Healthy Peanut Butter Crunch Bars

Frequently, the word "healthy" is a misnomer.  I come across many supposedly "healthy" recipes that have really no redeeming qualities.  Sure, reducing fat and calories is a good thing, but on sugar and flour filled confections I would simply call that "less bad".
When I came across this recipe, I loved that it not only used very little oil and sugar as well as only egg white, but it also contains whole wheat flour, wheat germ and chia seeds (If you don't know chia seeds, you must be introduced!).  This makes them high in fiber and rich in omega-3 fatty acids.  I count that as healthy, no quotes required.

Healthy Peanut Butter Crunch Bars

 

 

 

Ingredients:

1/2 c. all-purpose flour

1/2 c. whole wheat or white whole wheat flour

1/4 c. rolled oats

1 Tbsp. wheat germ

2 tsp. chia seeds, optional

1/2 tsp. kosher salt

1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon

1/3 c. creamy natural peanut butter

1/3 c. packed light brown sugar

3 Tbsp. vegetable oil

1 large egg white

1 oz. bittersweet chocolate, melted (about 2 small squares)

 

Directions:

Line a 9"x13" baking dish with foil and spray lightly with non-stick spray.

Stir together flours, oats, germ, chia seeds, salt and cinnamon in a small bowl.

Combine peanut butter, sugar, oil and egg white in a medium bowl and beat on medium speed using a hand mixer until creamy, about 2 minutes.

Add dry ingredients to peanut butter mixture and beat on low until combined.  Mixture will be like damp sand.

Press into prepared pan, flattening with palms.

Bake at 350 degrees 20-25 minutes until golden.  Cool completely.

Drizzle with melted chocolate and allow chocolate to harden.

Break into 18 pieces.  Yes I mean break.  It does not cut well.  I scored it with a knife and then tried to break along the lines.

 

 

***These are 2 Weight Watcher Points Plus per square***

 

***I did not invent these.  See the original recipe here.***

***Like this recipe?  Check out my Double Chocolate Chip version here.***