For those following a ketogenic diet, finding satisfying sweet treats can be a challenge. Enlightened Keto Ice Cream Bars have emerged as a popular option, promising a guilt-free indulgence. This review delves into the specifics of the Costco Enlightened Keto Ice Cream Bars, examining their taste, texture, nutritional information, and overall value.
First Impressions: What to Expect
The Costco Enlightened Keto Ice Cream Bars are found in the freezer section, alongside other ice cream options. The packaging contains nine 81 mL bars, offering a convenient supply for keto dieters.
Taste and Texture
The bars feature a chocolate coating and caramel-flavored ice cream with peanuts. The initial impression is positive, with many finding it difficult to distinguish the bars from traditional, non-keto desserts.
- Chocolate: While the chocolate flavor is generally well-received, some detect a slight chalkiness. The chocolate tends to crack and detach from the ice cream easily and melts quickly.
- Caramel Ice Cream: The ice cream has a subtle caramel flavor that complements the chocolate.
- Peanuts: Although visible on the outside, the peanut flavor is not particularly pronounced.
- Overall Combination: The combination of chocolate and caramel is generally considered delicious.
Nutritional Information
Each bar (63g) contains:
- 200 calories
- 19 grams of fat (23% DV)
- 11 grams of carbohydrates (4% DV)
- 3 grams of fiber (14% DV)
- 0 grams of sugar
- 6 grams of sugar alcohols
- 3 grams of protein (16% DV)
- 115 mg of sodium (4% DV)
Detailed Nutritional Breakdown (Per Bar / Per Container - 4 servings):
| Nutrient | Per Bar (63g) | Per Container (Serving Size 1/4 of container) | % Daily Value (Per Bar) | % Daily Value (Per Serving) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total Fat | 18g | 73g | 23% | 94% |
| Saturated Fat | 10g | 40g | 50% | 200% |
| Trans Fat | 0g | 1g | ||
| Cholesterol | 55mg | 215mg | 18% | 72% |
| Sodium | 100mg | 390mg | 4% | 17% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 12g | 48g | 4% | 17% |
| Dietary Fiber | 4g | 15g | 14% | 54% |
| Total Sugars | 0g | 2g | ||
| Added Sugars | 0g | 0g | 0% | 0% |
| Sugar Alcohol | 5g | 18g | ||
| Protein | 4g | 16g | 16% | 16g |
| Vitamin D | 0mcg | 2mcg | 0% | 10% |
| Calcium | 27mg | 109mg | 2% | 8% |
| Iron | 2mg | 6mg | 10% | 35% |
| Potassium | 116mg | 466mg | 2% | 10% |
Percent daily values (DV) are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
Read also: Guilt-Free Keto Ice Cream
Ingredients
The ingredients list includes: Cream, coconut oil, peanuts, erythritol, unsweetened chocolate, allulose, egg yolks, soluble corn fiber, milk protein concentrate, vegetable glycerin, soybean oil, cocoa processed with alkali, cocoa, salt, tara gum, guar gum, soy lecithin, monk fruit extract, natural flavor, stevia extract.
The bars contain milk, eggs, peanut, soy, and coconut, making them unsuitable for individuals with allergies to these ingredients. They are gluten-free and sweetened with monk fruit and erythritol.
Cost and Value
At Costco, the Enlightened Keto Ice Cream Bars are priced at $14.99 CAD for nine bars.
Enlightened Keto Ice Cream: A Broader Perspective
Enlightened offers a variety of keto-friendly ice cream products, with their Keto Collection being particularly popular. These ice creams are known for their creamy texture and flavor profiles that closely mimic traditional ice cream.
Comparing to Other Keto Ice Cream Brands
While taste is subjective, Enlightened is often ranked highly among keto ice cream brands. Its creamy texture and lack of aftertaste are frequently cited as advantages. Some popular alternatives include:
Read also: Easy Low-Carb Cheese Crackers
- Rebel Ice Cream: Often considered a close competitor, Rebel is also known for its low-carb options and rich flavors.
- Real Good Ice Cream: While the flavor is generally considered good, some find the consistency grainy.
- Other Brands: There are other keto ice cream brands available, each with its own unique characteristics.
Enlightened's Strengths
- Flavor and Texture: Enlightened's commitment to creating ice cream that tastes and feels like the real thing is a major draw for many consumers.
- Variety: Enlightened offers a range of flavors, catering to different preferences.
- Availability: Enlightened products are widely available in stores and online.
Potential Drawbacks
- Chocolate Base: Some reviewers have expressed dissatisfaction with Enlightened's chocolate base, describing it as bitter or artificial-tasting.
- Melting Speed: The bars tend to melt quickly, which can be messy.
- Ingredient Sensitivity: The presence of multiple allergens may limit accessibility for some consumers.
Addressing Common Questions and Concerns
Are Enlightened Keto Bars Really Keto-Friendly?
Yes, with 6 net carbs per serving, these bars can fit into a ketogenic diet. However, it's important to consider individual carb limits and overall dietary goals.
What are Sugar Alcohols?
Sugar alcohols like erythritol are used as sweeteners in keto products. They have fewer calories than sugar and don't raise blood sugar levels as much. However, some people may experience digestive issues when consuming large amounts of sugar alcohols.
Are These Bars Safe for Pets?
No, the bars contain xylitol, which is toxic to pets. Keep these bars out of reach of furry friends.
The Verdict: A Sweet Treat for Keto Dieters
The Costco Enlightened Keto Ice Cream Bars offer a convenient and tasty way to enjoy a frozen dessert while adhering to a ketogenic diet. While some may find the chocolate slightly chalky or the peanut flavor subtle, the overall combination of chocolate and caramel is generally well-received. The nutritional information is reasonable for a keto product, and the bars are widely available.
Ultimately, whether or not these bars are right for you depends on your individual preferences and dietary needs. If you're looking for a keto-friendly ice cream bar that tastes like the real thing, the Enlightened Keto Ice Cream Bars are definitely worth a try.
Read also: Keto Calorie Counting: A Detailed Guide
Additional Considerations
Tempering for Optimal Texture
Some reviewers recommend tempering Enlightened ice cream pints (allowing them to soften slightly before eating) to improve the texture. This may also apply to the bars, although it's less practical.
Experimenting with Flavors
Enlightened offers a wide range of keto ice cream flavors. Consider trying different varieties to find your favorites. Some popular options include:
- Peanut Butter Chocolate: A classic combination that's hard to resist.
- Vanilla Bean: A simple yet satisfying flavor that pairs well with other toppings.
- Birthday Cake: A fun and festive flavor with cake dough bites.
- Butter Pecan: A traditional flavor with a nutty and maple-like taste.
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