Weight Watchers Strawberry Crunch Cookies Recipe

Introduction:

Welcome to a delightful and health-conscious twist on a classic treat! These Weight Watchers Strawberry Crunch Cookies offer a satisfying crunch and a burst of strawberry flavor while keeping your SmartPoints low. Perfect for a sweet snack or a light dessert, these cookies are designed to align with your Weight Watchers goals without compromising on taste. With a combination of wholesome ingredients and a touch of creativity, these cookies are a fantastic way to enjoy a guilt-free indulgence.

Ingredients:

For the Cookies:

  • 1 cup whole wheat flour
  • 1/2 cup almond flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (or a sugar substitute like Stevia, adjusted to taste)
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed into small pieces
  • 1/4 cup rolled oats (optional, for added texture)

For the Crunch Topping:

  • 1/4 cup crushed freeze-dried strawberries
  • 1/4 cup granola (choose a low-sugar variety)

Instructions:

  1. Preparation:
    • Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and to facilitate easy cleanup.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
    • In a medium bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, almond flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and provides a uniform texture to the cookies.
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar (or sugar substitute), unsweetened applesauce, melted coconut oil, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
  4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
    • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can affect the texture of the cookies.
  5. Add Strawberries and Oats:
    • Fold in the crushed freeze-dried strawberries and rolled oats (if using) into the dough. The freeze-dried strawberries will provide bursts of strawberry flavor and a pleasing crunch.
  6. Shape the Cookies:
    • Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to drop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each cookie slightly with the back of the spoon or your fingers to ensure even baking.
  7. Prepare the Crunch Topping:
    • In a small bowl, combine the crushed freeze-dried strawberries and granola. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of each cookie to add a crunchy, flavorful topping.
  8. Bake the Cookies:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The cookies should be set but still soft in the center. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. Cooling and Storing:
    • Once cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a resealable plastic bag or airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie, based on 12 cookies):

  • Calories: 90
  • Total Fat: 4g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg
  • Sodium: 70mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 6g
  • Protein: 2g

Weight Watchers SmartPoints:

  • SmartPoints: 4 per cookie (based on Blue Plan)

Additional Tips:

  • Sugar Substitutes: To further reduce SmartPoints, consider using a sugar substitute like Stevia or Erythritol. Adjust the quantity according to taste, keeping in mind that some substitutes are sweeter than granulated sugar.
  • Freeze-Dried Strawberries: Using freeze-dried strawberries provides intense flavor and a crunchy texture without adding excess moisture to the dough. If fresh strawberries are used, reduce the quantity of liquid in the recipe.
  • Coconut Oil: The use of coconut oil adds a subtle flavor and helps achieve a chewy texture. If preferred, you can substitute with other vegetable oils or butters, keeping in mind that this may affect the SmartPoints.
  • Almond Flour: Almond flour adds a nutty flavor and extra moisture. If you prefer, you can substitute it with additional whole wheat flour, but this may slightly change the texture and flavor of the cookies.
  • Rolling Oats: Adding rolled oats provides additional texture and fiber. For a gluten-free version, ensure the oats are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion:

These Weight Watchers Strawberry Crunch Cookies offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while keeping your SmartPoints low. With a combination of whole wheat flour, almond flour, and freeze-dried strawberries, these cookies strike a balance between indulgence and healthiness. By incorporating creative substitutions and mindful ingredient choices, this recipe allows you to enjoy a beloved treat in a way that aligns with your dietary goals. Enjoy these cookies as a smart snack or a light dessert, knowing that you’re making a delicious choice that fits into your healthy eating plan.