If there’s one thing my dog absolutely loses his mind over, it’s peanut butter. That moment when I pop open the jar and he comes sprinting from across the house—it’s like his own personal holiday.
So, when I decided to combine his love for peanut butter with a fun, homemade treat, these Peanut Butter Dog Donuts were born. They’re soft, chewy, and just the right size for a pup’s paws (or mouth). Plus, they’re ridiculously easy to make, which means more time for belly rubs and less time in the kitchen.
Trust me, your dog will be doing happy spins when they catch a whiff of these baking in the oven.
Peanut Butter Dog Donuts Recipe
For this simple recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Donuts
- 1 cup whole wheat flour: A nutritious base that’s easy to digest.
- 1/3 cup of milk: Ads delicious moisture
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (unsalted, xylitol-free): The star of the show—dogs can’t resist it!
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce: Adds moisture and natural sweetness.
- 1 egg: Helps bind everything together.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Gives the donuts a little lift.
For the Topping (Optional but Highly Recommended)
- 2/3 cup plain Greek yogurt: A creamy, protein-rich topping.
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter: For drizzling or spreading on top.
- 3 slices of bacon bits (or crushed dog-friendly treats): For a little extra flair (and drool-worthy appeal).
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Making the Donuts
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a donut pan with coconut oil or a non-stick spray.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the peanut butter, applesauce, and egg. Stir until smooth and well blended.
- Add the Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix in the whole wheat flour and baking powder. Stir until a thick dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, add a tablespoon more flour.
- Fill the Donut Pan: Spoon the dough into the donut pan, filling each cavity about 3/4 full. Use your fingers or a spatula to smooth the tops.
- Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the donuts are firm and lightly golden.
- Cool: Let the donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 2. Adding the Topping
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt and peanut butter until smooth.
- Decorate the Donuts: Spread or drizzle the topping over the cooled donuts. Sprinkle with crushed dog treats or bacon bits for extra pizzazz.
Feeding Guidelines
These donuts are a special treat, so moderation is key. Here’s a general guide for serving:
- Small Dogs (under 20 lbs): 1 donut per week, broken into smaller pieces for training or snacks.
- Medium Dogs (20-50 lbs): 1-2 donuts per week.
- Large Dogs (50+ lbs): 2-3 donuts per week.
Always monitor your dog for any signs of allergies or sensitivities, especially when introducing new ingredients like peanut butter or yogurt. If your dog has specific dietary restrictions, consult your veterinarian before serving.
Storage and Serving Tips
- Storage: Store the donuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap individual donuts in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Serving: Break the donuts into smaller pieces for training rewards or for smaller dogs. Always supervise your dog while they enjoy their treat.
Tips for Success
- Use a Donut Pan: If you don’t have one, you can shape the dough into small rounds and bake them on a cookie sheet. They’ll still taste amazing!
- Check for Xylitol: Always ensure your peanut butter is xylitol-free, as it’s toxic to dogs.
- Cool Completely: Let the donuts cool entirely before adding the topping to prevent it from melting.
- Get Creative: Add fun toppings like shredded carrots, coconut flakes, or even a drizzle of honey (in moderation).
Benefits of the Ingredients
- Peanut Butter: Packed with healthy fats and protein, but always make sure it’s xylitol-free.
- Whole Wheat Flour: Provides fiber and energy, making it a healthier alternative to refined flour.
- Applesauce: Adds natural sweetness and moisture without added sugar.
- Greek Yogurt: A great source of probiotics for gut health and calcium for strong bones.
- Eggs: High-quality protein to keep your pup strong and happy.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different flour?
Yes! You can substitute whole wheat flour with oat flour, coconut flour, or almond flour. Just adjust the quantity as needed, as some flours absorb more moisture.
2. Can I skip the topping?
Absolutely! The donuts are delicious on their own, but the topping adds a fun, festive touch.
3. Can I use store-bought peanut butter?
Yes, but make sure it’s natural, unsalted, and free from xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the look on your dog’s face when they realize you’ve made something special just for them. These Peanut Butter Dog Donuts are more than just a treat—they’re a little way to say “I love you” in a language they understand.
Whether it’s for a birthday, a training reward, or just because, these donuts are sure to make your pup’s day. So, grab your mixing bowl, preheat that oven, and get ready to be the hero of your dog’s world. After all, isn’t that what being a pet parent is all about? Happy baking (and tail-wagging)!