Homemade Peanut Butter and Banana Dog Cookies
🎉 Introduction
Treat your furry friend to these delightful Peanut Butter and Banana Dog Cookies! This easy recipe combines the nutty goodness of natural peanut butter with the sweet flavor of ripe bananas, creating a perfect snack for your pup. Whether you want soft cookies or crispy ones, you can customize them to your dog’s preference. Let’s dive into making a tasty treat that your dog will love!
🧰 Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Fork or potato masher
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Cookie cutters (optional)
🛒 Ingredients
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- 1 cup natural peanut butter (no xylitol)
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1/4 cup rolled oats
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
👩🍳 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, mash the ripe banana using a fork or potato masher until smooth.
Step 3: Add the natural peanut butter and egg to the mashed banana, mixing until well combined.
Step 4: Gradually incorporate the whole wheat flour and rolled oats into the mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
Step 5: If the dough is too dry, add water one tablespoon at a time until it reaches the desired consistency.
Step 6: For a chewy texture, roll the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness; for crunchier cookies, roll it thinner.
Step 7: Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes or simply slice the dough into squares.
Step 8: Place the cut cookies onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
Step 9: Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and firm.
Step 10: Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack before serving them to your dog.
🍽️ Servings & Timing
Yields approximately 24 cookies. Prep time: 15 minutes. Bake time: 20-25 minutes. Total time: 40 minutes.
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months. Remember, these are treats, not a complete diet, and should be given in moderation.
🥄 Variations
- Add 1/4 cup of shredded carrots for extra nutrition.
- Substitute half of the flour with oat flour for a different texture.
- Mix in some unsweetened applesauce for added moisture and sweetness.
❓ FAQs
Q: Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
A: Yes, you can substitute almond butter, but ensure it does not contain xylitol or any additives that are harmful to dogs.
Q: Are these cookies suitable for puppies?
A: Yes, but you should introduce them gradually, and consult with your veterinarian if your puppy has any dietary restrictions.
Q: How do I know if my dog is allergic to peanut butter?
A: If it’s their first time trying peanut butter, start with a small amount and watch for any signs of allergies, such as itching or digestive upset.
Q: Can I make these cookies without eggs?
A: Yes, you can replace the egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana for a vegan version.
Q: How can I make these treats crunchy?
A: Roll the dough thinner before cutting it out and bake for a slightly longer time to achieve a crunchy texture.
Q: Can I add other flavors to these cookies?
A: Absolutely! You can mix in flavors like pumpkin puree (plain, unsweetened) or blueberries for a delightful twist.
Q: What if the dough is too sticky?
A: If the dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour until it is workable.
Q: Can I use whole wheat flour alternatives?
A: Yes, you can use oat flour or brown rice flour if your dog has a sensitivity to wheat.
Q: How should I store leftover cookies?
A: Keep them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, or refrigerate or freeze for longer shelf life.
Q: Is it safe for dogs to eat bananas?
A: Yes, bananas are safe for dogs in moderation, providing vitamins and minerals.
🏁 Conclusion
These homemade Peanut Butter and Banana Dog Cookies are not only simple to make but also a fun way to spoil your pup! With wholesome ingredients and customizable options, these treats are sure to be a hit with your furry friend. Remember to serve them as occasional snacks and consult your veterinarian if your dog has specific dietary needs or allergies. Happy baking!
Homemade Peanut Butter and Banana Dog Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe banana using a fork or potato masher until smooth.
- Add the natural peanut butter and egg to the mashed banana, mixing until well combined.
- Gradually incorporate the whole wheat flour and rolled oats into the mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
- If the dough is too dry, add water one tablespoon at a time until it reaches the desired consistency.
- For a chewy texture, roll the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness; for crunchier cookies, roll it thinner.
- Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes or simply slice the dough into squares.
- Place the cut cookies onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and firm.
- Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack before serving them to your dog.
Notes
Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months. Remember, these are treats, not a complete diet, and should be given in moderation. Variations:
- Add 1/4 cup of shredded carrots for extra nutrition.
- Substitute half of the flour with oat flour for a different texture.
- Mix in some unsweetened applesauce for added moisture and sweetness.
