Your dog will definitely not forgive you if you don’t try out this Apple Chips Dog Treats recipe I’m about to share!
I know you want to treat your furry friend to something healthy, homemade, and packed with nutrients, but finding the perfect recipe that checks all the boxes can be a real challenge.
Well, this Apple Chips Dog Treats recipe is a game changer. It’s incredibly simple, nutritious, and your dog is guaranteed to love it.
And the best part? It’s so easy to make, I’ll walk you through every step of the process using just a few simple ingredients.
Why This Specific Recipe is Worth Making
This recipe is one of those gems where simplicity meets nutrition. Apples are already an awesome snack for dogs, providing fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, while cinnamon brings an extra layer of flavor that’s not only tasty but also safe for dogs in small quantities.
Combine that with the health benefits of coconut oil—rich in healthy fats—and you’ve got yourself a treat that your dog can enjoy without guilt.
Not only are these Apple Chips Dog Treats easy to whip up, but they’re also naturally free from preservatives, added sugars, and artificial ingredients.
And because this recipe uses just three main ingredients, it’s ideal for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies.
You don’t have to worry about what goes into the treat; it’s all healthy, whole foods. This recipe truly lets you spoil your dog in the healthiest way possible. So why not give it a try? Your pup will thank you for it.
Recipe: Apple Chips Dog Treats
Prep Time & Cook Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Tools Needed:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper (optional, for easy cleanup)
- Knife and cutting board
- Basting brush (optional for applying coconut oil)
- Oven
Ingredients Needed:
- 2 large apples (sliced thinly)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (a small amount is safe for dogs)
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil (melted)
Substitutions for Allergies:
- If your dog has an allergy to coconut oil, you can use olive oil or another dog-safe oil like sunflower oil.
- For a variation on flavor, you could try a pinch of turmeric (but be sure to keep it small—turmeric is potent!).
Follow This Steps Closely To Make This Treat
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 200°F (90°C). This low temperature will allow the apples to dry out slowly, becoming crispy without burning. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Slice the Apples
Using a sharp knife, carefully slice your apples into thin rounds—aim for about 1/8-inch thickness. The thinner the slices, the crispier your chips will be!
But before that, you must remove the core of the apples first, leaving the seeds in is a bad idea, as can cause harm to you dog. The key here is getting even slices, so if you have a mandoline slicer, it can help you achieve a uniform thickness.
Step 3: Coat with Cinnamon and Coconut Oil
Once the apples are sliced, place them in a large bowl. Drizzle the melted coconut oil over the slices, ensuring each one is lightly coated.
Coconut oil adds healthy fats that help support your dog’s coat and overall well-being. After that, sprinkle the cinnamon evenly over the apples.
Cinnamon not only enhances the flavor but also has anti-inflammatory properties that can benefit your dog’s joints. Mix everything together gently.
Step 4: Arrange on the Baking Sheet
Place the apple slices in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. If some slices overlap, that’s okay, but try to make them as flat as possible to ensure even cooking. You might need to use two baking sheets depending on how many apple slices you have.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Now, it’s time to bake those apples! Pop the tray in the oven and bake for 1 hour, flipping the slices halfway through.
Keep an eye on them in the last 15 minutes to make sure they don’t burn. The apples should crisp up nicely and turn golden brown around the edges.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once the apple chips are crisp and golden, take them out of the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. This cooling period is crucial as it allows the chips to harden fully and reach their optimal crunch factor. After cooling, they’re ready to serve to your happy pup!
Feeding Size: How to Serve the Treats
These apple chips are light, crunchy, and full of natural goodness, making them a perfect snack or training treat for your dog.
The portion size will depend on the size and breed of your dog. For smaller dogs, break the chips into smaller pieces to avoid overfeeding. Larger dogs can enjoy the whole apple slice.
As a general rule, limit your dog to 2-3 apple chips per day, especially if they’re new to the treat, to ensure they don’t get too many extra calories.
Nutritional Values Estimated
Here’s a rough breakdown of what your dog will get from these tasty apple chips:
- Apples: Rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, apples help support digestion, boost immunity, and keep your dog’s skin and coat shiny.
- Cinnamon: Contains anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants, cinnamon can aid in joint health and improve blood circulation.
- Coconut Oil: Full of healthy fats, coconut oil helps support skin health, promotes a shiny coat, and provides an energy boost.
Storage Tips: How to Keep Your Apple Chips Fresh
Once you’ve baked up a batch of these irresistible apple chips, you’ll want to make sure they stay fresh and safe for your pup to enjoy. Here’s how to store them to keep them tasting great and crunchy for as long as possible.
Shelf Lifespan: How Long Before It Goes Bad?
