Lunch Lady Brownie Recipe

Introduction

The WW Lunch Lady Brownie is a delightful treat that captures the nostalgic charm of classic school lunchroom desserts while aligning with Weight Watchers (WW) guidelines for a healthier lifestyle. This recipe has been meticulously crafted to provide a delicious, satisfying experience without compromising your wellness goals. With a focus on lower SmartPoints, these brownies are perfect for anyone looking to indulge in a sweet treat while maintaining a balanced diet.

Ingredients

  • Whole Wheat Flour: 1 cup (120 grams)
  • Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: 1/2 cup (40 grams)
  • Granulated Sugar: 1/2 cup (100 grams)
  • Light Brown Sugar: 1/4 cup (50 grams)
  • Egg Whites: 2 large
  • Unsweetened Applesauce: 1/2 cup (120 milliliters)
  • Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon (5 grams)
  • Salt: 1/4 teaspoon (1.5 grams)
  • Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon (5 milliliters)
  • Water: 1/4 cup (60 milliliters)
  • Optional Add-ins: 1/4 cup (30 grams) of chopped nuts or dark chocolate chips for added flavor and texture

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your brownies bake evenly and achieve the perfect texture.
  2. Prepare the Baking Pan: Line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper or lightly coat it with non-stick cooking spray. This step prevents the brownies from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
  3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well incorporated.
  4. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg whites, unsweetened applesauce, vanilla extract, and water. Make sure these ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to prevent the brownies from becoming dense.
  6. Add Optional Ingredients: If you are using nuts or chocolate chips, fold them into the batter at this stage. This adds texture and richness to your brownies.
  7. Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure uniform baking.
  8. Bake the Brownies: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the brownies. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the brownies are ready.
  9. Cool Before Cutting: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. This helps them set properly and makes for cleaner cuts.
  10. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooled, cut the brownies into 16 squares. Serve them as a satisfying treat that complements your WW meal plan.

Nutritional Information

  • Serving Size: 1 brownie (approx. 1.5 inches square)
  • Calories: 90
  • Total Fat: 2.5 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 0.5 grams
  • Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
  • Sodium: 50 milligrams
  • Total Carbohydrates: 16 grams
  • Dietary Fiber: 2 grams
  • Sugars: 8 grams
  • Protein: 2 grams

WW SmartPoints

  • Per Serving: 3 SmartPoints (based on the WW Freestyle and myWW Blue plans)

Additional Tips

  • Flour Substitutes: For a gluten-free option, you can substitute the whole wheat flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend. Adjust baking time if necessary.
  • Sweetener Alternatives: For a lower sugar version, consider using a sugar substitute like Stevia or Erythritol. Ensure that the substitute measures equivalently to sugar.
  • Flavor Variations: Experiment with adding different flavorings, such as a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of almond extract, to customize your brownies to your taste.
  • Storage: Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze them for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

The WW Lunch Lady Brownie offers a guilt-free indulgence that aligns with your Weight Watchers journey. By following this detailed recipe, you can create a treat that is both delicious and supportive of your health goals. With careful attention to ingredients and portion control, you can enjoy this classic dessert in a way that complements your lifestyle. Whether as an afternoon snack or a post-dinner treat, these brownies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping you on track with your wellness plan.