Slightly Skinny Strawberry Blondie Bars
Try this award-winning light and slightly skinny Strawberry Blondie bar made with bananas, egg whites, fresh strawberries, and low-fat pudding, if you are looking for a lighter and healthier dessert. Makes a great Mother's Day dessert!
Try this award-winning light and slightly skinny Strawberry Blondie bar made with bananas, egg whites, fresh strawberries, and low-fat pudding, if you are looking for a lighter and healthier dessert. Makes a great Mother's Day dessert!
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 2 tsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups 1% milk
- â½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2/3 cup mashed bananas (about 2 small bananas)
- 4 egg whites ((see notes below for using up egg yolk
- 1 cup chopped strawberries (see directions cooked but not pureed)
- 1 - 8 oz pkg. light cream cheese
- â¼ cup icing sugar
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1/3 cup toffee bits (i use skor bits)
- 1 -32 g pkg. fat free white chocolate instant pud
- 3 tbsp powdered whipped dessert mix (i use dream whip)
- 2 cup fresh chopped â strawberries (1/2 of this will be
- 4 tbsp white granulated sugar
- 2 tsp kirsch
- Carbohydrate 38.6510437651259 g
- Cholesterol 0.272222221669927 mg
- Fat 0.26281222235821 g
- Fiber 0.56419445512189 g
- Protein 2.31013027994741 g
- Saturated Fat 0.0695177777429936 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (89g)
- Sodium 276.992736433747 mg
- Sugar 38.086849310004 g
- Trans Fat 0.0702331667453995 g
- Calories 168 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 9-by-13-inch cake pan with non-stick cooking spray.
- Whisk flour and baking powder in a medium bowl.
- In a large mixing bowl, add butter, brown sugar, and mashed banana and mix on medium-high until pale and fluffy.
- Mix in eggs and vanilla.
- Reduce speed to low. Add flour mixture; mix until just combined.
- Spread batter into prepared dish; smooth top.
- Bake until a cake tester inserted into center comes out with only a few moist crumbs attached, approximately 20 minutes.
- Let cool in dish 15 minutes.
- Cook strawberries with sugar, kirsch, and lemon juice on medium-high for 3 minutes.
- Remove ½ of the cooked strawberry mixture and drain through a sieve. Put aside the strawberries to cool for 10 minutes (this will be part of your cream cheese layer) and discard the liquid.
- Continue cooking the remainder of strawberries on low for an additional 3 minutes.
- Pour strawberries and their liquid into a food processor and puree for 30-45 seconds or until smooth. Set aside for topping.
- Mix icing sugar, cream cheese, butter, and 1 tsp. of vanilla together and once cool, beat in strawberries that have been drained. Fold in toffee bits.
- Beat white chocolate pudding mix and milk as per box directions. Add in powdered whipped dessert mix and beat for another minute. Place in the fridge to cool and set for 5 minutes.
- When the blondie bottom has cooled, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the top.
- Next, spread the pudding mixture over the cream cheese mixture.
- Then, using a butter knife, evenly swirl in the strawberry compote.
- Serve (best to refrigerate for 30 minutes if time permits) and enjoy!
Slightly Skinny Strawberry Blondie Bars: A Healthier Indulgence
As a busy professional woman, juggling work deadlines and personal commitments, finding time for myself, let alone baking elaborate desserts, can feel like a Herculean task. But let's be honest, even the most driven individual needs a moment of sweet escape, a reward for a job well done, or a pick-me-up to face the next challenge. This is where my slightly skinny strawberry blondie bars come in. They're the perfect compromise – a delicious, healthier twist on a classic treat that satisfies my sweet tooth without derailing my healthy lifestyle.
These blondies are not just a dessert; they're a celebration of balance. The subtle sweetness of the bananas and strawberries complements the richness of the blondie base, creating a harmonious flavour profile that is both comforting and sophisticated. The use of egg whites instead of whole eggs contributes to a lighter texture, while the low-fat pudding provides a creamy, decadent layer without adding excessive calories. This recipe doesn't compromise on taste; it enhances it. It's the perfect indulgence for those who value both health and flavor.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. It can be adapted to fit various dietary needs and preferences. Feel free to experiment with different types of berries, nuts, or even chocolate chips. The possibilities are endless! The recipe is also relatively easy to follow, even for those with limited baking experience. I've found that the most challenging part is waiting for the blondies to cool before devouring them – a testament to their irresistible appeal.
What sets these blondies apart, however, is more than just their deliciousness and healthy profile; it’s the feeling of accomplishment and self-care that accompanies each bite. Baking, for me, is a form of meditation, a way to disconnect from the stresses of the day and connect with myself. The act of measuring ingredients, mixing batters, and watching the blondies transform in the oven provides a sense of calm and satisfaction. And sharing them with loved ones only amplifies this joy.
The experience of creating these blondies transcends the simple act of baking. It’s a process of self-expression, a testament to the ability to create something beautiful and delicious, even amidst a busy schedule. And the result? Not just delectable blondies, but a sense of fulfillment and contentment that’s far more rewarding than any store-bought dessert could ever be.
So, if you're looking for a healthy and delicious treat that's both satisfying and easy to make, look no further. Give these slightly skinny strawberry blondies a try. They’re the perfect way to treat yourself without sacrificing your health goals – a delicious balance that makes life a little bit sweeter.
Beyond the Recipe: A Reflection on Balance
These blondies represent more than just a recipe; they're a metaphor for the delicate balance I strive for in my life. The blend of healthy ingredients reflects my commitment to well-being, while the undeniable deliciousness highlights the importance of enjoyment and self-care. It's about finding the sweet spot between ambition and relaxation, health and indulgence, work and personal time – a constant quest for harmony that makes life richer and more fulfilling.
In our fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in the pursuit of success and forget about the simple pleasures. But taking the time to bake, to savor the aroma of vanilla and strawberries, to share the joy of a homemade treat, reminds me of what truly matters. It's a reminder to slow down, to appreciate the little things, and to embrace the beauty of balance in all aspects of life. These blondies are a symbol of that balance – a delicious testament to the power of mindful living.
I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the joy of creating something healthy, delicious, and deeply satisfying. And as you enjoy each bite, may it remind you of the importance of finding your own perfect balance in life.
