Looking for a wholesome, gently sweet, and entirely irresistible treat that bridges the gap between snacktime and special rewards? Let me introduce you to Peanut Butter Sweet Potato Chew Sticks! These golden, chewy sticks blend the earthiness of sweet potato with the craveable richness of natural peanut butter, finished with a kiss of cinnamon warmth. Whether you’re making these as a chewy delight for your four-legged buddy (always using xylitol-free peanut butter!) or seeking a healthy, plant-based nibble for yourself, this easy recipe is about to become a fixture in your snack rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the very best things about Peanut Butter Sweet Potato Chew Sticks is just how simple and nourishing the ingredient list is. Every item on this list pulls its flavorful weight, giving you a snack with beautiful color, a tender yet satisfying bite, and sweet notes that keep you reaching for more.
- Sweet Potatoes: Choose firm, orange-fleshed sweet potatoes for the brightest color and the best chewy texture after baking.
- Natural Peanut Butter (unsweetened, xylitol-free): This ingredient brings a nutty, creamy depth—make sure it’s free of added sugars and especially xylitol if you’re sharing with pets.
- Coconut Oil (optional): A glossy drizzle of coconut oil gives the finished chew sticks a lovely shine and just a hint of tropical scent.
- Cinnamon (optional): Just a sprinkling enhances the natural sweetness and creates a subtle warmth in every bite.
How to Make Peanut Butter Sweet Potato Chew Sticks
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Tray
Start by preheating your oven to 250°F (120°C), which is the ideal temperature for drying out sweet potatoes slowly without burning. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to keep sticking at bay and make clean-up a breeze later on.
Step 2: Slice the Sweet Potatoes
Peel your sweet potatoes and slice them into long, even sticks—aiming for about 1/2 inch thick to strike the perfect balance between chewy and tender. If you prefer crunch, go a bit thinner. Uniformity here is key to ensure all your Peanut Butter Sweet Potato Chew Sticks bake evenly.
Step 3: Coat with Peanut Butter Mixture
In a small bowl, gently melt your peanut butter with the coconut oil (if using) until they meld into a silky blend. Now toss your sweet potato sticks with this peanutty mixture, making sure each piece is evenly coated. Sprinkle in cinnamon if you’d like a little warm spice to shine through.
Step 4: Arrange and Bake
Lay out the coated sweet potato sticks on the prepared baking sheet, keeping them in a single layer so they cook evenly. Slide them into your preheated oven and bake for 2 and a half to 3 hours, giving them a flip halfway through. You’re looking for that “just right” chew—dry and bendy, with a hint of caramelization, but never burnt.
Step 5: Cool and Store
Once out of the oven, let your Peanut Butter Sweet Potato Chew Sticks cool completely. This is when they reach peak chewiness. Store them in an airtight container on the counter for up to a week, or in the fridge for even longer freshness.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Sweet Potato Chew Sticks
Garnishes
If you’re in the mood for a finishing touch, try a light dusting of extra cinnamon or a drizzle of melted (pet-safe) carob for a playful look. For human snacking, a sprinkle of toasted crushed nuts adds irresistible crunch.
Side Dishes
When serving to people, pair these chew sticks alongside a platter of fresh fruit, a little yogurt, or even a chocolate dipping sauce for extra decadence. They also tuck nicely onto a grazing board with cheeses, dried fruit, and crackers for a sweet-and-savory contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack Peanut Butter Sweet Potato Chew Sticks in a mason jar tied with twine (adorable for gifting), or arrange them like fries in a mini metal basket for a fun, snack-time surprise. For pet parties, tuck them into treat bags as party favors!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover Peanut Butter Sweet Potato Chew Sticks fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to seven days. If you prefer a slightly firmer chew, refrigerate them, and they’ll keep beautifully for around two weeks.
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze Peanut Butter Sweet Potato Chew Sticks! Simply spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll stay tasty for up to three months—just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.
Reheating
If you’d like your chew sticks a bit softer after freezing or refrigeration, pop them back in a low oven (about 250°F) for a few minutes. This revives their just-baked aroma and texture without making them mushy.
FAQs
Can I use other nut butters instead of peanut butter?
Absolutely! Almond butter or cashew butter both bring a lovely creamy flavor, and they work just as well. Just be sure any nut butter is unsweetened, salt-free, and xylitol-free if you’re making these for pets.
Are these safe for dogs with food allergies?
If your pet has a known sensitivity to sweet potato or peanut products, it’s best to check with your vet first. You can try substituting safe alternatives, but always introduce new treats gradually and watch for signs of allergies.
How do I make these extra crunchy?
Slice the sweet potato sticks a bit thinner—about 1/4 inch thick—and lengthen the bake time slightly. Thinner sticks will lose more moisture and crisp up as they cool, making them crunchier but still tasty!
Can humans and dogs eat the same batch?
Yes! These Peanut Butter Sweet Potato Chew Sticks are made from wholesome, human-grade ingredients and are naturally vegan and gluten-free. Just stick with pet-safe peanut butter if you’re sharing with your furry friends!
Why do I need xylitol-free peanut butter?
Xylitol, a common sugar substitute, is extremely toxic to dogs even in small amounts. To keep these treats safe for all, always choose unsweetened, xylitol-free peanut butter. Double-check the ingredient list to be sure.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re making a healthy boredom-buster for your pup or a wholesome snack for yourself, Peanut Butter Sweet Potato Chew Sticks are a delicious labor of love. I hope you give this recipe a try and discover just how rewarding homemade, simple treats can be!
Print
Peanut Butter Sweet Potato Chew Sticks Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2.5–3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 20–24 chew sticks
- Category: Snack, Treat
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten-Free
Description
These Peanut Butter Sweet Potato Chew Sticks are a delightful and healthy snack that can be enjoyed by both humans and furry friends. Made with just a few simple ingredients, these chewy sticks are easy to prepare and perfect for satisfying that crunchy, peanut butter craving.
Ingredients
Sweet Potato Sticks:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled
Peanut Butter Coating:
- 2 tablespoons natural peanut butter (unsweetened, xylitol-free)
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional for shine)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut sweet potatoes: Cut the peeled sweet potatoes into long, even sticks—about 1/2 inch thick for a chewy texture or thinner for a crunchier result.
- Prepare coating: In a small bowl, melt the peanut butter and coconut oil (if using) together until smooth. Toss the sweet potato sticks in the mixture until evenly coated. Sprinkle with cinnamon if desired.
- Bake: Place the coated sticks in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake for 2.5 to 3 hours, flipping once halfway through, until dried and chewy but not burnt.
- Cool and store: Let cool completely before serving or storing. Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Notes
- Perfect as a homemade dog treat or human snack—just make sure to use xylitol-free peanut butter.
- Adjust baking time for desired chewiness.
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