If you’re looking to pamper your furry friend with a wholesome, tasty snack, this Homemade Pumpkin Peanut Butter Dog Treats Recipe is an absolute winner. It combines the natural sweetness of pumpkin with the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter to create treats that dogs adore and that provide nourishing ingredients you can trust. Plus, these treats are made with simple, pantry-friendly items, making them easy and satisfying to whip up in no time at all. Your pup will be begging for more once they get a taste of these delightful bites!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity of this ingredient list fool you — each component plays a vital role in the texture, taste, and appeal of these dog treats. From the wholesome whole wheat flour for structure to the flavorful peanut butter that adds richness, every element counts towards making these treats irresistible.
- Whole wheat flour: A great source of fiber and provides the perfect base to hold the treats together.
- Eggs: Act as natural binders to keep all the ingredients perfectly combined.
- Canned pumpkin: Packed with vitamins and fiber, it adds moisture and a slightly sweet flavor dogs love.
- Creamy peanut butter: Adds richness and protein, making every bite absolutely delicious.
- Salt: Enhances the overall flavor, but just a small amount to keep it safe for dogs.
- Cinnamon: A gentle spice that gives a warm note without overpowering the natural flavors.
How to Make Homemade Pumpkin Peanut Butter Dog Treats Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Wet Ingredients
Start by combining the eggs, canned pumpkin, and creamy peanut butter in a large mixing bowl. Stir them together until you get a smooth, creamy mixture that will be the flavorful heart of your treats.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, salt, and cinnamon. Making sure the dry ingredients are evenly mixed ensures your treats have a consistent taste and texture.
Step 3: Create the Dough
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until the dough starts to come together. It should be firm but still pliable, not too sticky. If it feels too dry, a splash of water can help bring it to the right consistency.
Step 4: Roll Out and Cut
Sprinkle some flour on your work surface, then roll the dough out to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters or simply a knife to cut the dough into fun shapes or bite-size pieces that your dog can easily enjoy.
Step 5: Bake the Treats
Place the cutouts on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 35 minutes. Bake until the edges are golden and the treats feel firm to the touch—this means they will have the perfect crunch without being too hard.
Step 6: Cool Completely
Allow the treats to cool fully before serving or storing. This step is crucial so they firm up properly and are safe for your pup to eat.
How to Serve Homemade Pumpkin Peanut Butter Dog Treats Recipe
Garnishes
Since these treats are made for your dog’s pleasure, keep garnishes simple and safe. A light sprinkle of crushed freeze-dried liver or a dusting of finely chopped parsley can add a little extra flavor and nutrition that dogs adore.
Side Dishes
While these treats shine on their own, you can serve them alongside your dog’s regular meals as a special surprise or use them as training rewards to reinforce good behavior. They’re a great healthy alternative to commercial snacks.
Creative Ways to Present
Try placing a few treats in a small reusable snack bag or a decorated jar as a gift for your dog-loving friends. You can also thread several treats on a sturdy string for a fun chew toy that doubles as a tasty snack.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. This keeps them fresh and crunchy, ensuring every bite tastes as good as when they came out of the oven.
Freezing
For longer storage, pop the treats into a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. When you want a treat, just thaw a few at room temperature and you’re ready to delight your dog all over again.
Reheating
While reheating isn’t necessary, if you prefer to give your dog a warm treat, you can heat a few seconds in the microwave until just warmed through—but avoid overheating to preserve texture and flavor.
FAQs
Are these treats safe for all dog breeds?
Yes, these treats use simple, dog-safe ingredients suitable for dogs of all sizes. Just be mindful of portion size, especially for smaller breeds.
Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
Almond butter can be used if your dog isn’t allergic, but make sure it’s free from xylitol and added sugars, which are harmful to dogs.
What if my dog has wheat allergies? Is there an alternative flour?
You can substitute whole wheat flour for oat or rice flour, but this may slightly change the texture. Always observe how your dog reacts to new ingredients.
How long do these treats last?
Stored properly in an airtight container, these treats stay fresh for about a week at room temperature and up to 3 months when frozen.
Can I add other ingredients like honey or fruits?
Honey and certain fruits can be added but always check that they are dog-safe and use them sparingly to avoid upsetting your dog’s stomach.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly rewarding about baking your own dog treats, and this Homemade Pumpkin Peanut Butter Dog Treats Recipe is a fantastic place to start. Not only will your pup adore the tasty flavors, but you’ll also feel great knowing exactly what goes into every bite. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat your furry best friend to something homemade and full of love.
Print
Homemade Pumpkin Peanut Butter Dog Treats Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 48 treats
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These homemade dog treats are a wholesome, tasty snack that combines nutritious ingredients like whole wheat flour, pumpkin, and peanut butter. Perfect for rewarding your furry friend with a healthy, homemade alternative to store-bought treats.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup canned pumpkin
- ¼ cup creamy peanut butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready once the dough is prepared.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, salt, and cinnamon, stirring well to evenly distribute the spices.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, canned pumpkin, and creamy peanut butter until smooth and well blended.
- Make the dough: Gradually add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring continuously until a stiff dough forms.
- Roll out dough: Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thickness, ensuring it’s even so treats bake uniformly.
- Cut out treats: Use a cookie cutter or knife to cut the dough into bite-sized shapes suitable for your dog.
- Bake treats: Arrange the cutouts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them slightly apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until golden brown and firm.
- Cool and store: Remove from the oven, let the treats cool completely on a wire rack. Store them in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
Notes
- Ensure the peanut butter contains no xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
- Whole wheat flour can be substituted with oat flour for gluten-sensitive dogs.
- Always introduce new treats to your dog in moderation and monitor for adverse reactions.
- These treats keep well at room temperature but can also be frozen for longer storage.
