tooth or just curious about what you’re snacking on, this comprehensive guide will break down everything you need to know about the calories in a Jordan almond.

What are Jordan almonds?

Jordan almonds are small, egg-shaped candies with a hard outer shell and a crunchy inner core. They’re typically made of an almond covered in several layers of sugar, oil, and food coloring.

The traditional colors for Jordan almonds are white (symbolizing purity), pink (happiness), blue (fertility), green (longevity), and yellow or gold (wealth).

These treats have been enjoyed for centuries, with roots dating back to ancient Rome where they were known as confetti.

How many calories are in a Jordan almond?

The answer to this question may vary depending on the size of the Jordan almond you’re snacking on, as well as how it

What Are Jordan Almonds?

Before we start crunching the numbers, it’s important to understand what makes Jordan almonds so unique. Jordan almonds are essentially whole almonds coated in a hard sugar shell. Their name is said to be derived from the French word “jardin,” meaning garden, referring to their vibrant coloring, although this origin is debated.

These crunchy candies are often used as wedding favors or seen in upscale candy bars. Their sugar shell can be dyed in a variety of colors, from pastel pinks and blues for baby showers to gold and silver for ultra-glamorous events.

However, Jordan almonds aren’t just for special occasions. They’re a popular snack around the world and can be found in many grocery stores year-round. But how do these colorful treats stack up when it comes to calorie counting?

Calories in a Single Jordan Almond

On average, one Jordan almond contains around 7-9 calories. However, this number can vary depending on the size and ingredients used.

For example, larger Jordan almonds may have more calories than smaller ones. Additionally, some brands may use different types of sugar or oils which could affect the overall calorie count.

It’s also important to note that most Jordan almonds come in a variety of colors, each with its own flavor

The Ingredients in a Jordan Almond

While Jordan almonds have a basic structure, understanding their core ingredients can give insight into their calorie content:

• Almonds (main ingredient): Naturally high in protein, healthy fats, and calories.
• Sugar Shell Coating: Adds the signature crunch but also a significant amount of sugar and calories.
• Often includes food coloring to create their vibrant appearance.

Breaking It Down: How Many Calories in a Jordan Almond?

The caloric content of a single Jordan almond depends on the size of the almond and the thickness of the sugar shell. However, we can calculate an approximate calorie value based on industry averages.

On average:

• 1 Jordan Almond contains about 5-7 calories.
• Per 100 grams (about 3.5 oz) of Jordan almonds (roughly 35-40 almonds), you’re looking at approximately 500 calories.

Here’s a simple table to help visualize the numbers:

This calorie breakdown explains why Jordan almonds, though small, can add up quickly if you’re eating more than just a couple.

Why Are Jordan Almonds Calorically Dense?

Jordan almonds are high in calories due to two key components:

1. The Almonds Themselves – Almonds are nutrient-rich and packed with healthy fats, offering approximately 160 calories per 1 ounce (about 23 almonds).
2. The Sugar Coating – While the sugar shell is deliciously sweet, it boosts the overall caloric content significantly. Sugar has roughly 4 calories per gram, and the coating on each almond adds a surprising amount of weight to the candy.

Are Jordan Almonds Healthy?

Jordan almonds offer a mix of health benefits and drawbacks. To strike the balance, it helps to understand the nutritional profile of both almonds and sugar.

Health Benefits of Jordan Almonds

• Rich in Nutrients: Almonds are a great source of vitamin E, magnesium, calcium, and protein.
• Healthy Fats: Almonds contain heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
• Energy Boost: Almonds have a good combination of fats, protein, and carbs, making them a quick energy source.

Health Concerns of Jordan Almonds

• Sugar Content: The sugar coating cancels out some of the health benefits of almonds. Excessive sugar intake can lead to weight gain, and overconsumption may impact blood sugar levels.
• Caloric Density: At roughly 5-7 calories per almond, it’s easy to overeat, especially in festive settings where portion control can slip.

If you’re aiming to balance nutrition and indulgence, enjoying Jordan almonds in moderation is key.

Jordan Almonds and Portion Control

When you attend an event like a wedding, it can feel tempting to grab handfuls of Jordan almonds from the candy table. To avoid overindulging, here are some portion control tips:

1. Use Smaller Dishes – If serving at home, limit portions by using small bowls.
2. Pre-Portion Ahead of Time – Instead of free-for-all snacking, pre-portion servings into small bags or boxes.
3. Mindful Eating – Enjoy each Jordan almond slowly rather than rushing through your snack. This will help you feel satisfied with a smaller portion.
4. Mix in Other Foods – Add almonds to a salad or trail mix to bulk up the volume without going overboard on calories.
5. Alternate Water Between Bites – Drinking water between each Jordan almond can help you slow down and stay hydrated, which can also reduce overindulgence.

Conclusion

Jordan almonds may be small, but their calorie content packs a punch. Understanding what goes into making these tasty treats and practicing portion control can help you enjoy them without derailing your healthy eating habits.

So go ahead and indulge in moderation—after all, life is meant to be celebrated! Just don’t forget to balance it out with nutritious foods and a healthy lifestyle.

Now that you know all about the calories in Jordan almonds, go ahead and have one (or two) as a sweet treat. Just remember to savor each bite!

FAQ

Are Jordan almonds gluten-free?

Yes, Jordan almonds are generally gluten-free, but it’s always best to check the package labeling, especially with flavored or specialty coatings.

Can Jordan almonds fit into a low-carb diet?

Not ideally. While almonds themselves are low in carbs, the sugar shell adds a significant amount of sugar, making it unsuitable for strict low-carb or keto diets.

Are there any low-sugar alternatives to Jordan almonds?

Some brands offer sugar-free Jordan almonds that use artificial sweeteners or low-calorie sugar alternatives. These can be a good option for those watching their sugar intake.

How do Jordan almonds compare to plain almonds in calorie content?

Plain almonds are significantly lower in calories per serving than Jordan almonds because they don’t have the added sugar coating. For example:

• 1 ounce of plain almonds (roughly 23 almonds) contains about 160 calories.
• The equivalent serving of Jordan almonds easily exceeds 500 calories, largely due to the sugar.

What is the recommended serving size for Jordan almonds?

A typical serving size of Jordan almonds is around 1 ounce (approximately 10–12 almonds), which contains approximately 70–100 calories.

Are Jordan almonds vegan?

It depends on the sugar coating. While almonds are naturally vegan, some sugar coatings may use animal-derived ingredients such as gelatin or food coloring. Always check the packaging to be sure.