Healthy Pumpkin & Oatmeal Dog Snack Sticks Recipe
🎉 Introduction
Treat your furry friend to these healthy pumpkin and oatmeal dog snack sticks! With simple and natural ingredients, these easy-to-make treats are perfect for dogs of all breeds and sizes. Packed with nutritious pumpkin, wholesome oats, and delicious peanut butter, these chewy sticks will surely make your pup’s tail wag with joy. Let’s get started on creating a delightful snack that your dog will love!
🧰 Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutter or knife
🛒 Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (plain, unsweetened)
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/4 cup natural peanut butter (no xylitol)
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 1-2 tablespoons water (if needed)
👩🍳 Directions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, rolled oats, whole wheat flour, natural peanut butter, and egg. Mix well until all ingredients are fully combined.
Step 3: If the mixture seems too dry, add water one tablespoon at a time until the dough is slightly sticky but still manageable.
Step 4: Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness using a rolling pin.
Step 5: Use a cookie cutter or knife to cut the dough into stick shapes or your desired size.
Step 6: Place the cut-out snacks onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space in between each piece.
Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the treats are firm and lightly golden.
Step 8: Once baked, remove the snack sticks from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.
🍽️ Servings & Timing
Yields about 20-25 snack sticks. Prep time: 15 minutes, Bake time: 30 minutes, Total time: 45 minutes.
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled snack sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze the treats for up to 2 months. Always remember these are occasional treats and should be given in moderation.
🥄 Variations
- Add 1/4 cup grated carrot for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Substitute whole wheat flour with oat flour for a gluten-free option.
- Incorporate a handful of blueberries for a fruity twist.
❓ FAQs
Q: Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
A: Yes, you can use cooked and pureed fresh pumpkin, just ensure it is unsweetened and free from additives.
Q: Is cinnamon safe for dogs?
A: Yes, in small amounts, cinnamon is safe for dogs, but it’s optional in this recipe.
Q: How do I know if my dog is allergic to any ingredients?
A: Introduce new treats gradually and monitor for any adverse reactions. Consult your veterinarian if you have concerns.
Q: Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
A: Yes, as long as it does not contain xylitol, almond butter is a good alternative.
Q: What if my dough is too sticky?
A: You can add a little more flour to the mixture until it reaches a manageable consistency.
Q: Are these treats suitable for puppies?
A: Yes, but make sure to cut them into smaller pieces for young pups.
Q: Can I bake these treats in a dehydrator?
A: Yes, you can dehydrate them at a low temperature until fully dry.
Q: How can I tell when the treats are done baking?
A: The treats should be firm to the touch and slightly golden in color when done.
Q: Can I use rolled oats instead of quick oats?
A: Yes, rolled oats work perfectly in this recipe.
Q: Should I serve these sticks with anything?
A: These treats are tasty on their own, but they can be served alongside a small amount of yogurt as a dip!
🏁 Conclusion
These healthy pumpkin and oatmeal dog snack sticks are a delightful way to show your furry friend how much you care. Made with simple, dog-safe ingredients, they are not only tasty but also nutritious. Remember to introduce new treats gradually and always consult your veterinarian if your dog has any health concerns. Your pup will be wagging their tail with excitement for these homemade snacks!
Healthy Pumpkin & Oatmeal Dog Snack Sticks Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, rolled oats, whole wheat flour, natural peanut butter, and egg. Mix well until all ingredients are fully combined.
- If the mixture seems too dry, add water one tablespoon at a time until the dough is slightly sticky but still manageable.
- Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness using a rolling pin.
- Use a cookie cutter or knife to cut the dough into stick shapes or your desired size.
- Place the cut-out snacks onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space in between each piece.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the treats are firm and lightly golden.
- Once baked, remove the snack sticks from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.
Notes
Store the cooled snack sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze the treats for up to 2 months. Always remember these are occasional treats and should be given in moderation. Variations:
- Add 1/4 cup grated carrot for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Substitute whole wheat flour with oat flour for a gluten-free option.
- Incorporate a handful of blueberries for a fruity twist.
