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

Parmesan vs Brownie: 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?

Parmesan is generally healthier

Parmesan comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (431 vs 466), more protein (38g vs 6.3g), less sugar (0.7g vs 48g), making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Parmesan

431 kcal

More Protein

Parmesan

38g

More Fiber

Brownie

3g

Less Sugar

Parmesan

0.7g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Parmesan
431
Brownie
466
Proteinper 100g
Parmesan
38g
Brownie
6.3g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Parmesan
4.1g
Brownie
63g
Fatper 100g
Parmesan
29g
Brownie
22g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientParmesanBrownieDifference
Calories431kcal466kcal-35.0kcal
Protein38g6.3g+31.7g
Carbohydrates4.1g63g-58.9g
Fat29g22g+7.0g
Fiber0g3g-3.0g
Sugar0.7g48g-47.3g
Sodium1529mg231mg+1298.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Parmesan

Per 100g:431 calories
Per cup (150g):647 calories
Per serving (85g):366 calories

Brownie

Per 100g:466 calories
Per cup (150g):699 calories
Per serving (85g):396 calories

Diet Compatibility

Parmesan

KetoLow-CarbHigh-ProteinVegetarian

Brownie

VeganVegetarian

When to Choose Parmesan

  • Lower in calories (431 vs 466)
  • Higher in protein (38g vs 6.3g)
  • Lower in carbs (4.1g vs 63g)
  • Less sugar (0.7g vs 48g)

Common Uses

BreakfastSnacksCooking ingredientPost-workout
View full Parmesan nutrition →

When to Choose Brownie

  • More fiber (3g vs 0g)
  • Lower sodium (231mg vs 1529mg)

Common Uses

TreatsCelebrationsComfort foodSocial occasions
View full Brownie nutrition →

Parmesan vs Brownie: Nutritional Analysis

Brownie is more calorie-dense at 466 calories per 100g compared to 431 for Parmesan, a difference of 35 calories. On the protein front, Parmesan delivers more with 38g per 100g versus 6.3g, 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 Parmesan and Brownie tell different nutritional stories. Parmesan provides 4.1g of carbohydrates, 29g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Brownie contains 63g carbs, 22g fat, and 3g fiber. The higher fiber content in Brownie supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Parmesan contains 0.7g while Brownie has 48g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Parmesan is the lower-calorie choice at 431 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Parmesan provides more protein (38g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Brownie offers more fiber (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, Parmesan or Brownie?

Brownie has more calories with 466 kcal per 100g, compared to Parmesan with 431 kcal. That's a difference of 35 calories per 100g serving.

Is Parmesan healthier than Brownie?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Parmesan is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Parmesan has 431 calories, 38g protein, and 0g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Parmesan and Brownie?

Parmesan has more protein with 38g per 100g, compared to Brownie with 6.3g. Parmesan provides 31.7g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Parmesan or Brownie?

For weight loss, Parmesan is the better choice with only 431 calories per 100g compared to 466 calories in Brownie. Brownie also offers 3g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Parmesan or Brownie have fewer carbs?

Parmesan has fewer carbs with 4.1g per 100g, compared to Brownie with 63g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Parmesan is the better option with 58.9g 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.