Calorie Chart / Breakfast, Snacks / Pound cake
How Many Calories Are in Pound cake?
Calculation of the nutritional value & Recommended Dietary Intake of pound cake
For g and a calorie requirement of kcal
| Calories 120 kcal | Proteins 1.7 g | Lipids 4.2 g | Carbohydrates 19 g |
| 6% | 2% | 6% | 7% |
Health benefits of pound cake
Pound cake - 100g
Calories 400 kcal
Proteins 5.5 g
Lipids 14 g
Carbohydrates 63 g
Pound cake is considered a high-calorie pastry (about 400 kcal per 100 g), which makes it an efficient source of quick energy when physical or intellectual effort is required. Thanks to its traditional ingredients—eggs, butter, sugar, and flour—it supplies B-group vitamins (notably B2 and B9 from the eggs and wheat), small amounts of iron and selenium, and traces of calcium. These micronutrients support normal metabolism and help the body convert food into energy, thereby linking micronutrient intake to the management of calories.
Its moderate protein content derives mainly from the eggs, while the lipids provide fat-soluble vitamin A. Although rich in carbohydrates, the cake contains little fibre, so its calories are rapidly absorbed. Athletes sometimes use a thin slice before endurance events for a swift glycogen top-up. Historically, the name comes from the original English recipe that called for "a pound of each ingredient," explaining why the final product is naturally dense in calories. Homemade versions occasionally include ground almond or citrus zest for added flavour and antioxidants—without drastically changing the overall calories.
Because pound cake travels well, sailors in the 18th century packed it for long trips, valuing its long shelf life and concentrated calories. Whether you are looking for weight gain strategies or simply a comforting dessert, knowing the high-calorie nature of pound cake helps you plan the rest of your meals accordingly.
Tips for incorporating pound cake into a balanced diet
To keep calories in check, enjoy a 40 g slice of pound cake with a generous portion of fresh strawberry salad or diced apple; the fruit fibre slows sugar absorption and balances the meal. For breakfast, combine a small serving with a pot of plain yogurt and a sprinkle of chia seeds to boost proteins and omega-3 while moderating calories overall.
If you crave a more indulgent treat, lightly toast the cake and top it with a spoonful of homemade compote—try apricot or banana—rather than whipped cream, reducing added fats and thus total calories. Athletes can turn pound cake into an energy bar by adding dried raisins and finely chopped hazelnuts; pair it with a bottle of water or unsweetened coffee for a convenient post-workout recharge.
For a balanced dessert plate, serve thin slices alongside a bowl of fruit salad or a scoop of sorbet. Remember that the cake is high in calories, so portion control matters: one standard slice (≈30 g) contains roughly 120 kcal, leaving room in your daily calorie budget for lean mains such as chicken breast with broccoli.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How many calories are in pound cake?
- There are about 400 kcal per 100 g.
- Is pound cake suitable for a weight-loss diet?
- Because it is high in calories and low in fibre, pound cake should be eaten in small portions and balanced with low-calorie foods such as cucumber salads or steamed green beans.
- Which macronutrient dominates pound cake calories?
- Most calories come from carbohydrates (around 63 g per 100 g), followed by fats.
- Can I freeze pound cake without altering its calories?
- Yes, freezing changes texture but not calories; wrap slices individually for easy portion control.
- Is homemade pound cake lower in calories than store-bought?
- It can be if you reduce sugar or substitute part of the butter with light yogurt, but the recipe remains calorie-dense.
- What is a reasonable serving size to limit calories?
- Many dietitians suggest 30-40 g (about a thin slice), providing 120-160 kcal.
- Are there gluten-free alternatives with similar calories?
- Gluten-free pound cakes made with rice or buckwheat flour have comparable calories, so portion advice stays the same.
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Information provided by Calorie Menu may contain inaccuracies or errors. It cannot, under any circumstances, substitute medical advice or medication.