These homemade apple chips don’t contain preservatives, so it’s important to store them properly to maintain their freshness. When stored correctly, they can last:
- At room temperature: In an airtight container, apple chips should stay fresh for about 1 week. Be sure to keep them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, to avoid any moisture that might make them soggy.
- In the fridge: If you want them to last a little longer, you can store them in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 weeks this way.
- In the freezer: If you’ve made a big batch, you can freeze the chips for up to 3 months. Just make sure they’re sealed tightly in a freezer-safe bag or container to prevent freezer burn.
Tips for Perfecting These Treats
Want to take your apple chips to the next level? Here are some extra tips to make sure you get the perfect crispy treat every time:
- Slice them thinner: The thinner the apple slices, the crunchier your chips will be. Aim for about 1/8-inch thick slices for maximum crispiness.
- Don’t crowd the baking sheet: Space the apple slices out as much as possible. Overlapping slices will not bake evenly and might not crisp up properly. Use multiple baking sheets if necessary.
- Try different apple varieties: Different apples will yield slightly different results. For a sweeter chip, go with Fuji or Gala apples. For a more tart flavor, Granny Smith apples are a great option.
- Bake in batches: If you want to ensure the perfect crispiness, bake your apple chips in smaller batches. That way, each slice gets more direct heat and has more room to dry out properly.
Safety Notes: Things to Keep in Mind
While these apple chips are healthy and safe for most dogs, there are a few important safety notes to consider when introducing any new food to your dog’s diet.
Pro Tip: Watch Out for Allergies
Some dogs have food sensitivities or allergies, and even the healthiest ingredients can cause reactions. It’s always a good idea to introduce any new treat slowly and observe your dog for any signs of discomfort or allergic reactions, such as:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Skin irritation
- Licking or pawing at their face
If your dog shows any signs of an allergy, discontinue the treat immediately and consult your vet for guidance.
While the ingredients in this recipe are generally safe for most dogs, each pup is unique, and some may be sensitive to certain foods.
Safe Swaps for Ingredients in This Recipe
If you’re concerned about allergies or if your dog has specific dietary restrictions, here are some safe substitutions you can try:
- Coconut Oil Substitute: If your dog is sensitive to coconut oil, you can use olive oil or sunflower oil as alternatives. Both are dog-safe and offer healthy fats, although they have slightly different nutritional benefits.
- Cinnamon Substitute: Cinnamon is safe in small amounts, but if you prefer to skip it or if your dog shows sensitivity, you can leave it out altogether. Alternatively, you could try a small pinch of turmeric for a mild flavor and some anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Apple Substitute: Although apples are generally safe for dogs, some pups may have a sensitivity to them. You can experiment with other fruits like blueberries or sweet potatoes as a base for your treat. Just ensure that any fruit used is safe for dogs, and avoid fruits like grapes or raisins, which are toxic to dogs.
The Health Benefits of the Main Ingredients
Why are these apple chips such a great choice for your dog? Here’s a breakdown of the health benefits of the main ingredients, which make these treats stand out from the rest:
- Apples:
- High in fiber, which helps with digestion and maintains bowel health.
- Packed with antioxidants, which protect your dog’s cells from free radical damage.
- Rich in vitamin C, which supports the immune system and can help with skin health.
- Cinnamon:
- Contains powerful antioxidants, which fight inflammation and can support joint health.
- Known for its ability to improve circulation and reduce blood sugar levels.
- A little goes a long way—cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties that can aid in reducing arthritis symptoms in dogs.
- Coconut Oil:
- Full of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are easily digested and provide a quick energy boost.
- Contains lauric acid, which has antimicrobial properties that can help support the immune system and fight infections.
- Supports healthy skin and coat by reducing dry skin and promoting a glossy finish.
These benefits make your apple chips more than just a tasty snack—they’re a wholesome treat that provides nutritional value, healthy fats, and antioxidants. Instead of serving your dog a bag of processed treats with who-knows-what inside, these homemade chips offer real, beneficial ingredients.
Dietary Suitability
This recipe is quite versatile and can work for many dogs with specific dietary needs:
- Low-fat diets: Coconut oil, though a fat source, is made up of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are more easily digestible and may actually aid in weight management.
- Grain-free diets: If your dog has a grain allergy or sensitivity, these apple chips are perfect! There’s no flour involved, so they’re completely grain-free.
- Hypoallergenic diets: This recipe has just three ingredients—apple, cinnamon, and coconut oil—which are all unlikely to trigger common food allergies in dogs. However, always monitor your dog for any reactions when introducing new foods.
Trouble Shooting: Recipe Didn’t Work After Following Guide Above
Sometimes, things just don’t go as planned, right? Here are a few common issues you might run into when making these treats and some solutions to get you back on track:
- Apples not crisping up: If your apple chips aren’t as crispy as you hoped, it could be due to the thickness of the slices. Make sure they’re thin—around 1/8 inch—so they dry out properly. If they’re still soft after the full baking time, you can leave them in the oven for another 10-15 minutes, but keep a close eye to avoid burning.
