Peanut Butter Cookie Bars: A Weight Watchers-Friendly Recipe
Recipe Overview:
Peanut Butter Cookie Bars combine the creamy richness of peanut butter with the crunch of cookies, creating a sweet treat that’s as satisfying as it is indulgent. This Weight Watchers recipe is designed to provide a lighter alternative to traditional peanut butter bars, keeping the points low without compromising on flavor. Perfect for a quick snack, dessert, or treat for the family, these bars will surely become a favorite.

Ingredients:
1 cup peanut butter (preferably natural, unsweetened)
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup (for a natural sweetener alternative)
1/2 cup rolled oats (for a slightly chewy texture)
1/2 cup whole wheat flour (or all-purpose flour for a softer texture)
1/2 cup light brown sugar (or coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option)
1 large egg (for binding)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (adds flavor depth)
1/2 teaspoon baking powder (helps with texture)
1/4 teaspoon salt (balances the sweetness)
1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional, for added sweetness and texture)
Weight Watchers Points (per serving):
SmartPoints: 3 points per bar (based on a 12-bar yield)
Freestyle SmartPoints: 3 points per bar
PointsPlus: 4 points per bar (based on a 12-bar yield)
Nutritional Information (per bar):

Calories: 160 kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 12g
Cholesterol: 25mg
Sodium: 95mg
Calcium: 30mg
Iron: 1mg
Preparation Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8-inch square baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, allowing extra paper on the sides to easily lift the bars out once baked. Alternatively, you can lightly grease the pan with cooking spray.
Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the natural peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Use a hand mixer or whisk to blend these ingredients until they are smooth and well combined.
Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, baking powder, salt, and brown sugar. Make sure the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until the batter comes together. The consistency will be somewhat thick and slightly sticky. At this point, you can fold in the mini chocolate chips if you’re adding them for extra sweetness and texture.
Bake the Bars:
Transfer the cookie dough into the prepared pan, pressing it into an even layer with a spatula. Bake the bars in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Slice:
Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, use the edges of the parchment paper to lift the bars out of the pan and onto a cutting board. Slice into 12 equal bars.
Serve and Store:
Serve the bars immediately or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the bars for up to 3 months by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
Helpful Tips for Success:
Peanut Butter Choices:
For the best results, choose a natural, unsweetened peanut butter that doesn’t have added sugars or oils. This will help keep the recipe lower in both sugar and fat. If you prefer a sweeter taste, consider using a peanut butter that contains added honey or vanilla.
Flavor Variations:
Feel free to get creative by adding different mix-ins like dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped nuts. To make the bars more decadent, you can drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top once they have cooled.
Flour Substitutes:
You can easily swap the whole wheat flour with almond flour for a gluten-free version. If you’re watching your carbohydrate intake, almond flour will lower the carb count significantly.
For a Vegan Version:
If you’re following a vegan lifestyle, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water). Also, replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
Controlling Sweetness:
Adjust the sweetness by modifying the amount of honey or sugar in the recipe. If you prefer a less sweet bar, reduce the sweetener by a tablespoon or two. You can also use a sugar substitute, like stevia or monk fruit sweetener, to reduce the calorie count.
Nutritional Breakdown and Health Benefits:
Peanut Butter:
Peanut butter is a good source of protein and healthy fats. While it does contain a fair amount of calories, the fats in peanut butter are primarily monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy and can help with satiety. However, it’s important to use peanut butter in moderation due to its calorie density.
Oats:
Oats provide a great source of dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestion and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels. Oats are also rich in antioxidants and can lower the risk of heart disease by reducing bad cholesterol levels.
Whole Wheat Flour:
Whole wheat flour offers more fiber and nutrients compared to refined flour. It’s also lower on the glycemic index, making it a better option for those managing blood sugar levels.
Honey or Maple Syrup:
Both honey and maple syrup are natural sweeteners and offer antioxidants that can help fight inflammation. While they are still sugars, they are considered healthier alternatives to refined sugar, as they provide additional nutrients.
Mini Chocolate Chips (Optional):
If you decide to include chocolate chips, they add a touch of indulgence while offering antioxidants, especially if you opt for dark chocolate. Keep in mind that chocolate will increase the calorie count, so use them sparingly to maintain the recipe’s balance.


Why This Recipe Works for Weight Watchers:
Lower in Sugar:
Compared to traditional peanut butter cookie bars, this recipe uses less sugar and natural sweeteners. This helps reduce the calorie count while still satisfying your sweet tooth.
Balanced Macros:
The combination of protein from peanut butter and oats, healthy fats, and fiber from whole wheat flour makes these bars a well-balanced treat. The fiber and protein help keep you full longer, making it easier to stick to your Weight Watchers goals.
Portion Control:
This recipe yields 12 bars, allowing you to enjoy a treat without overindulging. Each bar is just 3 SmartPoints, making it a great option for anyone following the Weight Watchers program.
Customizable:
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can adjust the ingredients to suit your dietary preferences, whether you need a lower-carb, gluten-free, or vegan option. This ensures that everyone can enjoy a guilt-free treat.
Conclusion:
Peanut Butter Cookie Bars are a delightful treat that fits seamlessly into a Weight Watchers lifestyle. Not only are they low in points, but they are also rich in protein and fiber, helping you stay satisfied without the guilt. With easy-to-find ingredients, simple preparation, and the ability to customize the recipe, these bars are perfect for anyone looking to indulge in a healthier version of their favorite snack.

By preparing these bars in advance, you can have a convenient snack ready to go whenever you need a pick-me-up. Whether you’re meal prepping, planning a party, or simply craving a sweet treat, these peanut butter cookie bars are sure to satisfy your taste buds and fit into your wellness routine. Try them out today and experience the balance of nutrition and flavor in every bite!