Written by CalorieData Nutrition TeamReviewed by a Registered DietitianLast Updated: March 2026

Butter vs Cake: Nutrition Comparison

Which is healthier? Compare calories, protein, carbs, and more

Complete side-by-side nutrition comparison per 100g serving | Updated 2026

Which is Healthier?

Cake is generally healthier

Cake comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (387 vs 717), more protein (3g vs 0.9g), more fiber (0.6g vs 0g), making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Cake

387 kcal

More Protein

Cake

3g

More Fiber

Cake

0.6g

Less Sugar

Butter

0.1g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Butter
717
Cake
387
Proteinper 100g
Butter
0.9g
Cake
3g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Butter
0.1g
Cake
47g
Fatper 100g
Butter
81g
Cake
20g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientButterCakeDifference
Calories717kcal387kcal+330.0kcal
Protein0.9g3g-2.1g
Carbohydrates0.1g47g-46.9g
Fat81g20g+61.0g
Fiber0g0.6g-0.6g
Sugar0.1g38g-37.9g
Sodium11mg356mg-345.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

All values above are per 100g. Here's how they compare in common serving sizes:

Butter

Per 100g:717 calories
Per cup (150g):1076 calories
Per serving (85g):609 calories

Cake

Per 100g:387 calories
Per cup (150g):581 calories
Per serving (85g):329 calories

Diet Compatibility

Butter

KetoLow-CarbVegetarianLow-Sodium

Cake

VeganVegetarian

When to Choose Butter

  • Lower in carbs (0.1g vs 47g)
  • Less sugar (0.1g vs 38g)
  • Lower sodium (11mg vs 356mg)

Common Uses

BreakfastSnacksCooking ingredientPost-workout
View full Butter nutrition →

When to Choose Cake

  • Lower in calories (387 vs 717)
  • Higher in protein (3g vs 0.9g)
  • More fiber (0.6g vs 0g)

Common Uses

TreatsCelebrationsComfort foodSocial occasions
View full Cake nutrition →

Butter vs Cake: Nutritional Analysis

Butter is more calorie-dense at 717 calories per 100g compared to 387 for Cake, a difference of 330 calories. On the protein front, Cake delivers more with 3g per 100g versus 0.9g, which matters for muscle maintenance, satiety, and overall metabolic health. These differences become meaningful when you consider how each food fits into your daily dietary pattern rather than looking at any single nutrient in isolation.

Macronutrient Breakdown

The macronutrient profiles of Butter and Cake tell different nutritional stories. Butter provides 0.1g of carbohydrates, 81g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Cake contains 47g carbs, 20g fat, and 0.6g fiber. The higher fiber content in Cake supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Butter contains 0.1g while Cake has 38g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Cake is the lower-calorie choice at 387 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Cake provides more protein (3g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Cake offers more fiber (0.6g/100g), which slows digestion and provides steadier energy release.
  • Overall: Neither food is universally "better" than the other. The right choice depends on your specific nutritional goals, meal context, and dietary preferences. Both can play a role in a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which has more calories, Butter or Cake?

Butter has more calories with 717 kcal per 100g, compared to Cake with 387 kcal. That's a difference of 330 calories per 100g serving.

Is Butter healthier than Cake?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Cake is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Cake has 387 calories, 3g protein, and 0.6g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Butter and Cake?

Cake has more protein with 3g per 100g, compared to Butter with 0.9g. Cake provides 2.1g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Butter or Cake?

For weight loss, Cake is the better choice with only 387 calories per 100g compared to 717 calories in Butter. Cake also offers 0.6g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Butter or Cake have fewer carbs?

Butter has fewer carbs with 0.1g per 100g, compared to Cake with 47g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Butter is the better option with 46.9g fewer carbohydrates.

About Our Data

All nutrition data in this comparison is sourced from the USDA FoodData Central, the official food composition database maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Values are based on 100g servings for accurate comparison.

Health Disclaimer: This comparison is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or dietary advice. Nutritional needs vary by individual. The best food choice depends on your personal health goals, dietary requirements, and preferences. Consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition guidance.