Every dog parent knows that look – those pleading puppy eyes watching your every move in the kitchen. Well, today’s your pup’s lucky day!
After watching my own Cavalier drool over my banana bread for years, I finally created something just for him: a dog-friendly peanut butter banana cake that’s totally safe for our four-legged friends.
It’s the perfect way to celebrate your furry family member’s birthday, adoption day, or let’s be honest – any day that ends in ‘y’.
After all, who says humans should have all the fun with cake?
Homemade Peanut Butter Dog Cake Recipe
Equipment Needed:
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula or mixing spoon
- 6-inch round cake pan (or muffin tin for mini cakes)
- Non-stick spray or parchment paper
Ingredients:
- 1 cup whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds fiber and is more nutrient-dense than white flour.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: This helps the cake rise, giving it a light and fluffy texture.
- 1 ripe banana, mashed: Bananas add natural sweetness, fiber, and potassium.
- ⅓ cup dog-friendly peanut butter: Make sure it’s xylitol-free, as xylitol is toxic to dogs.
- 1 egg: Eggs provide protein and act as a binder.
- ¼ cup water: Adds moisture to the cake.
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 tablespoon honey: Adds a touch of natural sweetness (optional).
- 1 tablespoon applesauce: Keeps the cake moist and adds flavor.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: For a cozy aroma and flavor (optional, in small amounts).
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 6-inch cake pan with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour and baking powder. Stir well to evenly distribute the baking powder throughout the flour.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mash the ripe banana with a fork until smooth. Add the peanut butter, egg, and water, and mix until well combined. If you’re using any optional add-ins like honey, applesauce, or cinnamon, mix them in now.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently stir with a spatula until everything is combined. The batter should be thick but pourable. If it seems too thick, add a little more water, a tablespoon at a time.
5. Pour into Pan and Smooth: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Smooth the top to ensure an even bake.
6. Bake the Cake: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If you’re making mini cakes in a muffin tin, start checking for doneness at 15 minutes.
7. Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Make sure it’s fully cool before adding any toppings or serving to your dog.
Topping Ideas:
- Peanut Butter Drizzle: Warm a small amount of peanut butter to drizzle over the cake, giving it an extra peanutty flavor.
- Greek Yogurt Frosting: Use unsweetened, plain Greek yogurt for a creamy, dog-friendly frosting. You can mix a bit of peanut butter into the yogurt for added flavor.
- Fruit Garnish: Top the cake with a few slices of banana, apple, or berries (like blueberries or strawberries) for a fresh, fruity touch.
- Shredded Carrots: Sprinkle some shredded carrots on top for a bit of color and crunch.
- Crumbled Dog Treats: Decorate the cake with crumbled dog biscuits or small dog treats for added texture and flair.
Topping the Cake
Once the cake is cool, you can add your favorite toppings from the list above. For a frosted look, spread a thin layer of Greek yogurt or a peanut butter drizzle on top, then garnish with fruit slices or shredded carrots for added texture and flavor.
Benefits of the Ingredients
- Whole Wheat Flour: Provides fiber, vitamins, and minerals that help with digestion.
- Banana: Bananas are full of potassium, fiber, and natural sugars that provide quick energy.
- Peanut Butter: Peanut butter is a good source of protein and healthy fats, but be sure to use a dog-safe, xylitol-free variety.
- Egg: Eggs are high in protein and essential nutrients that support muscle and tissue health.
- Cinnamon (optional): In small amounts, cinnamon can add flavor and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Feeding Guidelines
This cake is best served in small portions as a treat. Depending on the size of your dog, a slice or two is enough. While it’s made with dog-friendly ingredients, it should still be given in moderation as a special treat rather than a meal replacement.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and prevents spoilage.
- Freezer: If you have leftovers, freeze individual slices in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to a month. Just thaw the slices before serving to your pup.