If you’re looking to treat your furry friend to something special, homemade dog treats with applesauce are a great option! Not only are they simple to make, but they’re also packed with flavor and nutrition. Applesauce provides a naturally sweet taste that dogs love, while offering beneficial vitamins and fiber.
Whether you’re rewarding your dog after a successful training session or just showing them some extra love, these treats are a perfect choice. You can control exactly what goes into them, avoiding all the artificial additives and preservatives that are often found in store-bought treats.
Plus, the best part is you probably have most of the ingredients already in your kitchen. Making homemade dog treats with applesauce is an easy, affordable, and healthy way to pamper your pet. So, why not whip up a batch today and see how much your dog enjoys? They’ll be wagging their tails in no time!
Why Applesauce is Great for Dog Treats
If you’ve ever made dog treats at home or looked into healthy ingredients for pups, you’ve likely come across applesauce. This humble kitchen staple isn’t just tasty—it offers several benefits that make it a smart choice for dog treat recipes. Let’s break down why applesauce deserves a spot in your homemade treat lineup.
Natural Sweetness Without Added Sugar
One of the biggest reasons applesauce is popular in dog treats is its naturally sweet flavor. Dogs have a bit of a sweet tooth, and applesauce satisfies that craving without needing refined sugar. Of course, when using applesauce in dog treats, it’s important to choose unsweetened varieties with no added sugar or artificial sweeteners like xylitol, which can be toxic to dogs.
Natural applesauce is a gentle way to add flavor and moisture while keeping treats healthy. It’s especially helpful if you’re looking to make low-fat or grain-free snacks since it replaces less healthy binders or fats like oils and butter.
A Source of Vitamins and Fiber
Applesauce contains many of the nutritional benefits found in fresh apples, including vitamins A and C and dietary fiber. Vitamin A supports skin and coat health, while vitamin C can aid in immune system support, especially for aging dogs.
The fiber in applesauce also helps support a healthy digestive system. It can aid with both constipation and diarrhea, depending on your dog’s needs. In moderation, it helps regulate bowel movements and keeps things moving along smoothly.
Moisture and Texture Enhancer in Treats
Homemade dog treats often lack the preservatives and additives that keep store-bought treats soft and shelf-stable. That’s where applesauce comes in. It adds natural moisture, making treats softer, easier to chew, and more palatable—especially for older dogs with dental concerns.
Applesauce also works well as a binding agent, helping to hold ingredients like oats, peanut butter, and pumpkin together. This improves the texture and consistency of your treats without relying on eggs or dairy, which some dogs are sensitive to.
Low-Calorie and Weight-Friendly
Another perk? Applesauce is relatively low in calories and fat, making it ideal for dogs that are on a weight management plan. You can offer your pup a flavorful snack without adding too much to their daily calorie intake.
Because of its sweetness and moisture content, applesauce allows you to reduce the quantity of richer ingredients like peanut butter or cheese while still creating a tasty and satisfying treat.
Easy to Work With and Store
Finally, applesauce is just plain convenient. It’s affordable, widely available, and comes in shelf-stable packaging. You don’t need to peel, core, or chop anything—just open the jar and mix it in.
Plus, you can portion it easily, store any leftovers in the fridge, or freeze it in cubes to use later. This makes it an excellent go-to when you want to whip up a quick batch of dog treats without much prep time.
Ingredients for Homemade Dog Treats with Applesauce
Making dog treats at home is not only fun and rewarding—it’s also a great way to control what goes into your furry friend’s snacks. When applesauce is the star ingredient, you’re already off to a nutritious start. But what other ingredients should you include to keep the treats healthy, tasty, and easy to make? Let’s break it down.
Unsweetened Applesauce
This is the key ingredient, so choose it carefully. Go for unsweetened applesauce with no added sugars, artificial flavors, or preservatives. Applesauce adds natural sweetness, moisture, and nutrients like fiber and vitamin C. If you’re using homemade applesauce, make sure it’s just apples and water—nothing extra.
Whole Wheat Flour or Oat Flour
You’ll need a base to form the dough. Whole wheat flour is a common option because it’s packed with nutrients and fiber. If your dog is sensitive to wheat or has allergies, oat flour is a great gluten-free alternative. Both flours give the treats a chewy, hearty texture.
Peanut Butter (Unsweetened and Xylitol-Free)
Dogs love peanut butter, and it pairs perfectly with applesauce. Be sure to use natural peanut butter that contains no xylitol (a sweetener that’s toxic to dogs), salt, or added sugar. Just ground peanuts and maybe a little oil is all you need.
Eggs
Eggs help bind everything together while adding protein, healthy fats, and vitamins like B12 and riboflavin. One egg is usually enough for most small-batch recipes, but always follow your specific recipe’s recommendations.
Optional Add-Ins
Depending on your dog’s taste preferences and dietary needs, you can add other healthy ingredients to the mix:
- Pumpkin puree for extra fiber and digestive support.
- Grated carrots or finely chopped spinach for a veggie boost.
- Cinnamon (in very small amounts) for a warm, dog-safe flavor.
- Rolled oats for added texture and heartiness.
Just be sure any add-ins are safe for dogs. Avoid anything toxic like chocolate, raisins, onions, or nutmeg.
Water or Low-Sodium Broth
If your dough feels too thick or dry, a splash of water or low-sodium chicken broth can help you get the right consistency. Start with a tablespoon at a time until the dough comes together smoothly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Applesauce Dog Treats
Making homemade dog treats is easier than you might think, especially when you’re using applesauce as a key ingredient. Not only does it add a natural sweetness that dogs absolutely love, but it also works well as a binding agent to hold the dough together and maintain a soft, chewy texture.
