A Decadent Treat: The Calorie Count of Portillo's Famous Chocolate Cake
For many, a trip to Portillo's is incomplete without a slice of their famous, moist, and rich chocolate cake. But before you dive into that chocolaty goodness, it's worth knowing what you're consuming. The official nutrition information confirms that a single serving of Portillo's Famous Chocolate Cake packs a significant 720 calories. This places it on the higher end of the dessert spectrum compared to many others offered at similar restaurant chains.
Detailed Nutritional Breakdown
Beyond just the total calorie count, a deeper look at the cake's nutritional profile reveals where those calories come from. According to data from Nutritionix and Eat This Much, a single serving is loaded with high amounts of sugar and fat.
Here is a list of the key nutritional facts for one slice:
- Total Calories: 720 Cal
- Total Fat: 37g, which is 47% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Saturated Fat: 11g, representing 55% of the DV
- Cholesterol: 120mg, or 40% of the DV
- Sodium: 780mg, an eyebrow-raising 34% of the DV
- Total Carbohydrates: 86g, or 31% of the DV
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: A hefty 64g
- Protein: 6g
The high levels of saturated fat and sugar are typical for many restaurant desserts, but the 780mg of sodium is particularly noteworthy. For context, the recommended daily sodium intake for most adults is around 2,300mg, meaning this one dessert provides over a third of that amount.
Comparison with Other Portillo's Desserts
To put the chocolate cake's nutritional value into perspective, it helps to compare it with other dessert options on the Portillo's menu. This comparison can help you make a more informed choice if you're watching your intake.
| Dessert | Calories | Fat (g) | Sugar (g) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Famous Chocolate Cake | 720 | 37 | 64 |
| Strawberry Shortcake | 480 | N/A | N/A |
| Chocolate Éclair Cake | 520 | N/A | N/A |
| Salted Caramel Spice Cake | 800 | 40 | 78 |
Note: Fat and sugar data for Strawberry Shortcake and Chocolate Éclair Cake are not readily available from the provided search results.
As the table shows, the Famous Chocolate Cake is the second most caloric cake option listed, falling just behind the Salted Caramel Spice Cake. The Strawberry Shortcake is the lightest of the cake options, with a significantly lower calorie count.
The Recipe's Rich Ingredients
What makes Portillo's cake so rich and moist? While the official recipe is a closely guarded secret, copycat recipes online often point to a surprising ingredient: mayonnaise. This gives the cake its signature moistness and also contributes to the high fat content. The combination of cocoa powder, multiple cups of sugar, and rich chocolate frosting further contributes to the total calories and sugar content.
Enjoying Your Indulgence Responsibly
If you're still set on enjoying a slice, here are some tips for a more responsible indulgence:
- Share a slice: The cake is large and decadent, making it perfect for sharing. Dividing it with a friend or family member is a great way to cut the calories in half.
- Pair with water: Instead of a sugary drink, opt for water. This will help you avoid adding even more sugar and calories to your meal.
- Plan ahead: If you know you're going to have a dessert like this, you can plan the rest of your meals for the day accordingly to stay within your overall calorie and macro goals.
Conclusion
When you're craving a rich and satisfying dessert from Portillo's, be aware that the famous chocolate cake is an indulgent choice. A single piece contains 720 calories, alongside high levels of fat, sugar, and sodium. While a delicious treat, it's not an everyday option for those mindful of their nutritional intake. By understanding the nutritional facts and making conscious choices, you can still enjoy this iconic Chicago classic without derailing your diet completely.
For more information on the full menu, visit the official Portillo's website: Portillo's Menu & Locations.
