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

Cake vs Peanuts: 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?

Peanuts is generally healthier

Peanuts comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has more protein (26g vs 3g), more fiber (9g vs 0.6g), less sugar (4.7g vs 38g), less sodium (18mg vs 356mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Cake

387 kcal

More Protein

Peanuts

26g

More Fiber

Peanuts

9g

Less Sugar

Peanuts

4.7g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Cake
387
Peanuts
567
Proteinper 100g
Cake
3g
Peanuts
26g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Cake
47g
Peanuts
16g
Fatper 100g
Cake
20g
Peanuts
49g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientCakePeanutsDifference
Calories387kcal567kcal-180.0kcal
Protein3g26g-23.0g
Carbohydrates47g16g+31.0g
Fat20g49g-29.0g
Fiber0.6g9g-8.4g
Sugar38g4.7g+33.3g
Sodium356mg18mg+338.0mg

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

Peanuts

Per 100g:567 calories
Per cup (150g):851 calories
Per serving (85g):482 calories

Diet Compatibility

Cake

VeganVegetarian

Peanuts

High-ProteinVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Cake

  • Lower in calories (387 vs 567)

Common Uses

TreatsCelebrationsComfort foodSocial occasions
View full Cake nutrition →

When to Choose Peanuts

  • Higher in protein (26g vs 3g)
  • More fiber (9g vs 0.6g)
  • Lower in carbs (16g vs 47g)
  • Less sugar (4.7g vs 38g)
  • Lower sodium (18mg vs 356mg)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Peanuts nutrition →

Cake vs Peanuts: Nutritional Analysis

Peanuts is more calorie-dense at 567 calories per 100g compared to 387 for Cake, a difference of 180 calories. On the protein front, Peanuts delivers more with 26g 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 Peanuts tell different nutritional stories. Cake provides 47g of carbohydrates, 20g of fat, and 0.6g of fiber per 100g, while Peanuts contains 16g carbs, 49g fat, and 9g fiber. The higher fiber content in Peanuts supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Cake contains 38g while Peanuts has 4.7g 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: Peanuts provides more protein (26g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Peanuts offers more fiber (9g/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 Peanuts?

Peanuts has more calories with 567 kcal per 100g, compared to Cake with 387 kcal. That's a difference of 180 calories per 100g serving.

Is Cake healthier than Peanuts?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Peanuts is generally the healthier choice, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Peanuts has 567 calories, 26g protein, and 9g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Cake and Peanuts?

Peanuts has more protein with 26g per 100g, compared to Cake with 3g. Peanuts provides 23.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Cake or Peanuts?

For weight loss, Cake is the better choice with only 387 calories per 100g compared to 567 calories in Peanuts. Peanuts also offers 9g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Cake or Peanuts have fewer carbs?

Peanuts has fewer carbs with 16g per 100g, compared to Cake with 47g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Peanuts is the better option with 31.0g 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.