This study was carried out to investigate the effect of maltodextrin on the characteristics of low-calorie layer cake. Different levels of maltodextrin were added to the cake formula based on the weight of shortening. The specific gravity of cake batter was decreased by increasing the level of maltodextrin, whereas the viscosity showed an opposite trend. The microstructures of cake crumb observed by the scanning electron microscope showed the decrease of the number and size of air cells, and those of fat particles were also decreased by increasing the level of maltodextrin. The texture profile analysis of layer cake showed statistically significant differences according to the levels of maltodextrin. Hardness, gumminess and chewiness of the cake batter were decreased by adding maltodextrin, while springiness, cohesiveness and resilience increased. According to the sensory evaluation, the scores of taste and texture were decreased by adding maltodextrin, but the scores of appearance, color, flavor and overall preference of the layer cake increased. Overall results suggested that the addition of 35% maltodextrin could be the best replacing ratio for the low-calorie layer cake.