Is there anything more heartwarming than the sight of a wagging tail? My dog, Buddy, thinks not—especially when he catches a whiff of bacon sizzling on the stove. These peanut butter bacon dog treats?
A combination of savory and nutty that turns my kitchen into a canine paradise. It’s like a Sunday brunch for dogs, without the mimosas or awkward small talk.
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and prepare two large baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or silicone mats.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, milk, and egg using a wooden spoon or silicone spatula. Gradually add flour and baking powder, then transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it with your hands to incorporate the flour.
- Mix in the oats and chopped bacon until the dough becomes thick and cohesive.
- Roll the dough out to a 1/4-inch thickness using a floured rolling pin, and cut it into desired shapes with cookie cutters.
- Arrange the cut shapes on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 18-20 minutes until the bottoms are lightly browned.
- Remove from the oven, flip the treats over, and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes.
- Allow the treats to cool completely before serving them to your dog. Store any leftovers at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerate for up to two weeks.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (255g) natural creamy peanut butter
- 3/4 cup (180ml) nonfat milk
- 1 large egg or 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2 cups (244g) whole wheat flour, spooned and leveled
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/3 cup (28g) oats
- 2–3 strips cooked bacon, chopped
FAQ
- Are these homemade dog treats safe for all dogs?
- It’s important to consult with your vet regarding any potential allergies your dog may have to the ingredients used in these treats. The recipe includes whole wheat flour, egg, milk, oats, peanut butter, and bacon, which are generally safe but should be verified with your veterinarian.
- Can I substitute any ingredients if my dog has specific dietary needs?
- Yes, substitutions can be made. For example, you can use unsweetened applesauce instead of an egg. However, it’s best to check with your vet to ensure any substitutions align with your dog’s dietary requirements.
- How should I store these dog treats?
- The treats can be kept at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or freeze them for up to two months. Dogs often enjoy them right from the freezer as well.
- What type of oats should be used in this recipe?
- You can use either old-fashioned whole rolled oats or quick oats. Both work well in this recipe.
- Can I use a different type of flour if I don’t have whole wheat flour?
- Yes, unbleached all-purpose flour can be used as a substitute, but whole wheat flour is recommended for its additional health benefits. Always consult with your vet for any allergies your dog might have.
Tips
- Check for Allergies: Before you start, consult with your vet about possible allergies your dog might have to any of the ingredients, such as peanut butter or wheat flour.
- Ease of Working with Dough: The dough can be quite thick and challenging to handle. Use your hands to mix and shape the dough, and a floured rolling pin to roll it out to the desired thickness.
- Baking Consistency: The treats don’t spread much while baking; they only puff up slightly. Therefore, you can place them close together on your baking sheet without worrying about them melding into each other.
- Storage and Freezing: To extend shelf life and maintain freshness, store leftover treats at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerate for up to two weeks. For long-term storage, freeze the treats for up to two months. Dogs typically enjoy them straight from the freezer.
Equipment
- Silicone Baking Mats or Parchment Paper
- Glass Mixing Bowl
- Silicone Spatula or Wooden Spoon
- Rolling Pin
- Cookie Cutters (in various shapes like bone, heart, etc.)
