Sunday mornings in our house have a rhythm to them: coffee brewing, pancakes on the griddle, and Snickers planted firmly at my feet, convinced she’s been forgotten in all the breakfast chaos.
A few weeks ago, I was pulling out the waffle maker for the kids when it hit me: why shouldn’t Snickers get in on the waffle action too?
I had half a sweet potato left over from dinner, an overripe banana begging to be used, and a waffle iron that was already heating up anyway.
Twenty minutes later, I had a batch of perfectly golden, tail-wagging-approved dog waffles cooling on the counter, and Snickers was looking at me like I’d just invented bacon. Win-win!
Sweet Potato Waffle Treats for Dogs
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Baked sweet potato (mashed) | ½ cup |
| Ripe, mashed banana (small) | 1 |
| Large egg | 1 |
| Oat flour | ½ cup |
| Coconut oil | 2½ tablespoons |
| Cinnamon (optional) | 1 teaspoon |
Sweet Potato Prep Tip: Bake your sweet potato ahead of time—poke holes with a fork, wrap in foil, and bake at 400°F for 45-60 minutes until soft. Let it cool, then scoop out the flesh and mash it smooth.
Step-by-Step Waffle-Making Instructions
Step 1: Get Your Equipment Ready
Plug in your waffle maker and let it preheat according to the manufacturer’s directions. A mini waffle iron works perfectly for dog-sized waffles, but a regular one works too, you can simply break them into smaller pieces later.
Step 2: Make Oat Flour
If making your own oat flour, start by adding about ¾ cup of rolled oats to a food processor or blender. Pulse until the oats turn into a fine, flour-like texture. Measure out what you need for the recipe and set it aside for later use.
Step 3: Mash the Sweet Potato and Banana
Add ½ cup of mashed baked sweet potato to a medium mixing bowl. Peel your ripe banana and mash it together with the sweet potato using a fork until the mixture is smooth and creamy with no visible banana chunks.
Step 4: Beat and Add the Egg
Crack the egg into a small bowl and whisk it lightly with a fork. Pour the beaten egg into your sweet potato and banana mixture, then stir until the ingredients are evenly combined and smooth throughout.
Step 5: Melt and Mix in the Coconut Oil
Place the coconut oil in a small microwave-safe dish and heat it for about 10–15 seconds, just until melted. Let it cool slightly so it doesn’t cook the egg, then pour it into your batter. Stir thoroughly to ensure the oil is evenly mixed in and the batter looks cohesive.
Step 6: Add the Ground Oats and Cinnamon
Pour your homemade oat flour into the wet ingredients, and if you’re using cinnamon, sprinkle it in now for a gentle scent and anti-inflammatory benefits. Stir with a spoon or spatula until the batter thickens to a smooth consistency.
Step 7: Prep the Waffle Maker
When your waffle maker is fully heated (most have a ready light), lightly brush or spray the plates with melted coconut oil to prevent sticking. This step gives the waffles a lovely golden edge and makes cleanup easier later.
Step 8: Scoop and Spread the Batter
Spoon about 1–2 tablespoons of batter for mini waffles, or 3–4 tablespoons for larger ones. Drop the batter onto the waffle iron and spread it slightly with the back of your spoon, leaving a bit of space for it to expand when you close the lid.
Step 9: Cook Until Golden
Close the lid and cook the waffles for 3–5 minutes, depending on your machine. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown, slightly firm to the touch, and the steam has mostly stopped escaping. Gently remove the waffles with a fork or silicone spatula so they keep their shape.
Step 10: Cool Before Serving
Transfer each waffle to your prepared cooling rack or plate and let them cool completely for at least 20–30 minutes. This allows them to firm up and ensures they’re cool enough for your dog to enjoy safely. Once cooled, they’re ready to serve—or store for later.
Storage and Serving Guidelines
Refrigerator Storage (Up to 1 Week):
Once your waffles are completely cool, store them in a zip-lock bag or airtight container in the fridge. The cold storage keeps them fresh and prevents any spoilage. Pull one out and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving, or give it cold if your dog doesn’t mind.
Freezer Storage (2-3 Months):
These waffles freeze exceptionally well for longer storage. Place cooled waffles in a single layer in a freezer bag, pressing out excess air before sealing. Stack them with parchment paper between layers if needed. They’ll technically stay safe beyond 3 months, but the flavor and texture are best within that timeframe.
Serving Options:
Thaw frozen waffles in the refrigerator overnight, or let them sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. Some dogs enjoy them straight from the freezer as a cool, crunchy treat on hot days.
Treat Portions by Dog Size
| Dog Weight | Waffle Size | Daily Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 5-15 lbs | ¼ mini waffle | 1-2 pieces |
| 16-30 lbs | ½ mini waffle | 2-3 pieces |
| 31-50 lbs | 1 mini waffle | 2-3 waffles |
| 51-70 lbs | 1-2 mini waffles | 3-4 waffles |
| 71+ lbs | 2 mini waffles | 4-5 waffles |
These serving sizes are starting points, not absolute rules. Every dog metabolizes treats differently based on their breed, activity level, age, and individual health.
Monitor your dog’s weight and energy, adjusting treat portions up or down as needed.
If your dog has specific health concerns or dietary restrictions, consult with your veterinarian before introducing new treats into their routine.
Health Benefits Your Dog Gets
- Vitamin A for Eye and Immune Health
Sweet potatoes are loaded with beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A in your dog’s body. This supports healthy vision, immune function, and skin health.
- Natural Fiber for Digestion
Both sweet potato and banana provide gentle, natural fiber that promotes healthy digestion and regular bowel movements. Great for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
- Healthy Fats from Coconut Oil
Coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that support brain function, provide quick energy, and promote a shiny, healthy coat.
- Anti-Inflammatory Cinnamon
The optional cinnamon isn’t just for flavor—it has natural anti-inflammatory properties that may benefit joint health and help regulate blood sugar.
FAQs
Can I use raw sweet potato instead of baked?
No, raw sweet potato is difficult for dogs to digest and doesn’t provide the same nutritional benefits. Always bake or steam sweet potatoes until they’re soft before using them in dog treats.
The batter seems too thick/thin—what do I do?
If your batter is too thick and barely pourable, add water one teaspoon at a time until it loosens. If it’s too runny, add oat flour one tablespoon at a time until it thickens to a proper waffle batter consistency.
Are these safe for dogs with grain allergies?
Yes! Oat flour is naturally gluten-free and works well for most dogs with grain sensitivities. However, if your dog has a specific oat allergy, you can substitute coconut flour (use about ⅓ cup instead, as it’s more absorbent).
Final Words
And just like that, Sunday morning waffle time became a family affair. Kids at the table with their maple syrup, Snickers on her bed with her sweet potato version, and everyone happy as can be.
It’s funny how something as simple as including your pup in breakfast traditions can make the whole morning feel a little more special.
These waffles have become our weekend ritual now, and honestly, I’m not sure who gets more excited about waffle day—the kids or Snickers. From our waffle iron to yours, happy cooking!