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

Pistachios vs Cookie: 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?

Pistachios is generally healthier

Pistachios comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has more protein (20g vs 2g), more fiber (10g vs 1.2g), less sugar (7.7g vs 33g), less sodium (1mg vs 361mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Cookie

435 kcal

More Protein

Pistachios

20g

More Fiber

Pistachios

10g

Less Sugar

Pistachios

7.7g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Pistachios
560
Cookie
435
Proteinper 100g
Pistachios
20g
Cookie
2g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Pistachios
28g
Cookie
58g
Fatper 100g
Pistachios
45g
Cookie
21g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientPistachiosCookieDifference
Calories560kcal435kcal+125.0kcal
Protein20g2g+18.0g
Carbohydrates28g58g-30.0g
Fat45g21g+24.0g
Fiber10g1.2g+8.8g
Sugar7.7g33g-25.3g
Sodium1mg361mg-360.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Pistachios

Per 100g:560 calories
Per cup (150g):840 calories
Per serving (85g):476 calories

Cookie

Per 100g:435 calories
Per cup (150g):653 calories
Per serving (85g):370 calories

Diet Compatibility

Pistachios

High-ProteinVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

Cookie

VeganVegetarian

When to Choose Pistachios

  • Higher in protein (20g vs 2g)
  • More fiber (10g vs 1.2g)
  • Lower in carbs (28g vs 58g)
  • Less sugar (7.7g vs 33g)
  • Lower sodium (1mg vs 361mg)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Pistachios nutrition →

When to Choose Cookie

  • Lower in calories (435 vs 560)

Common Uses

TreatsCelebrationsComfort foodSocial occasions
View full Cookie nutrition →

Pistachios vs Cookie: Nutritional Analysis

Pistachios is more calorie-dense at 560 calories per 100g compared to 435 for Cookie, a difference of 125 calories. On the protein front, Pistachios delivers more with 20g per 100g versus 2g, 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 Pistachios and Cookie tell different nutritional stories. Pistachios provides 28g of carbohydrates, 45g of fat, and 10g of fiber per 100g, while Cookie contains 58g carbs, 21g fat, and 1.2g fiber. The higher fiber content in Pistachios supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Pistachios contains 7.7g while Cookie has 33g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Cookie is the lower-calorie choice at 435 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Pistachios provides more protein (20g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Pistachios offers more fiber (10g/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, Pistachios or Cookie?

Pistachios has more calories with 560 kcal per 100g, compared to Cookie with 435 kcal. That's a difference of 125 calories per 100g serving.

Is Pistachios healthier than Cookie?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Pistachios is generally the healthier choice, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Pistachios has 560 calories, 20g protein, and 10g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Pistachios and Cookie?

Pistachios has more protein with 20g per 100g, compared to Cookie with 2g. Pistachios provides 18.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Pistachios or Cookie?

For weight loss, Cookie is the better choice with only 435 calories per 100g compared to 560 calories in Pistachios. Pistachios also offers 10g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Pistachios or Cookie have fewer carbs?

Pistachios has fewer carbs with 28g per 100g, compared to Cookie with 58g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Pistachios is the better option with 30.0g 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.