If you are looking for a delightful way to spoil your furry friend, this Pumpkin Peanut Butter Dog Treats Recipe is the perfect homemade option. Combining creamy peanut butter and nutrient-rich pumpkin puree with wholesome oat flour, these treats are not only irresistibly tasty but also packed with natural goodness. Whether you want to reward your pup after a walk or just show a little extra love, these treats are simple to make, healthy, and sure to become a favorite in your dog’s snack rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Pumpkin Peanut Butter Dog Treats Recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Each one plays an important role whether it’s adding flavor, texture, or nutritional value.
- Oat flour (2 cups): Adds a hearty, gluten-free base that’s easy on your dog’s digestion and provides fiber.
- Pumpkin puree (¾ cup): Naturally rich in vitamins and fiber, pumpkin helps support a healthy digestive system and adds a subtle sweetness.
- Peanut butter (¼ cup): Use smooth or chunky, but make sure it’s free of xylitol; it adds rich flavor and healthy fats that dogs love.
- Chicken broth (¼ cup): Adds moisture and a savory taste, making the treats extra palatable.
- One large egg: Acts as a binder, helping all the ingredients come together for the perfect chewy texture.
- Baking powder (½ tsp): Gives just a bit of lift to create a tender crunch without being tough on your pup’s teeth.
How to Make Pumpkin Peanut Butter Dog Treats Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F to create the perfect baking environment. While it heats, you can take some whole oats and pulse them in a high-speed blender until you have about 2 cups of oat flour. This homemade step ensures freshness and a nice texture in your final treats.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, peanut butter, chicken broth, and egg until you have a smooth, creamy mixture. This blend forms the flavorful core of our treats and binds everything together beautifully.
Step 3: Combine with Dry Ingredients
Next, stir in your freshly ground oat flour and baking powder. Mix well until you get a consistent dough that’s easy to handle but not too sticky. The oat flour brings that wholesome texture, while the baking powder gives a little lift for a delightful bite.
Step 4: Shape the Dough
Divide the dough into two equal balls to make rolling easier. Lightly dust your cutting board with oat flour or all-purpose flour to prevent sticking, then roll one ball out to about ¼ inch thickness. The thickness is key for baked dog treats to be sturdy but still easy to chew.
Step 5: Cut and Bake
Time for the fun part! Use dog bone or paw-shaped cookie cutters to create adorable and thematic treats. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving around half an inch between each. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the cookies turn firm and slightly golden around the edges.
Step 6: Cool Before Serving
Remove from the oven and let the treats cool completely. This cooling step is crucial, as it lets the cookies set and become easier for your pup to enjoy safely.
How to Serve Pumpkin Peanut Butter Dog Treats Recipe
Garnishes
While these treats are delicious on their own, you can add a little festive flair by lightly brushing them with a small smear of peanut butter or sprinkling finely chopped parsley on top. This not only makes them look more appealing but adds a fresh taste that some dogs adore.
Side Dishes
Though treats are meant to be snacks, pairing these homemade delights with your dog’s regular meal, such as their favorite kibble or wet food, can make mealtime more exciting. The natural pumpkin flavor complements many dog foods nicely.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions or just because, try arranging the treats in a jar with a cute label or package them in a little gift bag for your pup’s friends. You can even surprise your dog by hiding treats around the yard for a fun and rewarding game of hide and seek.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These homemade Pumpkin Peanut Butter Dog Treats Recipe treats keep wonderfully fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for about one week. This way, you can make a batch ahead and have them ready whenever your pup deserves a little extra love.
Freezing
If you want to keep treats on hand for longer, freezing is an excellent option. Simply freeze the baked cookies in a single layer on a tray, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay good for up to three months and thaw quickly at room temperature.
Reheating
To refresh frozen or leftover treats, warm them gently in the oven at a low temperature (around 250°F) for a few minutes to bring back their fresh-baked aroma and slightly crisp texture. Be sure they cool before giving them to your dog.
FAQs
Is peanut butter safe for all dogs?
Generally, peanut butter is safe for dogs in moderation as long as it doesn’t contain xylitol or added sugars. Always choose a natural, dog-friendly peanut butter to avoid any health risks.
Can I substitute oat flour with another flour?
Yes, you can substitute with whole wheat flour if your dog isn’t sensitive to gluten, but oat flour adds a nice texture and is often easier on digestion for many pups.
How long do these treats last?
Stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these treats stay fresh for about one week. They also freeze well if you’d like to extend their shelf life.
What if my dog has a peanut allergy?
If your dog is allergic to peanuts, you can try substituting with pumpkin puree mixed with unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana for a similar texture and sweetness.
Can these treats be given to puppies?
Yes, these treats are generally safe for puppies but always feed treats in moderation and consult your vet if you have any concerns about new ingredients in a young dog’s diet.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely hope you and your furry companion enjoy making and snacking on these Pumpkin Peanut Butter Dog Treats Recipe as much as I do. They’re such a comforting, wholesome way to show your dog extra care and affection with ingredients you can trust. Give this recipe a try, and watch those tail wags grow even happier!
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Pumpkin Peanut Butter Dog Treats Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings
- Category: Dog Treats
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Pumpkin Peanut Butter Dog Treats are a healthy and delicious homemade snack for your furry friend. Made with wholesome ingredients like oat flour, pumpkin puree, and peanut butter, they are easy to prepare and baked to perfection. Perfect for rewarding your dog with a nutritious treat that supports their health and happiness.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups oat flour (or old-fashioned oats)
- ½ tsp. baking powder
Wet Ingredients
- ¾ cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
- ¼ cup peanut butter (smooth or chunky)
- ¼ cup chicken broth (reduced sodium or regular)
- 1 large egg
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the treats evenly.
- Make Oat Flour: Add whole oats to a high-speed blender and process for 10-20 seconds until you have a fine oat flour. Measure out 2 cups for the recipe.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, peanut butter, chicken broth, and egg until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Stir in the oat flour and baking powder into the wet mixture. Mix thoroughly until a dough forms.
- Divide Dough: Divide the dough into two equal balls to make rolling easier.
- Prepare Rolling Surface: Lightly dust a cutting board with additional oat flour or all-purpose flour to prevent sticking.
- Roll Out Dough: Place one ball of dough on the floured surface and roll it out with a rolling pin to about ¼-inch thickness.
- Cut Shapes: Use dog bone or paw-shaped cookie cutters to cut out shapes from the rolled dough.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the cut treats on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about ½-inch apart to allow for even baking.
- Bake: Bake the treats in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until they become firm to the touch and slightly golden.
- Cool Down: Remove the treats from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack before serving.
- Store Treats: Store the cooled dog treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Notes
- You can make your own pumpkin puree by baking and mashing fresh pumpkin if canned is not available.
- Ensure that the peanut butter used does not contain xylitol or added salt, which are harmful to dogs.
- These treats can be frozen for longer storage if desired; thaw before serving.
- Oat flour can be substituted with finely ground whole oats for a gluten-free option.
- Always consult your veterinarian before introducing new treats to your dog’s diet.
