Ready to whip up a tasty treat that’ll have your pup wagging its tail with joy?
Let’s dive into making this scrumptious peanut butter and applesauce dog treat that is not only super easy to prepare but also packed with healthy goodies.
Plus, they’re a fantastic way to sneak in some extra nutrients into your dog’s diet. Ready to get started?
Let’s treat our furry best friends to something special today!
Peanut Butter and Applesauce Dog Treat Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole wheat flour (or substitute with oat flour for a grain-free option)
- 1/2 cup smooth natural peanut butter (ensure it’s xylitol-free)
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 egg (optional, helps to bind the ingredients)
Equipment:
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutter (choose fun shapes like bones, hearts, or paw prints)
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Directions:
- Preheat Your Oven:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour and baking powder.
- Add Wet Ingredients:
- Add the peanut butter, applesauce, and egg to the dry ingredients. Stir until all components are thoroughly mixed and the dough is consistent.
- Roll Out the Dough:
- Place the dough on a lightly floured surface or parchment paper. Use a rolling pin to roll it out to about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Cut Out Treats:
- Use your cookie cutter to cut out shapes from the dough. Gather the scraps, reroll, and continue cutting until all the dough is used.
- Bake the Treats:
- Arrange the cutouts on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges start to brown slightly.
- Cooling:
- Allow the treats to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Storage:
- Store the cooled treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for up to three weeks.
What Type of Peanut Butter Should You Use?
When choosing peanut butter for homemade dog treats, select an unsweetened and unsalted variety that does not contain xylitol, a sweetener that is toxic to dogs. Natural peanut butter is preferred, as it does not contain harmful additives and preservatives.
Feeding Guidelines
Like any treat, these should be given to your dog in moderation, accounting for no more than 10% of their daily caloric intake. Monitor your pet to ensure they handle the new treats well, especially if they have a sensitive stomach.
Health Benefits
Peanut butter provides a good source of protein and healthy fats that promote a shiny coat and healthy skin, while applesauce adds a touch of sweetness without the need for added sugars. It’s also a great source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion.