Everyday Mom

At the request of some very determined girlfriends who are trying to get in shape for summer, I recently went on the hunt for a yummy but calorie friendly dessert.  I love to throw a good party and serve lots of delicious food.  This past weekend was my turn to host our monthly game night with friends.  After contemplating the menu, I decided that anything on the grill would be perfect for our mid May festivities.  It would also allow for lighter sides like salads, fresh veggies, and fruit.  I added some grilled corn on the cob to round out the meal, and was quite proud of myself for putting together a delicious and healthy spread that everyone could feel good about. 

However, what was I to do about dessert?  I had already planned to serve my best friend’s favorite, smores.  While I’m sure the over the top version with brownie on bottom, crushed graham crackers and marshmallow fluff on top all covered in melted chocolate would have been easily devoured, the guilt would have done us all in!  So, I (against all that was in me, to be honest) went looking for something tasty but without all of the guilt.  I quickly went to my subscription of Taste of Home’s Healthy Cooking.  With easy to prepare recipes that don’t derail the diet, I knew I’d find something acceptable.  What I decided on, was a big hit!  So much so, I thought I’d share it with all of you.

Blueberry Walnut Bars

2/3 ground walnuts

1/2 cup reduced fat graham cracker crumbs

2 T. + 1/3 cup of Splenda or other sugar substitute

1/3 old fashioned oats

3 T. reduced fat butter, melted

1 pkg. (8 oz.) reduced fat or fat free cream cheese

1 T. orange juice

1/2 tsp. vanilla

1/2 cup Cool Whip Light or Cool Whip Free

2 T. blueberry preserves

1 1/2 cups fresh blueberries

Combine the walnuts, cracker crumbs, 2T. of sweetener, oats, and butter.  Press onto bottom of 8×8 square baking dish coated with cooking spray.  Bake at 350 degrees for 9-11 minutes or until lightly browned.  Cool on wire rack.

In a large bowl, beat cream cheese, remaining sweetener, orange juice, and vanilla until smooth.  Fold in whipped topping.  Spread over crust.

In a microwave-safe bowl, heat preserves on high for 15-20 seconds until warmed.  Gently stir in fresh berries and spoon over filling.  Refrigerate until ready to serve.

I didn’t know if my guests would like walnuts, so I left them out and added 2/3 cup of additional graham cracker crumbs.  I also doubled the blueberry topping ingredients to add volume without adding fat calories.  The dessert was beautiful to look at and very pleasing to the pallette.  With only 150 calories per serving that included 3 grams of protein, it is certainly something I would make again.  I may even try it with strawberry or raspberry topping next time.

If you are watching your waistline, summer is the perfect season for you!  Try eating fresh and using your grill to add delicious flavor without having to have fatty sauces, heavy coatings, or added calories.  And when you just have to have a dessert try these Blueberry Walnut Bars or any of the recipes in Taste of Home’s Healthy Cooking!  Get your subscription today at Magazines.com.  Happy Healthy Eating!!