Low-Point Churro Cracker Candy: A Weight Watchers Friendly Recipe

Welcome to our comprehensive guide for crafting Churro Cracker Candy with a Weight Watchers (WW) twist. This recipe takes the indulgent treat and transforms it into a more WW-friendly version. We’ll walk you through the entire process, from ingredients to nutrition, ensuring you can enjoy this sweet delight without compromising your wellness goals. Below, you will find a detailed breakdown of measurements, instructions, nutritional information, and WW SmartPoints values.

Ingredients

For the Churro Cracker Candy:

  • 12 whole grain crackers (like Triscuit or another WW-approved option) – Look for low-fat, low-sodium varieties.
  • ¼ cup light brown sugar (or a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia, adjusted for taste) – This adds the classic sweetness of churros.
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon – For that signature churro flavor.
  • ½ cup unsweetened applesauce – Used in place of butter or oil for a lower fat content.
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil – Optional, for a touch of richness.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor.
  • Pinch of salt – To balance out the sweetness.

For Optional Toppings:

  • 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness) – You can use a low-calorie alternative if desired.
  • Fresh fruit or a dollop of Greek yogurt – To serve alongside the candy for added freshness.

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the crackers will bake evenly and become crispy.
  2. Prepare the Baking Sheet:
    • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the crackers from sticking and make cleanup easier.
  3. Arrange the Crackers:
    • Place the whole grain crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they are not overlapping to allow even baking.
  4. Mix the Cinnamon Sugar:
    • In a small bowl, combine the light brown sugar with 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. If using a sugar substitute, mix according to the package instructions to achieve the right sweetness level.
  5. Prepare the Sauce:
    • In a separate bowl, mix ½ cup of unsweetened applesauce with 1 tablespoon of melted coconut oil (if using) and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
  6. Brush the Crackers:
    • Use a pastry brush to lightly coat each cracker with the applesauce mixture. This will help the cinnamon sugar adhere to the crackers and create a sweet, crisp topping.
  7. Sprinkle the Cinnamon Sugar:
    • Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the applesauce-coated crackers. Be generous but ensure an even distribution to achieve a consistent flavor.
  8. Bake the Crackers:
    • Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning. The crackers should be crispy and the sugar should be melted and slightly caramelized.
  9. Cool the Crackers:
    • Once baked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the crackers cool on the sheet for 5 minutes. They will continue to crisp up as they cool.
  10. Optional Toppings:
    • If desired, lightly dust the cooled crackers with 1 tablespoon of powdered sugar. This adds an extra touch of sweetness but can be omitted for a lower WW point value.
  11. Serve and Enjoy:
    • Serve the Churro Cracker Candy as a sweet treat or snack. You can also pair it with fresh fruit or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a more balanced snack option.
  12. Store Leftovers:
    • Store any leftover Churro Cracker Candy in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay crisp for up to one week.
  13. Reheating Instructions:
    • If the crackers become soft, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to restore their crispiness.
  14. Nutritional Benefits:
    • This recipe uses whole grain crackers for added fiber and unsweetened applesauce to reduce fat content. The combination of cinnamon and applesauce offers a sweet, satisfying flavor without excessive calories.
  15. Dietary Considerations:
    • This recipe is suitable for a variety of diets, including those looking to reduce fat and sugar intake. Be mindful of portion sizes to keep the SmartPoints low.
  16. Flavor Variations:
    • Experiment with different spices such as nutmeg or cardamom for a unique twist. You can also try adding a small amount of cocoa powder for a chocolatey flavor.
  17. Meal Prep Tips:
    • Prepare a batch of these Churro Crackers at the beginning of the week for easy snacking. They are perfect for portion control and can be packed for on-the-go.
  18. Special Occasions:
    • These Churro Crackers make a great addition to a dessert spread or as a sweet treat during a gathering. They are sure to be a hit with family and friends.
  19. Weight Watchers Considerations:
    • Adjust the recipe as needed to fit within your daily SmartPoints allowance. Use low-calorie sweeteners and minimal added fats to keep the points low.
  20. Nutritional Information and SmartPoints:

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Makes 12 Servings)

  • Calories: 60
  • Total Fat: 1.5g
    • Saturated Fat: 0.5g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 70mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 12g
    • Dietary Fiber: 1g
    • Sugars: 6g
  • Net Carbohydrates: 11g
  • Protein: 1g

Weight Watchers SmartPoints Value:

  • SmartPoints: 3 (per serving, based on Weight Watchers 2024 calculation)