Weight Watchers-Friendly Salted Caramel Butter Bars
Ingredients:

For the Crust and Topping:

  • 1 cup light butter (such as Land O’Lakes Light Butter)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar substitute (such as Swerve)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar substitute (such as Swerve Confectioners)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (you can substitute with whole wheat flour for added fiber, which might slightly lower points)

For the Filling:

  • 1 bag (14 oz) sugar-free caramel candies (such as Werther’s Sugar-Free)
  • 1/4 cup fat-free half-and-half (instead of heavy cream)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon sea salt (for sprinkling)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or spray it with non-stick cooking spray.
  2. Prepare the Crust and Topping:
    • In a large bowl, cream together the light butter, granulated sugar substitute, and powdered sugar substitute until light and fluffy.
    • Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
    • Gradually add the flour to the butter mixture, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
    • Press half of the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Reserve the other half of the dough for the topping.
    • Bake the crust for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool.
  3. Prepare the Caramel Filling:
    • While the crust is cooling, place the sugar-free caramel candies and fat-free half-and-half in a microwave-safe bowl.
    • Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until the caramels are melted and the mixture is smooth.
    • Stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. Assemble the Bars:
    • Pour the caramel mixture evenly over the cooled crust. Sprinkle with sea salt.
    • Crumble the reserved dough over the caramel layer.
  5. Bake:
    • Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden brown.
    • Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.

Tips:

  • Portion Control: Cut the bars into smaller pieces to help manage portion size and points per serving.
  • Caramel Substitutes: If you can’t find sugar-free caramel candies, you can make your own caramel sauce using sugar substitutes or use a low-calorie caramel sauce.
  • Add Fiber: Using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour can add fiber and potentially lower points.

Benefits:

  • Lower Points: By using light butter, sugar substitutes, and sugar-free caramel candies, this recipe significantly reduces the points compared to the original.
  • Rich in Flavor: Despite the substitutions, the bars maintain a rich and indulgent taste, making them a satisfying treat.
  • Portion-Friendly: With smaller portion sizes, you can enjoy this dessert without overindulging.

Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 24 servings):

  • Calories: ~110 kcal
  • Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Points: ~3-4 per bar (depending on exact ingredients and portion size)

This Weight Watchers-friendly version of Salted Caramel Butter Bars allows you to enjoy a sweet, indulgent treat while keeping your points in check.