Description
These Carrot & Apple Crunchy Cookies for Dogs are a healthy, homemade treat packed with wholesome ingredients like rolled oats, whole wheat flour, fresh carrot, apple, peanut butter, and a touch of cinnamon. Perfectly baked to a crisp, these cookies are easy to make and safe to serve your furry friend as a delicious snack.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats (make sure they’re dog-safe and gluten-free if needed)
- 1 cup whole wheat flour (or oat flour for gluten-free)
- 1 tsp cinnamon (optional, for added flavor)
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup shredded carrot (about 1 medium carrot)
- ½ cup finely chopped apple (peeled and cored, about 1 small apple)
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2 tbsp peanut butter (make sure it’s xylitol-free)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to ensure the cookies bake evenly and don’t stick.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the rolled oats, whole wheat flour (or oat flour if gluten-free), and cinnamon (if using). Stir thoroughly to distribute the dry ingredients evenly.
- Combine the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, unsweetened applesauce, peanut butter, and shredded carrot until the mixture is smooth. Fold in the finely chopped apple and mix gently until all wet ingredients are well combined.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the wet mixture into the bowl with dry ingredients, stirring continuously until a dough forms. If the dough feels sticky or too soft to handle, add a little more flour or oats until you have a firm, workable dough.
- Roll out the dough: Lightly flour your work surface or lay down parchment paper. Roll out the dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter or knife to cut the dough into small squares or shapes suitable for your dog’s size and preference.
- Bake the cookies: Arrange the cut cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about one inch apart to ensure even cooking. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cookies turn golden brown and crisp.
- Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step ensures the cookies harden to a crunchy texture that’s perfect for dogs to enjoy.
- Serve: Offer these crunchy cookies to your dog as a healthy treat. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or freeze them for longer storage.
Notes
- Ensure that the peanut butter used does not contain xylitol, as it is toxic to dogs.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the whole wheat flour with oat flour and ensure the oats are certified gluten-free.
- The cookies can be stored at room temperature for up to one week or frozen for extended freshness.
- Always introduce new treats in moderation and observe your dog for any adverse reactions.
- You can omit the cinnamon if your dog is sensitive to spices.