Donut vs Cake: 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?
Both foods have similar nutritional profiles
Both foods have similar nutritional profiles with each winning in different categories. Your choice should depend on your specific dietary goals and preferences. Donut has 452 calories while Cake has 387 calories per 100g.
Quick Summary
Fewer Calories
Cake
387 kcal
More Protein
Donut
3g
More Fiber
Donut
1.4g
Less Sugar
Donut
21g
Visual Comparison
Side-by-Side Nutrition Table
Serving Size Comparison
All values above are per 100g. Here's how they compare in common serving sizes:
Donut
Cake
Diet Compatibility
Donut
Cake
When to Choose Donut
- ✓Higher in protein (3g vs 3g)
- ✓More fiber (1.4g vs 0.6g)
- ✓Less sugar (21g vs 38g)
Common Uses
When to Choose Cake
- ✓Lower in calories (387 vs 452)
- ✓Lower in carbs (47g vs 51g)
- ✓Lower sodium (356mg vs 386mg)
Common Uses
Donut vs Cake: Nutritional Analysis
Donut is more calorie-dense at 452 calories per 100g compared to 387 for Cake, a difference of 65 calories. 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 Donut and Cake tell different nutritional stories. Donut provides 51g of carbohydrates, 25g of fat, and 1.4g of fiber per 100g, while Cake contains 47g carbs, 20g fat, and 0.6g fiber. The higher fiber content in Donut supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Donut contains 21g while Cake has 38g 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: Donut provides more protein (3g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
- For sustained energy: Donut offers more fiber (1.4g/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, Donut or Cake?
Donut has more calories with 452 kcal per 100g, compared to Cake with 387 kcal. That's a difference of 65 calories per 100g serving.
Is Donut healthier than Cake?
Donut and Cake have similar nutritional profiles, with each food winning in different categories. The healthier choice depends on your specific dietary goals and nutritional needs.
What is the protein difference between Donut and Cake?
Donut and Cake have the same protein content at 3g per 100g.
Which is better for weight loss, Donut or Cake?
For weight loss, Cake is the better choice with only 387 calories per 100g compared to 452 calories in Donut. Donut also offers 1.4g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.
Does Donut or Cake have fewer carbs?
Cake has fewer carbs with 47g per 100g, compared to Donut with 51g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Cake is the better option with 4.0g fewer carbohydrates.
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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.