The Best Cookie Bars You Can Bake at Home

Craving something sweet and indulgent while sticking to your health goals? These Cookie Bars are the perfect solution. Packed with all the deliciousness of a classic cookie but lightened up to fit into your WW points budget, this recipe is ideal for satisfying your sweet tooth guilt-free.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour (or substitute with almond flour for a gluten-free option)
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (or use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit for fewer points)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (use mini chips for better distribution)
• Optional: 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans work great)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or spray it with a non-stick cooking spray for easy removal of the cookie bars.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Prepare the Wet Ingredients

1. In a separate large bowl, combine the melted butter, applesauce, and brown sugar. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the mixture, and whisk until well blended.

Combine the Ingredients

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture.
2. Gently fold in the chocolate chips and nuts (if using).

Bake the Cookie Bars

1. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
2. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Slice

1. Allow the cookie bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
2. Remove them from the pan using the parchment paper and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing into 12 equal bars.

Nutritional Information

(Per Serving: 1 Cookie Bar)

• Calories: ~120
• Protein: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• WW Points: ~3 points (based on ingredients used)

Why You’ll Love These Cookie Bars

1. Low Points, Big Flavor: These cookie bars are a satisfying treat that fits within your Weight Watchers plan.
2. Customizable: Add dried fruits, substitute chocolate chips with dark chocolate, or try a drizzle of peanut butter for a fun twist.
3. Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy days.
4. Portion-Controlled: Cutting the bars into 12 servings ensures you can indulge without going overboard.

Tips for Success

• Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale to measure ingredients like flour and butter to keep the recipe precise and the points accurate.
• Don’t Overbake: To keep the cookie bars soft and chewy, avoid overbaking. Remove them from the oven as soon as the edges turn golden brown.
• Storage: Store the cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer storage.

Serving Suggestions

• With Coffee or Tea: Enjoy a cookie bar as a mid-afternoon treat with your favorite low-calorie beverage.
• As a Dessert: Pair with a dollop of light whipped cream or a small scoop of low-fat vanilla ice cream.
• For Gatherings: These cookie bars are a hit at potlucks and parties. Double the recipe for larger crowds!

These Cookie Bars are proof that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor to maintain a healthy lifestyle. With their soft, chewy texture and perfectly sweet taste, they’re sure to become a go-to treat in your kitchen. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or savoring them solo, these cookie bars are a delightful way to indulge while staying on track. Enjoy!