Crunchy Peanut Butter Thins

*These crunchy little cookies are a satisfying alternative to regular peanut butter cookies. Chia seeds are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids - look for them in specialty health food stores if you don't see them in the regular grocery store. I made these for my friend once who really loves peanut butter cookies. She was on a diet though at the time so I wanted to give her something she'd enjoy but not feel guilty about eating. At first she was hesitant to take a bite but after I assured her that they were healthy and she took that first bite, she was instantly hooked. After that I make sure to make them for her every birthday.

 

Total Time: 40 min
Prep 10 min
Cook 30 min

Yield: 18 pieces

Level: Easy

 

Ingredients

Nonstick baking spray
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup whole wheat or white whole wheat flour
1/4 cup rolled oats
1 tablespoon wheat germ
2 teaspoons chia seeds, optional
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/3 cup creamy natural peanut butter
1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large egg white
1 ounce bittersweet chocolate, melted (about 2 small squares)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line a 9-by-13-inch baking dish with aluminum foil with a 1-inch overhang on all sides. Spray lightly with baking spray.

Combine both flours, oats, wheat germ, chia seeds if using, salt and cinnamon in a medium bowl. Set aside.

Combine the peanut butter, brown sugar, vegetable oil and egg white in another medium bowl. Beat with a hand mixer until creamy, about 2 minutes. Add the dry ingredients and beat on low until a wet and sandy mixture that holds together when squeezed. Turn the dough out into the prepared pan and press into an even layer. Bake until golden, 25 to 30 minutes. Let cool completely. Drizzle with the chocolate. Let the chocolate harden and break into eighteen 2-inch even pieces.

Per serving: Calories: 106; Total Fat: 5.5 grams; Saturated Fat: 1 gram; Protein: 3 grams; Total carbohydrates: 12 grams; Sugar: 5 grams; Fiber: 1 gram; Cholesterol: 0 milligrams; Sodium: 76 milligrams