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

Cake vs Pasta: 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?

Pasta is generally healthier

Pasta comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 5 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (131 vs 387), more protein (5.3g vs 3g), more fiber (1.8g vs 0.6g), less sugar (0.6g vs 38g), less sodium (3mg vs 356mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Pasta

131 kcal

More Protein

Pasta

5.3g

More Fiber

Pasta

1.8g

Less Sugar

Pasta

0.6g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Cake
387
Pasta
131
Proteinper 100g
Cake
3g
Pasta
5.3g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Cake
47g
Pasta
25g
Fatper 100g
Cake
20g
Pasta
1.1g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientCakePastaDifference
Calories387kcal131kcal+256.0kcal
Protein3g5.3g-2.3g
Carbohydrates47g25g+22.0g
Fat20g1.1g+18.9g
Fiber0.6g1.8g-1.2g
Sugar38g0.6g+37.4g
Sodium356mg3mg+353.0mg

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

Pasta

Per 100g:131 calories
Per cup (150g):197 calories
Per serving (85g):111 calories

Diet Compatibility

Cake

VeganVegetarian

Pasta

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

When to Choose Cake

    Common Uses

    TreatsCelebrationsComfort foodSocial occasions
    View full Cake nutrition →

    When to Choose Pasta

    • Lower in calories (131 vs 387)
    • Higher in protein (5.3g vs 3g)
    • More fiber (1.8g vs 0.6g)
    • Lower in carbs (25g vs 47g)
    • Less sugar (0.6g vs 38g)
    • Lower sodium (3mg vs 356mg)

    Common Uses

    Side dishesBreakfastMeal baseEnergy food
    View full Pasta nutrition →

    Cake vs Pasta: Nutritional Analysis

    Cake is more calorie-dense at 387 calories per 100g compared to 131 for Pasta, a difference of 256 calories. On the protein front, Pasta delivers more with 5.3g 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 Pasta tell different nutritional stories. Cake provides 47g of carbohydrates, 20g of fat, and 0.6g of fiber per 100g, while Pasta contains 25g carbs, 1.1g fat, and 1.8g fiber. The higher fiber content in Pasta supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Cake contains 38g while Pasta has 0.6g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

    Key Takeaways

    • For weight management: Pasta is the lower-calorie choice at 131 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
    • For muscle building: Pasta provides more protein (5.3g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
    • For sustained energy: Pasta offers more fiber (1.8g/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 Pasta?

    Cake has more calories with 387 kcal per 100g, compared to Pasta with 131 kcal. That's a difference of 256 calories per 100g serving.

    Is Cake healthier than Pasta?

    Based on our nutritional analysis, Pasta is generally the healthier choice, winning in 5 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Pasta has 131 calories, 5.3g protein, and 1.8g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

    What is the protein difference between Cake and Pasta?

    Pasta has more protein with 5.3g per 100g, compared to Cake with 3g. Pasta provides 2.3g more protein per 100g serving.

    Which is better for weight loss, Cake or Pasta?

    For weight loss, Pasta is the better choice with only 131 calories per 100g compared to 387 calories in Cake. Pasta also offers 1.8g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

    Does Cake or Pasta have fewer carbs?

    Pasta has fewer carbs with 25g per 100g, compared to Cake with 47g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Pasta is the better option with 22.0g 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.