Last summer, I found myself in a standoff with my dog during a sweltering afternoon. He was sprawled across the kitchen floor, panting like he’d just run a marathon, and giving me those pleading eyes that said, “Do something about this heat!”
I rummaged through the fridge, grabbed some peanut butter, and started experimenting—because if there’s one thing my furry friend loves more than a belly rub, it’s a peanut butter treat. What came out of that sweaty, sticky moment was a trio of frozen goodies that turned his droopy tail into a wagging blur.
These frozen peanut butter dog treats—blending banana, yogurt, and pumpkin with that nutty magic—became my go-to for cooling him down and lifting his spirits.
Why You’ll Love These Frozen Peanut Butter Treat Delights
- Perfect for hot days, offering a cooling, creamy texture.
- Made with peanut butter—a flavor most dogs can’t resist.
- Quick to prepare with minimal ingredients and no baking required.
- Versatile bases like banana, yogurt, and pumpkin for variety and nutrition.
Frozen Peanut Butter Dog Treats
Below are three recipes designed to chill and thrill your dog, each with an ingredient table and detailed steps for a perfect freeze.
Frozen Peanut Butter Banana Dog Treats
| Ingredient | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 ripe banana | Natural sweetness and potassium for energy. |
| 1/2 cup peanut butter | Rich flavor and healthy fats (no xylitol). |
| 2 tbsp unsweetened applesauce | Adds moisture and a subtle sweet note. |
| 1/2 tsp honey | Mild sweetness for appeal—safe in small amounts. |
| 2 tbsp water or low-sodium chicken broth | Thins mixture for easy molding. |
Step 1: Mash the Banana
Peel 1 ripe banana and mash it in a medium bowl with a fork until smooth—ripe bananas blend easily and enhance sweetness.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
Add 1/2 cup peanut butter (unsalted, no xylitol), 2 tbsp unsweetened applesauce, 1/2 tsp honey, and 2 tbsp water or low-sodium chicken broth. Stir until fully combined—a blender can smooth it further if desired.
Step 3: Fill the Molds
Spoon the mixture into silicone molds (small bone or paw shapes) or an ice cube tray, filling each section to the top. Tap gently to settle and remove air bubbles.
Step 4: Freeze the Treats
Place the molds in the freezer for 3-4 hours, until solid—check at 3 hours for firmness.
Step 5: Serve
Pop out one treat and serve chilled—start with 1 small treat (1-2 tsp) to gauge your dog’s enjoyment.
Frozen Peanut Butter Yogurt Dog Treats
| Ingredient | Description |
|---|---|
| 1/2 cup peanut butter | Creamy base with healthy fats (no xylitol). |
| 1/2 cup Greek yogurt | Probiotics and creaminess for gut health. |
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup peanut butter (unsalted, no xylitol) with 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (plain, unsweetened). Stir with a spoon until smooth—the simplicity keeps it pure.
Step 2: Fill the Molds
Spoon the mixture into silicone molds or an ice cube tray, filling each section evenly. Tap lightly to level it out.
Step 3: Freeze the Treats
Freeze for 3-4 hours, until fully set—check at 3 hours for a solid texture.
Step 4: Serve
Remove one treat from the mold and serve cold—offer 1 small treat (1-2 tsp) to start, especially if yogurt is new to your dog.
Frozen Peanut Butter Pumpkin Dog Treats
| Ingredient | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 cup pumpkin puree | Fiber and nutrients for digestion (plain). |
| 1/2 cup & 2 tablespoons peanut butter | Extra richness and flavor (no xylitol). |
| 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted | Healthy fats for smoothness and coat health. |
Step 1: Melt the Coconut Oil
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 1/4 cup coconut oil in 15-second bursts until liquid—let it cool slightly to avoid curdling the mixture.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup pumpkin puree (plain, not spiced), 1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons peanut butter (unsalted, no xylitol), and melted coconut oil. Stir until creamy and well-blended.
Step 3: Fill the Molds
Spoon the mixture into silicone molds or an ice cube tray, filling each section fully. Tap to settle the mix evenly.
Step 4: Freeze the Treats
Place in the freezer for 3-4 hours, until solid—check at 3 hours for a firm consistency.
Step 5: Serve
Pop out one treat and serve chilled—begin with 1 small treat (1-2 tsp) to ensure your dog likes the pumpkin.
Storage and Serving
Store all treats in freezer-safe bags or containers in the freezer for up to 3 months. Serve straight from the freezer—offer 1-2 treats daily (1 tsp for small dogs, up to 2 tbsp for larger breeds) as a cooling reward, keeping them within 10% of daily calories. Perfect for hot days or after playtime.
Feeding Guidelines
These treats supplement your dog’s diet, providing a tasty, refreshing boost rather than full nutrition. Introduce slowly—start with half a treat—to check for tolerance to peanut butter, dairy, or pumpkin. Limit to occasional use (2-3 times weekly), and consult your vet if your dog has sensitivities (e.g., lactose or fat).
Tips for Success
- Use natural peanut butter—confirm no xylitol, salt, or sugar.
- Adjust liquid (water, broth) for thinner consistency if molds are small.
- Serve outdoors or on a mat—frozen treats can get messy as they melt.
- Freeze in tiny portions for training or quick snacks.
Benefits of the Ingredients
- Peanut Butter: Healthy fats and protein for taste and energy.
- Banana & Applesauce: Natural sweetness and nutrients for appeal.
- Yogurt: Probiotics for gut health and a creamy texture.
- Pumpkin: Fiber and vitamins to support digestion.
- Coconut Oil: Fats for coat shine and smoothness.
Conclusion
These Frozen Peanut Butter Dog Treats bring a refreshing twist to your dog’s day. I’ve loved watching my pup savor their chilly goodness, and I hope you’ll find the same delight in sharing them. Freeze a batch when the sun’s out or your dog needs a treat, and enjoy the simple pleasure of a cool, happy moment—here’s to frosty tails and contented pups!