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

Cauliflower vs Butter: 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?

Cauliflower is generally healthier

Cauliflower comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (25 vs 717), more protein (1.9g vs 0.9g), more fiber (2.4g vs 0g), making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Cauliflower

25 kcal

More Protein

Cauliflower

1.9g

More Fiber

Cauliflower

2.4g

Less Sugar

Butter

0.1g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Cauliflower
25
Butter
717
Proteinper 100g
Cauliflower
1.9g
Butter
0.9g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Cauliflower
5g
Butter
0.1g
Fatper 100g
Cauliflower
0.3g
Butter
81g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientCauliflowerButterDifference
Calories25kcal717kcal-692.0kcal
Protein1.9g0.9g+1.0g
Carbohydrates5g0.1g+4.9g
Fat0.3g81g-80.7g
Fiber2.4g0g+2.4g
Sugar1g0.1g+0.9g
Sodium49mg11mg+38.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Cauliflower

Per 100g:25 calories
Per cup (150g):38 calories
Per serving (85g):21 calories

Butter

Per 100g:717 calories
Per cup (150g):1076 calories
Per serving (85g):609 calories

Diet Compatibility

Cauliflower

Low-CarbLow-CalorieVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

Butter

KetoLow-CarbVegetarianLow-Sodium

When to Choose Cauliflower

  • Lower in calories (25 vs 717)
  • Higher in protein (1.9g vs 0.9g)
  • More fiber (2.4g vs 0g)

Common Uses

SaladsStir-friesRoasted sidesSoups
View full Cauliflower nutrition →

When to Choose Butter

  • Lower in carbs (0.1g vs 5g)
  • Less sugar (0.1g vs 1g)
  • Lower sodium (11mg vs 49mg)

Common Uses

BreakfastSnacksCooking ingredientPost-workout
View full Butter nutrition →

Cauliflower vs Butter: Nutritional Analysis

Butter is more calorie-dense at 717 calories per 100g compared to 25 for Cauliflower, a difference of 692 calories. On the protein front, Cauliflower delivers more with 1.9g per 100g versus 0.9g, 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 Cauliflower and Butter tell different nutritional stories. Cauliflower provides 5g of carbohydrates, 0.3g of fat, and 2.4g of fiber per 100g, while Butter contains 0.1g carbs, 81g fat, and 0g fiber. The higher fiber content in Cauliflower supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Cauliflower contains 1g while Butter has 0.1g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Cauliflower is the lower-calorie choice at 25 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Cauliflower provides more protein (1.9g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Cauliflower offers more fiber (2.4g/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, Cauliflower or Butter?

Butter has more calories with 717 kcal per 100g, compared to Cauliflower with 25 kcal. That's a difference of 692 calories per 100g serving.

Is Cauliflower healthier than Butter?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Cauliflower is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Cauliflower has 25 calories, 1.9g protein, and 2.4g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Cauliflower and Butter?

Cauliflower has more protein with 1.9g per 100g, compared to Butter with 0.9g. Cauliflower provides 1.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Cauliflower or Butter?

For weight loss, Cauliflower is the better choice with only 25 calories per 100g compared to 717 calories in Butter. Cauliflower also offers 2.4g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Cauliflower or Butter have fewer carbs?

Butter has fewer carbs with 0.1g per 100g, compared to Cauliflower with 5g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Butter is the better option with 4.9g 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.