Lightened-Up Banana Brownies Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
  • 1¾ cups granulated sugar (or substitute with a zero-calorie sweetener)
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup ripe banana mash (about 2 medium bananas)
  • 1 can (14 ounces) fat-free sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 tub (8 ounces) light whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
  • Optional: Dark chocolate chips (for a chocolaty twist, use in moderation)
  • Optional: ½ cup light sour cream (for a moist texture)
  • Optional: Chopped nuts or chocolate bits (for a crunchy surprise)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan by lightly greasing it and dusting with flour.
  2. Prepare the batter:
    • In a large bowl, whisk together the melted and cooled butter and granulated sugar (or zero-calorie sweetener) until light and fluffy.
    • Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
    • Stir in the mashed bananas.
  3. Combine dry ingredients:
    • In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  4. Mix wet and dry ingredients:
    • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
  5. Add sweetened condensed milk:
    • Pour in the sweetened condensed milk and fold it into the batter until evenly distributed.
  6. Bake the brownies:
    • Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly.
    • Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
  7. Optional toppings:
    • Once cooled, top the brownies with a layer of light whipped topping.
    • Optionally, sprinkle with dark chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or chocolate bits for added flavor and texture.
  8. Serve and enjoy:
    • Cut into squares and serve. Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator.

Tips to Keep the Points Low:

  • Use zero-calorie sweetener: Substitute granulated sugar with a zero-calorie sweetener to reduce points.
  • Use light ingredients: Opt for fat-free sweetened condensed milk and light whipped topping to lower fat and points.
  • Moderate add-ins: Use dark chocolate chips and nuts sparingly to keep points in check.

Nutritional Information (per serving, makes approximately 24 servings):

  • Calories: 180
  • Protein: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 26g
  • Fat: 7g
  • Fiber: 1g

Weight Watchers Points (per serving):

  • WW PointsPlus: 5
  • WW SmartPoints: 7
  • WW Freestyle Points: 7

This lightened-up version of banana brownies allows you to enjoy a delicious treat while staying mindful of your points on the Weight Watchers plan. Enjoy your baking!