The other day, I found myself in the kitchen with a ripe banana that was past its prime for human consumption. Rather than discard it, I noticed a jar of unsweetened applesauce on the counter and thought it might make a fine treat for my four-legged companion.
That’s how these Banana Applesauce Dog Treats came about—a straightforward recipe that’s proven to be a success at home. If you enjoy preparing wholesome, homemade goodies for your dog, this recipe is well worth your time. Let’s proceed with this simple and rewarding endeavor.
Why You’ll Love This Banana Applesauce Delight
- Naturally sweet thanks to banana and applesauce
- Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for a quick baking session.
- Soft yet firm texture that suits dogs of all ages.
- Packed with beneficial fiber and vitamins for your pet’s well-being.
- Made with affordable ingredients you likely have on hand.
Banana Applesauce Dog Treats
Ingredients
- 1 ripe banana, mashed: Adds natural sweetness and a boost of potassium.
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce (no added sugar or artificial sweeteners): Brings moisture and a dose of vitamins A and C.
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour: A nutritious base that’s easy to digest.
- 1 egg: A dog-friendly source of protein for strong muscles.
- 1/4 cup rolled oats: Adds fiber and a hearty texture pups love.
Optional Add-Ons
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter (unsalted, xylitol-free): A tasty source of healthy fats and protein.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Enhances flavor with a hint of antioxidants.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper to prevent the treats from sticking during baking—a practical step that simplifies cleanup later.
Step 2: Mash the Banana
Take a large mixing bowl and place the ripe banana inside. Using a fork, mash it thoroughly until it’s mostly smooth, though a few small lumps are acceptable. A very ripe banana works best here, as it mashes easily and enhances the natural sweetness.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
To the mashed banana, add 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce and the egg. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until the mixture is fully combined, forming a consistent wet base. Ensure the applesauce is free of added sugars or artificial sweeteners, which can be harmful to dogs.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour and the 1/4 cup rolled oats to the wet mixture. Stir steadily until a soft dough forms—it should pull away from the sides of the bowl and hold together well. If using optional add-ons like peanut butter or cinnamon, fold them in now to distribute evenly throughout the dough.
Step 5: Roll and Cut
Lightly dust a clean surface with flour to prevent sticking, then turn the dough out onto it. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough to a 1/4-inch thickness, ensuring it’s even for consistent baking. Select a cookie cutter—bone shapes are a popular choice—and cut out as many treats as possible, gathering scraps to re-roll until all dough is used.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Arrange the cut-out treats on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart since they won’t spread much. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges turn golden and the treats feel firm when pressed lightly. Check at the 15-minute mark to avoid overcooking, as ovens can vary.
Step 7: Cool Down
Once baked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and transfer the treats to a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely—about 20-30 minutes—before handling or storing, as this step ensures they firm up properly and maintain their freshness.
Storage and Serving
Keep these treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or refrigerate them for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months, thawing individual treats as needed. Serve one or two as a reward, depending on your dog’s size.
Feeding Guidelines
These treats should complement your dog’s regular diet, accounting for no more than 10% of their daily caloric intake. Offer half a treat to small dogs and one or two to medium or large dogs, adjusting based on their weight and activity level.
Tips for Success
- Choose a very ripe banana for easier mashing and richer flavor.
- If the dough feels sticky, sprinkle in extra flour, one tablespoon at a time.
- Test a small batch first if your dog hasn’t tried these ingredients before.
- Experiment with cutter shapes to add variety to your baking routine.
Substitutes and Variations
- Use oat flour or rice flour in place of whole wheat for dogs with wheat sensitivities.
- Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) if preferred.
- Add a pinch of chia seeds instead of peanut butter for an omega-3 boost.
- Substitute applesauce with pumpkin puree for a different flavor profile.
Benefits of the Ingredients
- Banana: Rich in potassium and fiber, supporting digestion and energy.
- Applesauce: Provides vitamins A and C with a gentle sweetness.
- Whole wheat flour: Supplies carbohydrates for sustained energy.
- Egg: Delivers protein for muscle maintenance.
- Oats: Offers fiber for a healthy digestive system.
FAQs
Can I use sweetened applesauce?
No, only unsweetened applesauce is safe, as added sugars or sweeteners like xylitol can harm dogs.
Are these suitable for puppies?
Yes, they’re gentle enough for puppies, though introduce them gradually in small portions.
Can I omit the egg?
Certainly, skip it or use a flax egg, though the texture may be slightly crumblier.
Conclusion
There you have it—Banana Applesauce Dog Treats that are both simple to prepare and a genuine pleasure for your dog. I find it rewarding to craft these treats at home, knowing they’re made with care and quality ingredients. Try this recipe when you have a spare moment, and enjoy the satisfaction of treating your companion to something special—happy baking!