Weight Watchers Low-Points Biscuits with Cheese and Bacon in Puff Pastry Recipe

Introduction:

Welcome to our comprehensive guide for preparing Biscuits with Cheese and Bacon in Puff Pastry, tailored to fit seamlessly into your Weight Watchers (WW) plan. This recipe transforms classic comfort food into a lighter, WW-friendly version that doesn’t compromise on flavor. We have meticulously detailed each step to ensure you achieve perfect results, including precise measurements, step-by-step instructions, nutritional breakdown, and SmartPoints values. Whether you’re planning a brunch or a savory snack, this recipe provides a delightful treat while keeping your points in check.

Ingredients:

For the Biscuits:

  • Puff Pastry Sheets: 1 package (17.3 ounces; use reduced-fat puff pastry if available for lower points)
  • Cheddar Cheese: ½ cup shredded (use reduced-fat cheese if available)
  • Cooked Bacon: 4 slices (crumbled; opt for turkey bacon for lower fat content)
  • Egg Wash: 1 egg (beaten with 1 tablespoon water; for brushing)

For the Seasoning:

  • Garlic Powder: ¼ teaspoon (for flavor)
  • Onion Powder: ¼ teaspoon (adds a savory depth)
  • Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon (for a touch of heat)
  • Paprika: ¼ teaspoon (adds color and flavor)
  • Salt: ¼ teaspoon (adjust according to taste and dietary restrictions)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat Oven:
  • Set Temperature: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your biscuits will bake evenly and achieve a golden-brown color.
  1. Prepare Puff Pastry:
  • Thaw: If using frozen puff pastry, allow it to thaw according to the package instructions, usually about 30 minutes at room temperature.
  • Roll Out: Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the puff pastry sheets to smooth any creases. Aim for a rectangle approximately 12×10 inches.
  1. Prepare the Filling:
  • Cook Bacon: Cook 4 slices of bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble into small pieces.
  • Shred Cheese: Shred ½ cup of cheddar cheese. For a lighter option, use reduced-fat cheddar.
  1. Assemble the Biscuits:
  • Spread Filling: Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheese over the rolled-out puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
  • Add Bacon: Distribute the crumbled bacon over the cheese. Lightly press the bacon and cheese into the pastry.
  1. Season the Pastry:
  • Seasoning Mix: In a small bowl, combine ¼ teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, paprika, and salt.
  • Sprinkle: Evenly sprinkle this seasoning mix over the bacon and cheese for enhanced flavor.
  1. Cut the Biscuits:
  • Shape: Use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to cut the pastry into squares or rectangles, approximately 2 inches on each side. Alternatively, use a biscuit cutter for a round shape.
  1. Prepare for Baking:
  • Egg Wash: Beat 1 egg with 1 tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. Brush this mixture lightly over the top of each biscuit to achieve a golden, shiny finish.
  • Arrange: Place the cut biscuits onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are spaced at least 1 inch apart.
  1. Bake:
  • Bake Time: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and puffed up.
  • Check: Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent over-browning.
  1. Cool and Serve:
  • Cool: Allow the biscuits to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set and avoids sogginess.
  • Serve: Enjoy warm as a savory snack or appetizer. These biscuits are perfect for a brunch or as part of a meal.

Storing and Reheating:

  1. Refrigeration: Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  2. Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the biscuits in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat from frozen in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

Nutritional Information (per biscuit, assuming 12 biscuits total):

  • Calories: 120
  • Total Fat: 8 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 4 grams
  • Cholesterol: 30 milligrams
  • Sodium: 220 milligrams
  • Total Carbohydrates: 8 grams
  • Net Carbohydrates: 7 grams
  • Dietary Fiber: 1 gram
  • Protein: 5 grams

SmartPoints (WW):

For Weight Watchers (WW) participants, each biscuit is approximately 5 SmartPoints. This value is based on the use of standard ingredients. Variations in ingredient brands or amounts may alter the SmartPoints value.

Additional Tips:

  1. Ingredient Substitutions: Opt for turkey bacon or a lower-fat cheese to reduce the SmartPoints value. Additionally, using a reduced-fat puff pastry can further lower the points.
  2. Spice Variations: Experiment with different spices or herbs to customize the flavor of your biscuits. Consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
  3. Serving Suggestions: Pair these biscuits with a light salad or vegetable soup for a balanced meal. They also make a great addition to a charcuterie board.

Conclusion:

Our Weight Watchers Low-Points Biscuits with Cheese and Bacon in Puff Pastry offer a delectable way to enjoy a classic treat while adhering to your WW plan. With careful attention to ingredient choices and preparation methods, you can savor these savory biscuits without exceeding your SmartPoints. This detailed guide ensures that you achieve perfectly baked biscuits every time, making your weight management journey both enjoyable and successful. Enjoy the indulgence of cheese and bacon in a lighter format with this flavorful recipe.