Introduction: Delve into the world of guilt-free indulgence with these Weight Watchers Skinny Coconut Cheesecake Bars. This delectable dessert is designed for those seeking a balance between satisfying their sweet tooth and adhering to their weight management goals. With a focus on lighter ingredients and smart choices, these cheesecake bars promise a delightful culinary experience without compromising on the principles of Weight Watchers.
Ingredients: The success of these Skinny Coconut Cheesecake Bars lies in the careful selection of ingredients, ensuring a harmonious blend of flavors while keeping the points in check. Key components include:
- Light Cream Cheese:
- Utilizing light cream cheese preserves the creamy texture of the cheesecake while reducing the overall fat content.
- Greek Yogurt:
- Greek yogurt adds a tangy richness to the cheesecake, contributing both flavor and a boost of protein.
- Egg Whites:
- Egg whites provide structure to the cheesecake, keeping it light and fluffy without the added fat of whole eggs.
- Coconut Extract:
- Infusing coconut extract imparts a tropical essence to the bars, allowing you to savor the flavor without the excess calories of coconut cream or milk.
- Whole Wheat Graham Cracker Crust:
- Opting for a whole wheat graham cracker crust adds a wholesome touch to the dessert, increasing fiber while maintaining a satisfying crunch.
Baking Instructions: Master the art of creating these Skinny Coconut Cheesecake Bars with precision and ease:
- Prepare the Crust:
- Begin by crafting the whole wheat graham cracker crust, pressing it firmly into the baking pan to form a sturdy base for the cheesecake.
- Mix the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, blend light cream cheese, Greek yogurt, egg whites, and coconut extract until smooth and well combined. This ensures a decadent yet light texture.
- Layering and Baking:
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust, spreading it evenly. The bars are then baked to perfection, allowing the flavors to meld and the texture to set.
- Cooling and Chilling:
- Allow the Skinny Coconut Cheesecake Bars to cool at room temperature before transferring them to the refrigerator. Chilling ensures that the bars firm up and develop the ideal consistency.
- Optional Toppings:
- Enhance the presentation and flavor by adding optional toppings such as shredded coconut, a drizzle of dark chocolate, or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes.
Serving and Enjoyment: Indulge in the moment of savoring these Skinny Coconut Cheesecake Bars with an understanding that each delightful bite aligns with your Weight Watchers journey. Share these guilt-free treats with friends and family, showcasing that decadence and health-conscious choices can coexist in a single dessert. Whether enjoyed as a delightful ending to a meal or as a satisfying snack, these cheesecake bars prove that wholesome ingredients can still deliver on the promise of a sweet escape.
Conclusion: In conclusion, the Weight Watchers Skinny Coconut Cheesecake Bars are a testament to the art of crafting desserts that prioritize both flavor and nutritional mindfulness. Embrace the journey of creating and savoring these bars, reveling in the delightful fusion of coconut-infused decadence and weight-conscious choices. It’s a celebration of the sweet side of life without compromising on your commitment to wellness.
prep time 20 MINUTES
cook time 20 MINUTES
total time 40 MINUTES
NUTRITION INFORMATION:
Amount Per Serving:CALORIES: 118TOTAL FAT: 7gCARBOHYDRATES: 9gSUGAR: 6gPROTEIN: 4g
INGREDIENTS
- 3/4 cup graham crackers
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 8 ounces reduced fat cream cheese (or Neufchâtel cheese), softened
- 3/4 cup 0% Greek yogurt (plain)
- 2 large egg whites
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 teaspooons coconut extract
- 1/3 cup sliced almonds
- 1/3 cup shredded or flaked unsweetened coconut
- INSTRUCTIONS
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line an 8×8 baking dish with foil with some overhang on the side.
- In a bowl, stir together the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well-combined. Press the crumbs into the lined baking dish. Bake for 8-9 minutes. Set aside to make filling.
- Beat the softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl for about 1 minute. Beat in the yogurt, sugar, egg whites, and the flour for about 3 minutes. Stir in the vanilla and coconut extracts. Pour the filling into the baking dish over the crust.
- Bake the bars for 20 minutes. Cover the pan with foil and bake for another 5 minutes.
- While the bars are baking, add the sliced almonds and shredded coconut to a pan over medium low heat. Toast the mixture until lightly golden, about 3-4 minutes, stirring often.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Sprinkle the almond and coconut mixture on top. Let chill for another 30 minutes and then store in the fridge to chill for at least 4 hours before cutting.