Apple Peanut Butter Dog Treats: A Healthy Treat for Your Pup

Let’s be honest when it comes to dog treats, the store-bought ones don’t always cut it. Maybe you’re concerned about the ingredients, or maybe you just want to treat your dog to something homemade and full of love.

Whatever the reason, making your own dog treats is a fantastic way to show your pup just how much you care. I totally get it you want something easy, delicious, and nutritious that your dog will love. And guess what? That’s exactly what I’m here to teach you!

I’ll walk you through how to make Apple Peanut Butter Dog Treats that are not only tasty but healthy too. So, no more mystery ingredients or high prices just simple, wholesome goodness that’s ready to serve up in no time. Let’s get started!

Why This Specific Recipe Is Worth Making

When it comes to making dog treats at home, we want to make sure we’re not only giving them something they’ll love but also something that’s good for them.

This Apple Peanut Butter Dog Treat recipe hits the mark perfectly! Let me break down why it’s worth making:

Health Benefits of This Recipe

Apples

Are a wonderful snack for dogs. They’re not only low in calories but also packed with fiber and vitamins, making them a great way to keep your dog’s digestive system in check.

The high fiber content helps regulate your dog’s digestive health, and the vitamin A and vitamin C support their immune system. Plus, apples contain antioxidants that are fantastic for keeping your dog’s coat shiny and healthy.

Peanut Butter

Let’s talk about peanut butter a fan favorite for both humans and dogs. Peanut butter is not only delicious but also offers a variety of nutritional benefits for dogs.

• It’s a great source of protein, which helps in building and maintaining muscle mass. It also contains healthy fats that support your dog’s skin and coat, making them look shiny and feeling soft.
• When using peanut butter for your dog’s treats, be sure to choose a natural variety that doesn’t contain xylitol (a sweetener that is toxic to dogs).

The peanut butter provides that creamy texture dogs adore, and when combined with apples, it creates a treat that’s hard to resist.

Oats

Oats are another key ingredient in these treats, and for good reason. Oats are an excellent source of soluble fiber, which is great for your dog’s digestive health.

• They also provide essential vitamins like B-vitamins, which can help support energy levels. The fiber in oats helps to slow down digestion, keeping your dog feeling fuller for longer.
• Oats are also a hypoallergenic ingredient, making them suitable for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies.

So, when you’re making these treats, you’re ensuring your dog gets a wholesome and gentle option to munch on.

How It’s a Simple Way to Save Money.

Let’s face it buying high-quality dog treats can get expensive. But when you make these Apple Peanut Butter Dog Treats at home, you’re not only saving money, but you’re also able to control what goes into the treats.

Recipe Section: Apple Peanut Butter Dog Treats

Now that you’re all in on the benefits, let’s dive into the recipe itself. I promise this will be a fun, easy, and rewarding process. So, let’s get started!

Prep Time & Cook Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

That’s right – in just half an hour, your dog will be devouring these delicious treats! You’ll be surprised by how quick and easy it is to whip up a batch of these goodies.

Tools Needed

• Mixing bowl: For combining all your ingredients.
• Baking sheet: To place your treats on while they bake.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat: To prevent sticking.
• Cookie cutter (optional): To make fun, shaped treats (dog bones, stars, etc.).
• Spoon: To mix and scoop the dough.
• Rolling pin (optional): If you prefer rolling out the dough before cutting into shapes.

You don’t need any fancy kitchen tools for this recipe – just the basics. But if you want to make the treats even more fun, grab some cookie cutters in shapes your dog will love.

Ingredients Needed

• 1 cup whole wheat flour (or oat flour for easier digestion)
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup peanut butter (unsweetened and xylitol-free)
• 1/4 cup applesauce (unsweetened)
• 1/4 cup grated apple (peeled)
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

For substitutes:

• If your dog has a wheat sensitivity, try oat flour, almond flour, or chickpea flour.
• For peanut butter allergies, sunflower seed butter works wonderfully as a replacement.

How to Make This Recipe Step by Step

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This will prevent the treats from sticking while baking and make cleanup a breeze!

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, applesauce, grated apple, and egg. Stir well until all the ingredients are smoothly mixed together. The peanut butter will add a creamy texture, while the applesauce gives it a slight sweetness.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

Next, add the flour, oats, and cinnamon (if you’re using it) to the wet ingredients. Mix everything together until you have a dough-like consistency. If the dough feels a little too sticky, you can add a bit more flour, but it should be soft and easy to handle.

Step 4: Roll and Cut the Dough

If you want your treats to have a fun shape, roll the dough out on a floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter to create fun shapes like dog bones, stars, or even circles. If you prefer simple, no-fuss treats, you can also roll the dough into small balls and flatten them with a fork.

