Decoding the Nutrition: How much protein is in a Reese's peanut butter egg?

November 7, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the official manufacturer's nutrition facts, a standard 1.2 oz Milk Chocolate Reese's Peanut Butter Egg contains 4 grams of protein. This article will explore the specific details answering How much protein is in a Reese's peanut butter egg? and provide context for its place in your overall nutrition diet.

Quick Summary

A standard 1.2 oz Reese's Peanut Butter Egg contains 4 grams of protein from its peanut butter filling. However, its overall nutritional profile is high in sugar and fat, so it should be considered a sweet treat rather than a significant protein source.

Key Points

Protein Content: A standard 1.2 oz Reese's Peanut Butter Egg provides 4 grams of protein, but this is a very small amount relative to its other macronutrients.
Source of Protein: The protein in the egg comes from the peanut butter filling, which is also high in fat and mixed with significant sugar.
High Sugar and Fat: The egg contains 17 grams of sugar and 10 grams of total fat, making it calorie-dense and not ideal for protein-seeking.
Nutritional Context: The egg is not a health food and should be consumed as an infrequent treat within a balanced diet rather than as a source of nutrition.
Better Protein Sources: For muscle building and satiety, opt for healthier, protein-rich alternatives like Greek yogurt, nuts, or lean meats.
Mindful Indulgence: When enjoying a sweet treat like a Reese's Egg, practice portion control and savor the experience to fit it into a balanced diet.
Check Labels: The exact nutritional content can vary by product size and type (e.g., snack size vs. standard), so always check the label.

Reese's Eggs: The Protein and the Big Picture

While often mistaken for a protein-rich snack due to its peanut butter core, a Reese's Peanut Butter Egg is, first and foremost, a candy. The protein content is a natural byproduct of the peanut butter, but it's essential to look at the full nutritional label to understand its role in a balanced diet. The amount of protein varies slightly depending on the specific product, so it's always wise to check the packaging.

The Nutritional Breakdown of a Standard Reese's Egg

Let's break down the nutrition facts for a standard 1.2 oz Milk Chocolate Reese's Peanut Butter Egg, using data provided by the manufacturer:

Protein: 4g
Calories: 170
Total Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3.5g
Sodium: 135mg
Total Carbohydrates: 18g
Total Sugars: 17g

For a smaller snack-size egg, the values are different. A piece weighing around 0.6 oz contains about 2 grams of protein and 90 calories. It's clear that while the egg does contain a small amount of protein, it is not a significant source, and its contribution is dwarfed by its sugar and fat content. For context, the daily value for protein on a 2,000-calorie diet is 50g, meaning one standard egg provides only about 8% of this value.

Comparing Reese's Eggs to Other Treats and Snacks

To put the Reese's Egg's protein count into perspective, it's helpful to compare it to other popular items. This table highlights how it stacks up against other Reese's products and some common, genuinely high-protein snacks.


Item	Serving Size	Calories	Protein	Sugar	Fat
Reese's Peanut Butter Egg	1.2 oz (1 egg)	170	4g	17g	10g
Standard Reese's Peanut Butter Cup	0.6 oz (1 cup)	88	1.7g	8g	5.2g
Reese's White Creme Peanut Butter Egg	1.2 oz (1 egg)	180	4g	17g	11g
Almonds	1 oz (approx. 23)	164	6g	1.2g	14g
Greek Yogurt (Plain)	6 oz	100	17g	6g	0g

As the table shows, if protein is your primary goal, a handful of almonds or a serving of Greek yogurt provides more protein with far less sugar. The protein in the Reese's Egg is simply not enough to qualify it as a high-protein snack, and the high sugar and fat content should be considered.

The Place of Indulgence in a Healthy Diet

So, is there a place for a Reese's Egg in a healthy diet? Absolutely. A healthy diet is about balance and moderation, not deprivation. Incorporating small indulgences can help prevent cravings and adherence to a long-term, sustainable eating plan. Instead of viewing it as a protein source, consider it a treat to be enjoyed mindfully.

Here are some tips for fitting a sweet treat into your nutrition plan:

Portion Control: Stick to a single egg rather than grabbing a whole bag. A snack-size egg is even smaller and can satisfy a craving without a large caloric impact.
Pair with Protein: To feel more satisfied, pair your treat with a truly protein-rich food like a handful of nuts or a piece of cheese. This can help prevent a sugar crash and balance out the blood sugar spike.
Enjoy Mindfully: Take your time to savor the flavor and texture of the candy. This mindful approach can make a small portion feel more satisfying and prevent overeating.
Plan Ahead: If you know you'll be having a treat, adjust your intake for the rest of the day. You can reduce some sugar or fat from other meals to accommodate it.

Beyond the Reese's Egg: Better Sources of Protein

If your goal is to increase your protein intake, especially for muscle repair, satiety, or weight management, there are far more efficient and nutritionally sound options. These include both animal-based and plant-based choices:

Animal-Based Protein Sources:

Lean meats (chicken breast, turkey)
Fish (salmon, tuna)
Eggs
Dairy products (Greek yogurt, cottage cheese)

Plant-Based Protein Sources:

Legumes (lentils, chickpeas, beans)
Nuts and seeds (almonds, chia seeds)
Tofu and tempeh
Quinoa

The Takeaway: A Treat, Not a Health Food

In conclusion, while a Reese's Peanut Butter Egg does contain a modest 4 grams of protein, it is not a practical or healthy way to meet your daily protein needs. Its high sugar and fat content classify it firmly as a dessert or treat. Enjoying it in moderation as part of an otherwise balanced and nutritious diet is the healthiest approach. For those serious about increasing protein, a wide variety of whole food alternatives are available that offer superior nutritional benefits without the sugar and saturated fat load.

For more specific nutritional information, it is always best to check the manufacturer's website. Hershey's website provides detailed and current nutritional data for their products.

Conclusion: A Small Treat in a Balanced Diet

At 4 grams of protein, a Reese's Peanut Butter Egg is not a high-protein food. Instead, it is a confectionary treat with high amounts of sugar and fat. The best approach is to enjoy it as an occasional indulgence rather than a regular snack. Focusing on whole, nutrient-dense foods for your protein intake and considering sweets as a bonus can help you maintain a healthy and balanced eating plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

A standard 1.2 oz milk chocolate Reese's Peanut Butter Egg contains 4 grams of protein.

No, a Reese's egg is not a good source of protein for muscle building. While it contains 4 grams, this amount is negligible compared to healthier, protein-dense options, and it comes with high levels of sugar and saturated fat.

A single 0.6 oz snack-size Reese's cup contains 1.7 grams of protein, meaning a 1.2 oz egg has more protein per serving. However, the egg also has more total calories, fat, and sugar.

The protein in a Reese's peanut butter egg comes from the peanut butter filling. Peanut butter is a legume-based food that contains protein, fat, and carbohydrates.

A standard 1.2 oz Reese's Peanut Butter Egg contains 170 calories. A smaller snack-size version will have fewer calories.

You can incorporate a treat like a Reese's egg by practicing mindful consumption. Stick to a single portion, savor the flavor, and balance your intake by consuming nutrient-dense foods for the rest of your meals.

Yes, there are many healthier, protein-rich alternatives. Greek yogurt, nuts, seeds, lean meats, and plant-based options like tofu or lentils offer significantly more protein and better overall nutrition.