- Burned edges: This can happen if the oven temperature is too high or if the apple slices are too close together on the baking sheet. Make sure to bake at a low temperature (around 200°F) and spread out the slices to ensure they bake evenly.
- Sticking to the baking sheet: If your apple chips are sticking to the baking sheet, it’s likely because they weren’t properly coated in coconut oil. Next time, use a basting brush to ensure an even coat of oil on each slice, or line your baking sheet with parchment paper to make removal easier.
Health Concerns You Should Take Note Of
While these apple chips are a healthy treat, there are a few health considerations to keep in mind:
- Cinnamon: While cinnamon is safe in small quantities, large amounts can cause digestive upset and, in extreme cases, liver damage. Always stick to small amounts like the 1 teaspoon in this recipe to avoid any issues.
- Apple seeds: Apple seeds contain cyanide, which can be toxic in large quantities. Always core the apples before slicing them for this recipe. While a small amount of seeds isn’t typically harmful, it’s best to err on the side of caution.
- Coconut oil: Coconut oil is great for dogs, but it’s high in fat, so overconsumption can lead to weight gain or digestive upset. Use the recommended 2 tablespoons in this recipe to keep things in balance.
Cost: How Affordable is This Recipe?
One of the best things about these apple chips is how affordable they are. All the ingredients are relatively inexpensive and often found in your pantry already.
Apples are affordable, especially when bought in bulk, and coconut oil can last a while since you only need a small amount. Cinnamon is a pantry staple that doesn’t break the bank either.
Overall, this recipe is budget-friendly—perfect for dog owners looking to treat their pups without spending a fortune.
Convenience: How Simple is it to Make This Recipe?
Making these apple chips is about as easy as it gets! With only three ingredients, there’s no complicated prep or cooking process. The most time-consuming part is slicing the apples, but even that’s a breeze with a sharp knife or mandoline slicer.
From there, it’s just a matter of spreading the slices on a baking sheet, popping them in the oven, and waiting for them to crisp up. You’ll have a batch of fresh, homemade dog treats with minimal effort!
Will All Dogs Like This Recipe?
While most dogs will love the sweet, crunchy texture of these apple chips, every dog has their own tastes. Some pups might not be too thrilled by the flavor of cinnamon or the crispiness of the chips.
If your dog is particularly picky, you can always skip the cinnamon or adjust the recipe slightly to suit their preferences. Remember, it’s all about tailoring treats to your dog’s needs and tastes!
Cooking Techniques That Will Work For This Recipe
For this recipe, baking is the best method to get that perfect crispy texture. You could try dehydrating the apple chips, but that would take much longer and might not produce the same crispy result.
The oven gives you great control over the temperature and ensures that the apples dry out without burning. Low and slow is the way to go with these chips!
Portion Control: How Much Is Too Much?
While these apple chips are healthy, they’re still a treat and should be given in moderation. For small dogs, 1-2 chips per day is plenty, while larger dogs can handle a few more. The key here is to use these chips as an occasional treat, not a meal replacement. Always adjust portion sizes based on your dog’s activity level and overall diet.
Serving Suggestion
These apple chips make an excellent training treat or reward for good behavior. They’re perfect for breaking into smaller pieces and using during training sessions. However, remember they shouldn’t replace your dog’s regular meals. Use them as a tasty incentive or a special snack!
FAQs Section
1. Can I make apple chips without coconut oil?
Yes! If your dog doesn’t tolerate coconut oil or you’re out of stock, you can substitute with another dog-safe oil like olive oil or sunflower oil. Just keep in mind that coconut oil does provide a unique nutritional benefit, so the texture and health benefits might vary slightly with other oils.
2. Can I store apple chips for later?
Absolutely! Once cooled, store the apple chips in an airtight container. They should stay fresh for about a week at room temperature. For longer storage, you can keep them in the fridge for up to two weeks. If they lose some crispiness, you can pop them back in the oven for a few minutes to restore that crunch.
3. Can I use other spices in these apple chips?
While cinnamon is safe and adds a lovely flavor, it’s best to avoid other spices unless you’re certain they’re dog-safe. Some spices, like nutmeg, can be toxic to dogs. Stick with cinnamon or leave out the spices altogether to keep it simple and safe.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it Apple Chips Dog Treats: a simple, healthy, and tasty snack that your dog will absolutely love. It’s not as complicated as it may seem when you follow these easy steps.
Now, I want to hear from you!
Have you ever made homemade dog treats before? If so, how did your pup like them? Feel free to share your experience or thoughts in the comments section below. I’d love to hear from you!