One quiet afternoon, I found myself rummaging through the pantry, determined to bake something special for my dog after a week of extra-long walks. So, I crafted these delicious dog treats topped with a creamy frosting that had my pup’s nose twitching in anticipation.
They blend the nutty richness of peanut butter with a hint of honey’s sweetness, offering a homemade delight that’s both satisfying and straightforward. If you’re eager to treat your dog to something baked with care, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of flavor and ease.
Let’s get started on this tasty project together.
Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Honey Treat Delight
- Features peanut butter’s irresistible flavor with a touch of honey.
- Easy to make with basic ingredients and a quick frosting finish.
- Offers a crisp treat with a creamy topping dogs adore.
- A wholesome alternative to store-bought options, made with love.
Peanut Butter Honey Dog Treats Recipe
This recipe creates a batch of baked treats with a simple frosting, ideal for rewards or special occasions. Below are the ingredient tables for the treats and frosting, followed by detailed steps.
For the Treats
| Ingredient | Description |
|---|---|
| 2½ cups oat flour or whole wheat flour | Hearty base for structure and nutrition. |
| 1 large egg | Binds the dough and adds protein. |
| ¾ cup natural, unsalted peanut butter | Rich flavor and fats (no xylitol—check label). |
| ¾ cup water | Moistens the dough for easy rolling. |
| 1 tablespoon honey (optional) | Subtle sweetness—reduce for lower sugar. |
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to preheat. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking—a practical prep for smooth baking.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine ¾ cup natural, unsalted peanut butter (no xylitol—double-check the label), ¾ cup water, 1 large egg, and 1 tablespoon honey (optional—skip or use ½ tbsp for less sugar). Whisk or stir with a sturdy spoon for 1-2 minutes until smooth and fully blended—the mixture should be creamy with no lumps.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
Gradually add 2½ cups oat flour or whole wheat flour to the wet mixture, stirring with a spoon or your hands for 2-3 minutes until a dough forms. It should be firm and sticky.
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
Lightly dust a clean surface with flour (oat or wheat, matching your choice). Using a rolling pin, roll the dough to a 1/2-1/4-inch thickness—aim for evenness to ensure uniform baking. Check thickness with a ruler if needed.
Step 5: Cut the Treats
Use a cookie cutter (2-3 inch bones, hearts, or rounds) to cut out shapes from the dough. Place each piece on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Gather scraps, re-roll, and cut until all dough is used—expect 20-25 treats depending on cutter size.
Step 6: Bake the Treats
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 17-20 minutes, until the edges turn golden and the treats feel firm to the touch. Check at 20 minutes—slightly softer treats work for some dogs, while longer baking adds crunch.
Step 7: Cool Completely
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and transfer the treats to a wire rack. Let them cool for 20-30 minutes until fully at room temperature—cooling sets their texture before frosting.
For the Frosting
| Ingredient | Description |
|---|---|
| 2 tablespoons peanut butter | Creamy base for flavor and richness (no xylitol). |
| 1 tablespoon honey (optional) | Sweetens lightly—reduce to ½ tbsp if desired. |
| ⅓ cup arrowroot powder or cornstarch | Thickens the frosting for a smooth finish. |
| 4 tablespoons hot water | Blends the mix into a spreadable consistency. |
Step 1: Heat the Water
Boil 4 tablespoons water in a kettle or microwave (about 30 seconds on high)—it should be hot but not scalding. Set aside briefly to cool slightly while prepping.
Step 2: Mix the Base
In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons peanut butter (natural, unsalted, no xylitol) and 1 tablespoon honey (optional—use ½ tbsp for less sweetness). Stir with a spoon for 1 minute until blended—the honey adds a glossy touch.
Step 3: Add Thickener
Gradually mix in ⅓ cup arrowroot powder or cornstarch, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes to avoid clumps—it’ll look dry at first but will smooth out with water.
Step 4: Incorporate Hot Water
Slowly pour in the 4 tablespoons hot water, one tablespoon at a time, stirring vigorously after each addition—about 2-3 minutes total—until the frosting is thick yet spreadable, like a creamy icing. Adjust with a splash more water if too stiff.
Step 5: Frost the Treats
Once the treats are fully cooled, use a small spoon or butter knife to spread a thin layer of frosting (about ½ tsp) over the top of each treat. Work quickly—frosting thickens as it cools. Let it set for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Storage and Serving
Store frosted treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week—frosting keeps them moist, so fridge storage is best. For longer storage, freeze unfrosted treats for up to 3 months and frost after thawing; frosted treats can freeze for 1 month but may soften slightly.
Feeding Guidelines
These treats supplement your dog’s diet, offering a tasty boost rather than full nutrition. Introduce slowly—start with half a treat—to ensure tolerance to peanut butter, dairy, or honey.
Serve 1-2 treats per day—half or one for small dogs, up to two for larger breeds—as a reward, keeping within 10% of daily calories. Consult your vet if your dog has sensitivities (e.g., wheat or sugar concerns).
Substitutes and Variations
- Swap oat flour with brown rice flour for a gluten-free option.
- Replace water with low-sodium broth for extra flavor in the dough.
- Use mashed banana instead of honey in the treats for natural sweetness.
- Substitute arrowroot with tapioca starch in the frosting—same thickening effect.
Benefits of the Ingredients
- Peanut Butter: Healthy fats and protein for taste and energy.
- Flour: Fiber and structure for a hearty treat.
- Egg: Protein and binding for texture.
- Honey: Mild sweetness and antioxidants—used sparingly.
- Arrowroot/Cornstarch: Smooths the frosting without altering flavor.
FAQs
Is honey safe for dogs?
Yes, in small amounts—reduce or skip if sugar’s a concern.
How much frosting is okay?
A thin layer (½ tsp per treat)—it’s a bonus, not the main event.
Can I skip the frosting?
Yes, sure—frosting’s an optional indulgence.
Conclusion
These Peanut Butter Honey Dog Treats bring a touch of sweetness and crunch to your dog’s day. I’ve savored the process of baking and frosting them, watching my pup’s excitement grow, and I hope you’ll find that same joy. Bake a batch when you’re ready to pamper your companion, and enjoy the delight of a treat made with care—here’s to happy pups and homemade goodness!