Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Mix the wet ingredients — In a medium bowl, combine applesauce, peanut butter, egg, and water. Whisk or stir with a fork until smooth and creamy.
- Add the dry ingredients — Add the whole wheat flour and rolled oats. Stir slowly until it comes together, then knead by hand into a soft, pliable, non-sticky dough. Add water a teaspoon at a time if too dry.
- Roll and cut the dough — Dust your counter with flour and roll dough to about ¼ inch thick. Cut into shapes with cookie cutters bones, paws, or hearts all work well.
- Bake — Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Bake 20–25 minutes, until golden at the edges. (18 min for softer treats, up to 27 min for extra crunch.)
- Cool completely — Transfer to a wire rack and let cool fully before storing or serving.
Notes
Always use unsweetened applesauce added sugar isn't safe for dogs.
Double-check your peanut butter label it must be xylitol-free, as xylitol is extremely toxic to dogs.
Storage: airtight jar at room temperature up to 7 days, refrigerate for 2–3 weeks, or freeze up to 3 months (thaw before serving). If treats lose crispness, refresh in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes.
Flavor variations: swap in mashed banana, pumpkin purée, grated carrot, or a bit of shredded low-fat cheese for different takes on the base recipe.
Avoid overmixing the dough gentle mixing keeps the treats tender.