A single piece of Regent pandan cake, typically weighing 20 grams, contains 80 calories. This Filipino treat, known for its soft sponge and fragrant pandan flavor, is a popular snack. While its small size makes it seem like a harmless indulgence, understanding its full nutritional profile is key for anyone watching their intake. The calories in a Regent pandan layer cake are primarily derived from its high carbohydrate and fat content, with ingredients like sugar, flour, and vegetable shortening being the main caloric sources.
The Nutritional Breakdown of a Regent Pandan Cake
To fully appreciate the caloric value, one must look at the macro and micronutrient composition. For one 20-gram serving, the nutritional facts are as follows:
- Total Fat: 3g (4% Daily Value)
- Saturated Fat: 3g (15% Daily Value)
- Cholesterol: 40mg (13% Daily Value)
- Sodium: 40mg (2% Daily Value)
- Total Carbohydrates: 13g (5% Daily Value)
- Dietary Fiber: 2g (7% Daily Value)
- Total Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 2g (4% Daily Value)
What a Single Piece Offers
With 80 calories packed into a small, convenient snack, it's easy to see why moderation is important. The macronutrient breakdown is approximately 56% carbohydrates, 34% fat, and 10% protein. The relatively high percentage of saturated fat and the presence of cholesterol means that while it is a treat, it should not be a dietary staple. A single piece contributes a modest amount to daily values, but consuming multiple pieces quickly adds up in calories, fat, and sugar.
Ingredients and Their Caloric Contribution
The specific ingredients play a direct role in the calorie and nutrient content. The ingredient list includes sugar, wheat flour, eggs, corn syrup, milk powder, and vegetable shortening.
- Sugar and Corn Syrup: Both are simple carbohydrates that contribute to the sugar content and provide immediate, but often short-lived, energy. These are the main sources of sweetness and significant caloric drivers.
- Wheat Flour: A key source of carbohydrates, providing the structural base for the sponge cake.
- Vegetable Shortening: This is a major contributor to the cake's fat content, especially saturated fat, which gives it its texture and richness.
- Eggs: Contribute to both protein and fat content, along with the cholesterol noted in the nutrition facts.
Comparing Regent Pandan Cake to Other Treats
It can be helpful to compare the Regent Pandan Cake to other similar snacks to put its calorie count in perspective. Here is a comparative table of different pandan and sponge cakes based on approximate serving sizes:
| Product | Serving Size | Calories (approx.) | Primary Macronutrient Source | Saturated Fat (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regent Pandan Cake | 1 piece (20g) | 80 kcal | Carbohydrates & Fat | 3g |
| Pandan Chiffon Cake (Homemade) | 1 slice (60g, variable) | 160-250 kcal (variable) | Carbohydrates & Fat | 4-10g (variable) |
| Starbucks Pandan Chiffon Cake | 1 slice (46g) | 159 kcal | Carbohydrates & Fat | 6.8g |
| Typical Sponge Cake | 1 slice (50g, variable) | 150-200 kcal (variable) | Carbohydrates | 5-8g (variable) |
This comparison highlights that the Regent cake is relatively low in calories and fat per piece compared to a larger, homemade or café-style slice. However, the calorie count per 100g is quite dense at around 400 kcal. The smaller, portion-controlled size is key to its lower per-serving count.
Making an Informed Decision for Your Diet
While a single Regent pandan cake is a low-calorie option, making an informed decision involves more than just the number of calories. Considerations include:
- Satiety: The small size and simple carbohydrate content mean this snack might not provide significant satiety, potentially leading to eating more than one piece.
- Nutrient Density: The cake is not very nutrient-dense, lacking substantial vitamins, minerals, or fiber. It serves more as a treat than a source of essential nutrients.
- Sugar Content: For those mindful of sugar intake, the 6 grams per piece is notable. Consuming sugary snacks regularly can impact blood sugar levels and overall health.
The Verdict: Regent Pandan Cake as a Snack
The Regent pandan layer cake is best viewed as a simple, portion-controlled treat. It's not a health food, but its small size makes it easy to fit into a balanced diet without derailing calorie goals, provided you stick to just one or two pieces. For a more satisfying and nutritious snack, pairing it with something high in fiber or protein, like a piece of fruit or a handful of nuts, is recommended.
Conclusion
Ultimately, a single Regent pandan layer cake contains 80 calories. While this figure is relatively low for a snack, its nutritional profile is dominated by carbohydrates and fat from sugar and shortening. It can be enjoyed as an occasional treat within a balanced diet, but its lack of substantial nutrients and high calorie density per 100 grams means it shouldn't be a go-to snack. For a broader range of products from the manufacturer, you can visit the official Regent Food Corporation website.
