Whether you prefer it smooth, chunky or natural, peanut butter is the perfect addition to any snack. It goes with practically everything: crackers, pretzels, celery, carrots, apples, bananas, chocolate, and much more. It’s also super yummy in this French toast recipe.  It’s so simple to make, with ingredients you probably have on hand.  You’ll surely have time to make it, even on busy mornings.  I’ve made it skinny by using multi-grain bread, natural unsalted peanut butter, reduced-sugar preserves and egg whites. A real satisfying breakfast with 170 calories, 7.5 grams of fat and 5 Weight Watchers POINTS PLUS.  Serve with some fresh berries or sliced fruit.

Prep Time: 8 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients

4 slices whole-wheat or multi-grain bread, I used Milton’s Multi-Grain bread, see shopping tip

4 tablespoons natural unsalted chunky or smooth peanut butter, see shopping tip

2 tablespoons reduced-sugar strawberry preserves or your favorite, see shopping tip

4 egg whites

1 tablespoon fat-free milk

½ teaspoon vanilla

4 teaspoons reduced-fat butter or Smart Balance Light

2 teaspoons powdered sugar

Instructions

1. Spread 1 tablespoon peanut butter on 2 slices of bread.  Spread 1 tablespoon preserves on each remaining 2 slices.  Put sandwiches together.

2. In a 9-inch baking dish, whisk egg whites, milk and vanilla.  Place the 2 sandwiches in the dish and let soak on each side.

3. Melt reduced-fat butter in a large nonstick pan over medium heat.  Cook sandwiches until golden brown, about 2 -3 minutes per side.  Cut each sandwich in four sticks.  Sprinkle the top of each with powdered sugar and serve immediately.

Makes 4 servings (2 sticks per serving)

Food Fact
The origin of the peanut butter and jelly sandwich isn’t quite clear.  What is known is that during World War II the sandwich was eaten by US soldiers.  One theory of the history began when US soldiers combined the two so they could eat quickly.  Another theory is that peanut butter was used because other popular foods were hard to find during the 1940s.  Because meat and other food staples were scarce or costly, people begin trying other meals.  The result were peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.

Healthy Benefit
Peanut butter is an excellent source of protein and healthy fats, and can help reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. For the healthiest choice, look for brands that have no oil or sugar added.

Shopping Tips
Most supermarkets including Trader Joe’s sell Milton’s Multi-Grain bread.
You’ll also find reduced-sugar preserves in most supermarkets and Trader Joe’s.

Weight Watchers (old points) 4
Weight Watchers POINTS PLUS 5