Step 5: Bake the Treats

Place your shaped dough onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary depending on the thickness of your treats. When they’re done, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely before serving.

Feeding Size: How to Serve the Treats

When serving these treats, portion sizes should depend on your dog’s size and breed. For small dogs, break the treats into halves or quarters.

For larger dogs, one whole treat should suffice as a snack. Always monitor your dog while they’re enjoying their treats and adjust the serving size accordingly.

Storage Tips

Once your treats have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, store them in the fridge for up to two weeks, or freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to thaw them before serving.

Nutritional Values Estimated

• Calories: Approximately 45-60 calories per treat (depending on size)
• Protein: 2-3 grams
• Fat: 3-4 grams
• Fiber: 1-2 grams

These treats are packed with good stuff, and the portion size ensures that your dog enjoys the flavor while also getting beneficial nutrients.

Tips for Perfect Treats

• If the dough is too dry, add a little bit of water or more applesauce to get the right consistency.
• For crunchy treats, bake them a little longer to achieve that perfect crispiness.
• Want to make the treats extra fancy? Add a small drizzle of melted peanut butter on top before serving!

Safety Notes

• Always check your peanut butter for xylitol. Even small amounts of xylitol can be toxic to dogs.
• Ensure the treats are cooled completely before feeding them to your dog to avoid any burns.
• If your dog has allergies to any of the ingredients, make sure to use the suggested substitutes.

Why These Ingredients Work for Dogs

Each of the ingredients in these Apple Peanut Butter Dog Treats serves a purpose. Apples offer fiber and vitamins that support digestion and immune health. Peanut butter gives your dog protein and healthy fats to keep them strong and energized. Oats provide soluble fiber for digestive health, while cinnamon offers a little antioxidant boost.

These treats are more than just delicious they’re packed with nutrients that benefit your dog in every bite.

Trouble Shooting: Recipe Didn’t Work After Following Guide Above

It’s always frustrating when you follow a recipe to the end, and things just don’t turn out the way you expected. Don’t worry I’ve been there too! Here are a few troubleshooting tips to help you get your Apple Peanut Butter Dog Treats just right:

Dough Too Sticky: If the dough is too sticky to work with, it might be because there’s too much wet ingredient or not enough flour. You can add a little more flour (preferably oat or whole wheat) to balance things out. Just sprinkle in small amounts and mix until the dough is easy to handle.

Dough Too Dry: If your dough is too crumbly or dry, simply add a splash of water or extra applesauce to bring it together. Sometimes, depending on the flour you use, the dough can vary in moisture content, so don’t be afraid to adjust as needed.

Treats Too Soft After Baking: If the treats didn’t firm up as much as you hoped, you might want to leave them in the oven a little longer or decrease the size of the shapes. The smaller they are, the quicker they will bake and firm up.

Over-baked and Too Hard: It’s easy to overdo it, especially when baking. If the treats come out too hard or burnt, check your oven temperature. It’s a good idea to use an oven thermometer since temperatures can vary, and even a few degrees too high can turn your treats into rocks.

Health Concerns: Avoiding Harmful Ingredients in This Recipe

I know you want the best for your dog, so let’s make sure we avoid any harmful ingredients when making these treats! Here’s what you should always keep an eye on:

Xylitol: This is a no-go in any dog treat! Xylitol is a sugar substitute found in some peanut butters and other foods. Even small amounts of xylitol can be toxic to dogs, so always check the label of your peanut butter before using it.

Sugar and Artificial Sweeteners: Some store-bought applesauce can have added sugar or artificial sweeteners that aren’t safe for your dog. Always choose unsweetened applesauce when making the treats.

Choking Hazards: Be mindful of any added ingredients, like nuts or seeds, that might pose a choking hazard. Stick to the basics and keep it simple for your dog’s safety.

Flour Sensitivity: Some dogs may have sensitivities to wheat or grains. If your dog has a gluten intolerance, opt for oat flour or chickpea flour as an alternative.

Cost: How Affordable Is This Recipe?

Let’s talk about the wallet making these Apple Peanut Butter Dog Treats is a total win in terms of affordability. Here’s why:

• Bulk Ingredients: Flour, oats, and peanut butter are ingredients you can buy in bulk and use for multiple batches. The overall cost of making these treats is much lower than buying fancy store-bought snacks for your pup.
• No Fancy Additives: Since you’re controlling the ingredients, you won’t need to buy anything that’s overpriced or unnecessary. This is a simple, wholesome recipe that doesn’t require any expensive dog-specific products.
• Long-Lasting: These treats last quite a while when stored properly, so you’re getting a lot of value for your money. One batch can last you a good amount of time, depending on your dog’s size and how often you give them treats.

