How to Make Homemade Peanut Butter and Applesauce Dog Treats: A Simple and Healthy Recipe

If you’re looking for a nutritious, homemade reward for your furry friend, these Peanut Butter and Applesauce Dog Treats are a wonderful choice. Crafted with wholesome pantry ingredients, these treats offer the perfect blend of flavor and nutrition without any artificial additives or preservatives. Ideal for dog owners seeking to provide their pets with the very best, this easy recipe is suitable for dogs of all ages and sizes. Follow this detailed guide to create a batch of treats your dog will love.

Overview of Homemade Peanut Butter and Applesauce Dog Treats

Peanut Butter and Applesauce Dog Treats combine two canine favorites into one wholesome snack. Made with natural peanut butter, unsweetened applesauce, whole wheat flour, and a touch of oat flour, these treats deliver both flavor and nutritional benefits. The dough is easy to work with, making it perfect for baking into fun shapes with cookie cutters. Rich in fiber and protein, these treats support healthy digestion and sustained energy levels. Whether you’re rewarding good behavior or just showing your dog some extra love, these treats are an excellent addition to your pet’s snack rotation.

Ingredients of Homemade Peanut Butter and Applesauce Dog Treats

• 1 cup whole wheat flour (see notes for grain-free alternatives)
• 1 cup old-fashioned oats or oat flour
• ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
• ½ cup natural creamy peanut butter (xylitol-free, unsalted)
• 1 large egg
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
• 2–4 tablespoons water, as needed

Ingredient Notes:

• Always use xylitol-free peanut butter, as xylitol is toxic to dogs.
• Unsweetened applesauce is recommended to avoid added sugars.
• Whole wheat flour adds fiber; for grain-sensitive dogs, substitute with chickpea flour or oat flour.
• Cinnamon is safe for most dogs, but optional.

How To Make Peanut Butter and Applesauce Dog Treats

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, unsweetened applesauce, and egg. Whisk together until smooth and fully combined.
3. Add Dry Ingredients:
   Stir in the whole wheat flour, oat flour, and optional cinnamon. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Adjust Consistency:
   If the dough is too crumbly, add water a tablespoon at a time until it holds together but isn’t sticky. The dough should be soft and easy to knead.
5. Shape the Treats:
   Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll to ¼-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes, or slice into squares for simplicity.
6. Bake:
   Arrange the treats on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 16–20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the treats are dry to the touch. For crispier treats, turn off the oven and let them sit inside with the door slightly ajar for an additional 20–30 minutes.
7. Cool:
   Remove from the oven and allow treats to cool completely on a wire rack before serving to your dog.

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, applesauce, and egg.
3. Stir in flour, oats, and cinnamon (if using).
4. Add water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until a soft, kneadable dough forms.
5. Roll dough to ¼-inch thickness and cut shapes.
6. Place treats on baking sheet.
7. Bake 16–20 minutes, until lightly golden. For extra crunch, leave treats in the oven (off) for 30 more minutes.
8. Cool completely before storing in an airtight container.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 16–20 minutes (plus optional 20–30 minutes for crunchier treats)
• Total Time: 30–40 minutes

Nutrition Information (Per Treat, Approximate)

• Calories: 35
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 1.2g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 0.6g
• No added sugar, no preservatives

Note: Treats are for supplemental feeding only and not a meal replacement.

Serving of Homemade Peanut Butter and Applesauce Dog Treats

Once the treats are cool, serve one as a reward or training incentive. Break into smaller pieces for puppies or small dogs. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months—thaw before serving.

Recipe Card:

Tips for Success

• Always check peanut butter ingredients to ensure it’s free from xylitol.
• If your dog has allergies, substitute oat or chickpea flour for wheat flour.
• For a special touch, drizzle the cooled treats with extra peanut butter or dip in unsweetened carob for a dog-safe “icing.”
• Let your dog try a small piece first to check for sensitivities.

Conclusion

Homemade Peanut Butter and Applesauce Dog Treats offer an easy, affordable, and healthy way to spoil your canine companion. With natural ingredients and a simple process, you can feel confident about the quality of your dog’s snacks. Bake a batch today and enjoy the tail wags and happy faces that follow!