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

Granola vs Cashews: 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?

Granola is generally healthier

Granola comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (471 vs 553), more fiber (8.6g vs 3.3g), less sodium (5mg vs 10mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Granola

471 kcal

More Protein

Cashews

18g

More Fiber

Granola

8.6g

Less Sugar

Cashews

5.9g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Granola
471
Cashews
553
Proteinper 100g
Granola
9.4g
Cashews
18g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Granola
68g
Cashews
30g
Fatper 100g
Granola
18g
Cashews
44g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientGranolaCashewsDifference
Calories471kcal553kcal-82.0kcal
Protein9.4g18g-8.6g
Carbohydrates68g30g+38.0g
Fat18g44g-26.0g
Fiber8.6g3.3g+5.3g
Sugar33g5.9g+27.1g
Sodium5mg10mg-5.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Granola

Per 100g:471 calories
Per cup (150g):707 calories
Per serving (85g):400 calories

Cashews

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

Diet Compatibility

Granola

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

Cashews

High-ProteinVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Granola

  • Lower in calories (471 vs 553)
  • More fiber (8.6g vs 3.3g)
  • Lower sodium (5mg vs 10mg)

Common Uses

Between mealsMovie nightsPartiesTravel food
View full Granola nutrition →

When to Choose Cashews

  • Higher in protein (18g vs 9.4g)
  • Lower in carbs (30g vs 68g)
  • Less sugar (5.9g vs 33g)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Cashews nutrition →

Granola vs Cashews: Nutritional Analysis

Cashews is more calorie-dense at 553 calories per 100g compared to 471 for Granola, a difference of 82 calories. On the protein front, Cashews delivers more with 18g per 100g versus 9.4g, 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 Granola and Cashews tell different nutritional stories. Granola provides 68g of carbohydrates, 18g of fat, and 8.6g of fiber per 100g, while Cashews contains 30g carbs, 44g fat, and 3.3g fiber. The higher fiber content in Granola supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Granola contains 33g while Cashews has 5.9g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Granola is the lower-calorie choice at 471 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: Granola offers more fiber (8.6g/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, Granola or Cashews?

Cashews has more calories with 553 kcal per 100g, compared to Granola with 471 kcal. That's a difference of 82 calories per 100g serving.

Is Granola healthier than Cashews?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Granola is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Granola has 471 calories, 9.4g protein, and 8.6g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Granola and Cashews?

Cashews has more protein with 18g per 100g, compared to Granola with 9.4g. Cashews provides 8.6g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Granola or Cashews?

For weight loss, Granola is the better choice with only 471 calories per 100g compared to 553 calories in Cashews. Granola also offers 8.6g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Granola or Cashews have fewer carbs?

Cashews has fewer carbs with 30g per 100g, compared to Granola with 68g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Cashews is the better option with 38.0g 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.