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

Cake vs Walnuts: 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?

Walnuts is generally healthier

Walnuts comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has more protein (9g vs 3g), more fiber (6.7g vs 0.6g), less sugar (2.6g vs 38g), less sodium (2mg vs 356mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Cake

387 kcal

More Protein

Walnuts

9g

More Fiber

Walnuts

6.7g

Less Sugar

Walnuts

2.6g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Cake
387
Walnuts
654
Proteinper 100g
Cake
3g
Walnuts
9g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Cake
47g
Walnuts
14g
Fatper 100g
Cake
20g
Walnuts
65g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientCakeWalnutsDifference
Calories387kcal654kcal-267.0kcal
Protein3g9g-6.0g
Carbohydrates47g14g+33.0g
Fat20g65g-45.0g
Fiber0.6g6.7g-6.1g
Sugar38g2.6g+35.4g
Sodium356mg2mg+354.0mg

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

Walnuts

Per 100g:654 calories
Per cup (150g):981 calories
Per serving (85g):556 calories

Diet Compatibility

Cake

VeganVegetarian

Walnuts

VeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Cake

  • Lower in calories (387 vs 654)

Common Uses

TreatsCelebrationsComfort foodSocial occasions
View full Cake nutrition →

When to Choose Walnuts

  • Higher in protein (9g vs 3g)
  • More fiber (6.7g vs 0.6g)
  • Lower in carbs (14g vs 47g)
  • Less sugar (2.6g vs 38g)
  • Lower sodium (2mg vs 356mg)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Walnuts nutrition →

Cake vs Walnuts: Nutritional Analysis

Walnuts is more calorie-dense at 654 calories per 100g compared to 387 for Cake, a difference of 267 calories. On the protein front, Walnuts delivers more with 9g 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 Walnuts tell different nutritional stories. Cake provides 47g of carbohydrates, 20g of fat, and 0.6g of fiber per 100g, while Walnuts contains 14g carbs, 65g fat, and 6.7g fiber. The higher fiber content in Walnuts supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Cake contains 38g while Walnuts has 2.6g 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: Walnuts provides more protein (9g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Walnuts offers more fiber (6.7g/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 Walnuts?

Walnuts has more calories with 654 kcal per 100g, compared to Cake with 387 kcal. That's a difference of 267 calories per 100g serving.

Is Cake healthier than Walnuts?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Walnuts is generally the healthier choice, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Walnuts has 654 calories, 9g protein, and 6.7g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Cake and Walnuts?

Walnuts has more protein with 9g per 100g, compared to Cake with 3g. Walnuts provides 6.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Cake or Walnuts?

For weight loss, Cake is the better choice with only 387 calories per 100g compared to 654 calories in Walnuts. Walnuts also offers 6.7g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Cake or Walnuts have fewer carbs?

Walnuts has fewer carbs with 14g per 100g, compared to Cake with 47g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Walnuts is the better option with 33.0g 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.