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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure uniform baking.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.