A soft, wholesome cake perfect for pup birthdays and “just because” days.
The first time I baked this sweet potato peanut butter dog cake, it was for Snickers’ birthday—and let’s just say he didn’t leave a crumb behind. Moist, naturally sweet, and topped with a creamy dog-friendly frosting, this cake is the perfect way to celebrate your dog with something made just for them.
What I love about this recipe is how easy it is. With pantry staples like sweet potato, pumpkin, and peanut butter, it comes together in no time—and bakes into a soft, flavorful cake that looks (and smells) amazing.
Let’s bake a treat your dog will absolutely love.
Why You’ll Love This Dog Cake
- Soft and easy to chew
- Free from sugar, salt, and artificial sweeteners
- Great for birthdays
Sweet Potato Peanut Butter Dog Cake Recipe
For this simple and delicious dog-friendly cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Cake Layer
| Ingredient | Purpose / Benefit |
|---|---|
| 2 tbsp olive oil | Adds moisture and healthy fats for coat health |
| ¼ cup natural peanut butter | Protein-rich and tasty (make sure it’s xylitol-free) |
| ½ cup sweet potato purée | Natural sweetness, rich in fiber and vitamin A |
| ½ cup pumpkin purée | Supports digestion and adds moisture |
| 1 medium egg | Binds the batter and adds protein |
| ½ cup whole wheat flour (or oat flour) | Structure; oat flour is gentler on sensitive stomachs |
| ½ tsp baking soda | Helps the cake rise a bit without being too airy |
Frosting
| Ingredient | Purpose / Benefit |
|---|---|
| ⅓ cup natural peanut butter | Creamy, rich, and dog-approved |
| ½ cup plain Greek yogurt | Thick, tangy, and full of probiotics |
Note: Always double-check your peanut butter to ensure it contains no xylitol, artificial sweeteners, or added salt.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a small cake pan (6-inch works well) or line it with parchment paper. You can also use silicone cupcake molds for smaller, individual pupcakes.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, peanut butter, sweet potato purée, pumpkin purée, and egg until smooth and fully combined. This creates a soft, creamy base packed with moisture and flavor.
3. Add the Dry Ingredients
Sprinkle in the flour and baking soda, then stir just until the batter is evenly mixed. Don’t overmix—just fold it all together until no dry flour remains. The batter will be thick and spoonable, not pourable.
4. Pour and Bake
Spoon the batter into your prepared pan or muffin cups, spreading it evenly with the back of a spoon. Bake for 20–25 minutes (for small cakes or cupcakes) or up to 30 minutes for a thicker single-layer cake.
Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick—it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
5. Cool Completely
Let the cake cool in the pan for 5–10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting. This is key—adding yogurt-based frosting to a warm cake will cause it to melt or separate.
How to Make Dog-Friendly Frosting
1. Mix It Up
In a small bowl, stir together the peanut butter and Greek yogurt until smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick to spread, you can thin it slightly with a teaspoon of water or plain kefir.
2. Frost and Decorate
Once the cake is cool, spread the frosting over the top using a spoon or butter knife. You can swirl it smooth or create soft peaks for a fun texture. Optional: top with a few dog treats or banana slices for extra flair!
Storage Tips
Store the frosted cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4–5 days. If making ahead, you can also freeze the unfrosted cake for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and frost just before serving.
For small dogs or one-pup households, consider slicing and freezing individual portions.
Feeding Guidelines
This cake is a treat—not a full meal—so serve in moderation. The ideal serving size depends on your dog’s size:
- Small dogs: 1–2 small slices
- Medium dogs: 2–3 slices
- Large dogs: Up to ½ the cake as a treat
Introduce gently, especially if your dog isn’t used to rich ingredients like peanut butter or pumpkin. Always serve with fresh water nearby!
Tips for Success
- Room-temp ingredients mix more evenly. Let your egg, pumpkin, and sweet potato sit out for 15 minutes before combining so the batter comes together without clumps.
- Let the cake cool completely before frosting. This prevents the yogurt from melting and helps the frosting stay smooth and spreadable.
- Use silicone molds or muffin tins for easy portioning. They pop out easily and make cute single-serve cupcakes.
- Don’t overbake. You want the cake to stay moist, so check with a toothpick at the minimum baking time and add minutes only if needed.
FAQs
Can I use canned sweet potato or pumpkin?
Yes! Just make sure it’s 100% pure with no added spices or sweeteners.
Can I use oat flour instead of wheat flour?
Absolutely—oat flour is a great option for dogs with sensitive stomachs or grain sensitivities.
Is the frosting safe for all dogs?
Most dogs can safely enjoy peanut butter and yogurt, but check with your vet if your pup has dietary restrictions or is lactose intolerant.
Final Thoughts
This Sweet Potato Peanut Butter Dog Cake is the ultimate homemade celebration treat for your furry friend. It’s easy to make, full of healthy ingredients, and lets you spoil your dog with something you feel good about serving.