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

Peanut Butter vs Crackers: 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?

Peanut Butter is generally healthier

Peanut Butter comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has more protein (25g vs 6g), more fiber (6g vs 2g), less sodium (459mg vs 735mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Crackers

421 kcal

More Protein

Peanut Butter

25g

More Fiber

Peanut Butter

6g

Less Sugar

Crackers

1.5g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Peanut Butter
588
Crackers
421
Proteinper 100g
Peanut Butter
25g
Crackers
6g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Peanut Butter
20g
Crackers
71g
Fatper 100g
Peanut Butter
50g
Crackers
11g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientPeanut ButterCrackersDifference
Calories588kcal421kcal+167.0kcal
Protein25g6g+19.0g
Carbohydrates20g71g-51.0g
Fat50g11g+39.0g
Fiber6g2g+4.0g
Sugar9.4g1.5g+7.9g
Sodium459mg735mg-276.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Peanut Butter

Per 100g:588 calories
Per cup (150g):882 calories
Per serving (85g):500 calories

Crackers

Per 100g:421 calories
Per cup (150g):632 calories
Per serving (85g):358 calories

Diet Compatibility

Peanut Butter

High-ProteinVeganVegetarianPaleo

Crackers

VeganVegetarian

When to Choose Peanut Butter

  • Higher in protein (25g vs 6g)
  • More fiber (6g vs 2g)
  • Lower in carbs (20g vs 71g)
  • Lower sodium (459mg vs 735mg)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Peanut Butter nutrition →

When to Choose Crackers

  • Lower in calories (421 vs 588)
  • Less sugar (1.5g vs 9.4g)

Common Uses

Between mealsMovie nightsPartiesTravel food
View full Crackers nutrition →

Peanut Butter vs Crackers: Nutritional Analysis

Peanut Butter is more calorie-dense at 588 calories per 100g compared to 421 for Crackers, a difference of 167 calories. On the protein front, Peanut Butter delivers more with 25g per 100g versus 6g, 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 Peanut Butter and Crackers tell different nutritional stories. Peanut Butter provides 20g of carbohydrates, 50g of fat, and 6g of fiber per 100g, while Crackers contains 71g carbs, 11g fat, and 2g fiber. The higher fiber content in Peanut Butter supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Peanut Butter contains 9.4g while Crackers has 1.5g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Crackers is the lower-calorie choice at 421 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Peanut Butter provides more protein (25g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Peanut Butter offers more fiber (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, Peanut Butter or Crackers?

Peanut Butter has more calories with 588 kcal per 100g, compared to Crackers with 421 kcal. That's a difference of 167 calories per 100g serving.

Is Peanut Butter healthier than Crackers?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Peanut Butter is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Peanut Butter has 588 calories, 25g protein, and 6g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Peanut Butter and Crackers?

Peanut Butter has more protein with 25g per 100g, compared to Crackers with 6g. Peanut Butter provides 19.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Peanut Butter or Crackers?

For weight loss, Crackers is the better choice with only 421 calories per 100g compared to 588 calories in Peanut Butter. Peanut Butter also offers 6g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Peanut Butter or Crackers have fewer carbs?

Peanut Butter has fewer carbs with 20g per 100g, compared to Crackers with 71g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Peanut Butter is the better option with 51.0g 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.