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

Cashews vs Granola Bar: 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?

Cashews is generally healthier

Cashews comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has more protein (18g vs 4g), more fiber (3.3g vs 2g), less sugar (5.9g vs 12g), less sodium (10mg vs 178mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Granola Bar

193 kcal

More Protein

Cashews

18g

More Fiber

Cashews

3.3g

Less Sugar

Cashews

5.9g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Cashews
553
Granola Bar
193
Proteinper 100g
Cashews
18g
Granola Bar
4g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Cashews
30g
Granola Bar
28g
Fatper 100g
Cashews
44g
Granola Bar
8g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientCashewsGranola BarDifference
Calories553kcal193kcal+360.0kcal
Protein18g4g+14.0g
Carbohydrates30g28g+2.0g
Fat44g8g+36.0g
Fiber3.3g2g+1.3g
Sugar5.9g12g-6.1g
Sodium10mg178mg-168.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Cashews

Per 100g:553 calories
Per cup (150g):830 calories
Per serving (85g):470 calories

Granola Bar

Per 100g:193 calories
Per cup (150g):290 calories
Per serving (85g):164 calories

Diet Compatibility

Cashews

High-ProteinVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

Granola Bar

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

When to Choose Cashews

  • Higher in protein (18g vs 4g)
  • More fiber (3.3g vs 2g)
  • Less sugar (5.9g vs 12g)
  • Lower sodium (10mg vs 178mg)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Cashews nutrition →

When to Choose Granola Bar

  • Lower in calories (193 vs 553)
  • Lower in carbs (28g vs 30g)

Common Uses

Between mealsMovie nightsPartiesTravel food
View full Granola Bar nutrition →

Cashews vs Granola Bar: Nutritional Analysis

Cashews is more calorie-dense at 553 calories per 100g compared to 193 for Granola Bar, a difference of 360 calories. On the protein front, Cashews delivers more with 18g per 100g versus 4g, 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 Cashews and Granola Bar tell different nutritional stories. Cashews provides 30g of carbohydrates, 44g of fat, and 3.3g of fiber per 100g, while Granola Bar contains 28g carbs, 8g fat, and 2g fiber. The higher fiber content in Cashews supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Cashews contains 5.9g while Granola Bar has 12g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Granola Bar is the lower-calorie choice at 193 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Cashews provides more protein (18g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Cashews offers more fiber (3.3g/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, Cashews or Granola Bar?

Cashews has more calories with 553 kcal per 100g, compared to Granola Bar with 193 kcal. That's a difference of 360 calories per 100g serving.

Is Cashews healthier than Granola Bar?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Cashews is generally the healthier choice, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Cashews has 553 calories, 18g protein, and 3.3g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Cashews and Granola Bar?

Cashews has more protein with 18g per 100g, compared to Granola Bar with 4g. Cashews provides 14.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Cashews or Granola Bar?

For weight loss, Granola Bar is the better choice with only 193 calories per 100g compared to 553 calories in Cashews. Cashews also offers 3.3g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Cashews or Granola Bar have fewer carbs?

Granola Bar has fewer carbs with 28g per 100g, compared to Cashews with 30g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Granola Bar is the better option with 2.0g 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.