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

Cake vs Couscous: 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?

Couscous is generally healthier

Couscous comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 5 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (112 vs 387), more protein (3.8g vs 3g), more fiber (1.4g vs 0.6g), less sugar (0.1g vs 38g), less sodium (5mg vs 356mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Couscous

112 kcal

More Protein

Couscous

3.8g

More Fiber

Couscous

1.4g

Less Sugar

Couscous

0.1g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Cake
387
Couscous
112
Proteinper 100g
Cake
3g
Couscous
3.8g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Cake
47g
Couscous
23g
Fatper 100g
Cake
20g
Couscous
0.2g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientCakeCouscousDifference
Calories387kcal112kcal+275.0kcal
Protein3g3.8g-0.8g
Carbohydrates47g23g+24.0g
Fat20g0.2g+19.8g
Fiber0.6g1.4g-0.8g
Sugar38g0.1g+37.9g
Sodium356mg5mg+351.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Cake

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

Couscous

Per 100g:112 calories
Per cup (150g):168 calories
Per serving (85g):95 calories

Diet Compatibility

Cake

VeganVegetarian

Couscous

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

When to Choose Cake

    Common Uses

    TreatsCelebrationsComfort foodSocial occasions
    View full Cake nutrition →

    When to Choose Couscous

    • Lower in calories (112 vs 387)
    • Higher in protein (3.8g vs 3g)
    • More fiber (1.4g vs 0.6g)
    • Lower in carbs (23g vs 47g)
    • Less sugar (0.1g vs 38g)
    • Lower sodium (5mg vs 356mg)

    Common Uses

    Side dishesBreakfastMeal baseEnergy food
    View full Couscous nutrition →

    Cake vs Couscous: Nutritional Analysis

    Cake is more calorie-dense at 387 calories per 100g compared to 112 for Couscous, a difference of 275 calories. On the protein front, Couscous delivers more with 3.8g per 100g versus 3g, 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 Cake and Couscous tell different nutritional stories. Cake provides 47g of carbohydrates, 20g of fat, and 0.6g of fiber per 100g, while Couscous contains 23g carbs, 0.2g fat, and 1.4g fiber. The higher fiber content in Couscous supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Cake contains 38g while Couscous has 0.1g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

    Key Takeaways

    • For weight management: Couscous is the lower-calorie choice at 112 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
    • For muscle building: Couscous provides more protein (3.8g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
    • For sustained energy: Couscous offers more fiber (1.4g/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, Cake or Couscous?

    Cake has more calories with 387 kcal per 100g, compared to Couscous with 112 kcal. That's a difference of 275 calories per 100g serving.

    Is Cake healthier than Couscous?

    Based on our nutritional analysis, Couscous is generally the healthier choice, winning in 5 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Couscous has 112 calories, 3.8g protein, and 1.4g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

    What is the protein difference between Cake and Couscous?

    Couscous has more protein with 3.8g per 100g, compared to Cake with 3g. Couscous provides 0.8g more protein per 100g serving.

    Which is better for weight loss, Cake or Couscous?

    For weight loss, Couscous is the better choice with only 112 calories per 100g compared to 387 calories in Cake. Couscous also offers 1.4g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

    Does Cake or Couscous have fewer carbs?

    Couscous has fewer carbs with 23g per 100g, compared to Cake with 47g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Couscous is the better option with 24.0g 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.