Convenience of this Recipe: How Simple is it to Make?

You’re going to love how easy and straightforward this recipe is. The ingredients are simple, the process is quick, and there’s minimal clean-up. Here’s why it’s so convenient:

Few Ingredients: There’s no need to run to specialty stores for fancy ingredients. Most of the items you probably already have in your pantry.

Short Prep Time: From start to finish, you can have these treats ready in under 30 minutes. So, even if you’re busy, you can quickly whip up a fresh batch of treats for your pup.

No Complicated Equipment: You don’t need any fancy mixers or blenders. All you need is a bowl, a spoon, a baking sheet, and maybe a rolling pin if you’re into shaping the treats.

Shelf Lifespan: How Long Before It Goes Bad?

You want these treats to last, right? Let’s talk about shelf life:

Room Temperature: When stored in an airtight container, the treats will last for about 5 to 7 days at room temperature. This is perfect if you plan on using them up fairly quickly.

Refrigeration: For an extra boost of freshness, store the treats in the fridge, where they’ll last up to two weeks.

Freezing: Got more treats than your dog can handle in one sitting? No problem. You can freeze these treats for up to three months! Just thaw them out when you’re ready to serve. It’s a great way to make a big batch and save them for later.

Will All Dogs Like This Recipe?

While these treats are packed with flavors that most dogs will enjoy, every pup is unique. Some dogs might be pickier than others, but there’s a good chance they’ll enjoy the sweet and savory combo of apple and peanut butter. If you’re worried, you can always try a small amount first and see how they react.

• Smaller Dogs: These treats are soft enough that smaller dogs should be able to enjoy them without any trouble, though you may want to break them into smaller pieces.
• Picky Eaters: If your dog is picky about textures, you could try modifying the recipe by adding a little more applesauce or blending the dough for a smoother consistency.

Safe Alternatives for Ingredients Used in This Recipe

Not all dogs are the same, so it’s important to have some ingredient alternatives if needed. Here are some substitutions:

Peanut Butter Alternatives: If your dog has a peanut allergy, try sunflower seed butter or cashew butter. Both are safe for dogs and still provide that creamy texture.

Flour Substitutes: If your dog is sensitive to wheat, try oat flour, almond flour, or chickpea flour. These flours are easier on your dog’s digestive system and still create a great texture for the treats.

Applesauce: If your dog can’t tolerate applesauce, you can replace it with mashed sweet potato or pumpkin puree, both of which are easy on your dog’s stomach and add some delicious flavor.

Cooking Techniques That Will Work for This Recipe: Baking, Freezing, or Dehydrating

Since this recipe includes flour, baking and dehydrating are the best methods for preparing these treats.

• Baking: The best way to cook these treats is in the oven. Baking at 350°F for 18-20 minutes ensures that the treats firm up nicely and are safe for your dog to eat.
• Dehydrating: If you have a dehydrator, you can also dehydrate these treats for a chewier texture. Just be sure to monitor the treats closely to avoid over-drying them.
• Freezing: Freezing is perfect for storing large batches of treats, but it’s not an ideal cooking method. If you want fresh treats right away, stick to baking or dehydrating.

Portion Control: How Much Is Too Much?

When it comes to treats, moderation is key. These Apple Peanut Butter Dog Treats are great, but they should be given in moderation, just like any treat:

• Small Dogs: Start with half a treat, and see how your dog reacts. You can gradually increase the serving size if they enjoy it without any issues.
• Medium to Large Dogs: One treat should be plenty for a medium or large dog. Always keep in mind that treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake.
• Avoid Overindulgence: Too many treats can upset your dog’s stomach or contribute to weight gain. It’s best to save these for special occasions or as part of their regular training routine.

Can I use a different type of flour in this recipe?

Yes, absolutely! If your dog has a sensitivity to wheat, you can substitute oat flour, chickpea flour, or even almond flour. These alternatives are safe and will still give you great results in terms of texture and flavor.

Can I make these treats for my puppy?

While these treats are suitable for most dogs, you should always check with your vet before introducing a new snack to a puppy’s diet. Make sure that all ingredients used are safe for your puppy’s age and size.

What if my dog doesn’t like peanut butter?

Not a problem! If your dog is picky about peanut butter, try substituting sunflower seed butter or another dog-safe nut butter. You can also add other flavorings like a little bit of chicken broth or pumpkin to make the treats more appealing.

Final Thoughts

So yeah, that’s how you make Apple Peanut Butter Dog Treats – simple, healthy, and packed with love for your furry friend. It doesn’t have to be complicated if you follow the steps I’ve shared.

Now I’d love to hear from you. Have you made homemade dog treats before? If so, how did they turn out? Let me know in the comments below!