Plus, using applesauce gives you peace of mind that you’re giving your furry friend something wholesome and free from additives or fillers. Below is a detailed, step-by-step guide to help you create your own batch of delicious, healthy applesauce dog treats at home.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Before you start mixing, be sure to gather all the ingredients you’ll need for this easy recipe. Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2 ½ cups whole wheat flour (or substitute with oat flour for a gluten-free version)
- ½ cup natural peanut butter (make sure it’s xylitol-free and contains no added sugar)
- 1 egg
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional but adds a warm, pleasant scent)
- Water or low-sodium chicken broth (to help adjust the dough’s consistency if needed)
You can also customize the recipe by tossing in dog-safe add-ins like finely grated carrots, pumpkin puree, or rolled oats for an extra nutritional boost.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to fully preheat while you prepare the dough. This ensures even baking once your treats go in. Also, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a silicone baking mat—this will keep your treats from sticking and make cleanup much easier.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the unsweetened applesauce, natural peanut butter, and egg. Stir or whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy. You can use a hand mixer for a quicker blend, but a sturdy spoon or spatula works just fine too. This forms the tasty and aromatic base of your dough.
Step 4: Add the Dry Ingredients
Gradually stir in the whole wheat flour and the optional cinnamon to the wet mixture. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to combine until a dough begins to form. If the dough feels too dry or crumbly, add a little water or low-sodium broth, one tablespoon at a time. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle in more flour until it’s manageable and easy to roll.
Step 5: Roll Out the Dough
Lightly flour a clean surface, then turn out the dough and roll it to about ¼ inch thick. The thickness can be adjusted depending on how soft or crunchy you want the final treats to be. Thicker dough results in softer cookies, while thinner dough gives you crispier ones.
Step 6: Cut Out the Treats
Use your favorite cookie cutters to shape the dough. Dog bone cutters are cute, but hearts, stars, or even basic circles work just as well. You can also use a knife or pizza cutter to slice the dough into simple bite-sized squares. Once shaped, place the pieces on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them out slightly.
Step 7: Bake
Bake the treats in your preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown around the edges. For extra crunch, leave them in for an additional 5 to 10 minutes—but be sure to watch closely so they don’t burn. Every oven is a bit different, so check on your treats near the 20-minute mark.
Step 8: Cool Completely
When baking is complete, transfer the dog treats to a wire rack and let them cool completely. This is a key step—if you store them while they’re still warm, the remaining moisture can create mold or spoilage. Once cooled, the texture should be just right: firm enough to handle but not too hard on your dog’s teeth.
Step 9: Store the Treats
Keep the cooled treats in an airtight container. They’ll last for about a week at room temperature, or you can extend their freshness by refrigerating them for up to two weeks. For long-term storage, freeze a portion of the batch and thaw them out as needed. Frozen treats can last up to three months in the freezer.
Step 10: Treat Your Dog!
The best part is finally here—sharing the treats with your pup! Offer a sample and enjoy the happy tail wags, excited sniffs, and delighted crunches. Knowing you made these from scratch with safe, simple ingredients makes the treat-time even more special.
Storing and Serving Your Homemade Dog Treats
Once you’ve gone through the fun of baking a batch of homemade dog treats with applesauce, it’s important to store them properly so they stay fresh, tasty, and safe for your furry friend. After all, these treats don’t contain preservatives like store-bought options—so a little care goes a long way in keeping them at their best.
How to Store Applesauce Dog Treats
Once the treats have cooled completely, it’s time to store them in a way that keeps them from getting stale or moldy. Here are a few easy and effective storage methods:
Room Temperature (Short-Term Storage)
If you plan to use the treats within a few days, keeping them at room temperature is fine. Store them in an airtight container—like a glass jar, metal tin, or food-safe plastic container—and place them in a cool, dry spot away from sunlight or heat. Properly sealed, they should last up to one week.
Refrigerator (Medium-Term Storage)
To keep the treats fresh for a bit longer, pop them in the fridge. Store them in an airtight container or resealable bag, and they should stay good for about two weeks. The cooler temperature helps prevent moisture buildup and slows down the natural spoilage process.
Freezer (Long-Term Storage)
Want to make a big batch and save some for later? Freezing is a great option. Simply place the cooled treats in a freezer-safe bag or container and label them with the date. When frozen properly, they’ll stay fresh for up to three months. When you’re ready to serve, let a few thaw at room temperature for about 15–20 minutes before offering them to your pup.
Serving Tips for Your Pup
Serving your homemade treats can be just as fun as baking them. Here are a few ideas to make treat-time extra special:
Training Rewards
Cut your treats into small pieces before baking to use them as training rewards. Dogs respond well to these tasty, bite-sized incentives.
Special Occasion Snacks
Use shaped cookie cutters for birthdays, holidays, or just because! Shaped treats add a festive touch, and your dog will love the effort (and the flavor).
Stuffed in Toys
Break up a treat and stuff it inside a puzzle toy or Kong to keep your pup entertained. It’s a great way to combine snack time with mental stimulation.
Cool Summer Snack
In warmer months, serve a treat chilled straight from the fridge for a refreshing bite. You can even freeze small spoonfuls of the dough into silicone molds and bake or serve them frozen as a cool treat.
Homemade dog treats with applesauce are a labor of love, and proper storage ensures they stay just as delicious as the day you baked them. Whether you’re rewarding good behavior or just showing your dog a little extra love, these treats are a healthy and thoughtful way to do it.
Benefits of Homemade Dog Treats
Making your own dog treats at home isn’t just a fun kitchen project—it’s also one of the best things you can do for your dog’s health and happiness. While store-bought treats are convenient, they often come with preservatives, artificial flavors, or ingredients you may not recognize.
When you bake at home, you have full control over every ingredient, ensuring your pup gets the best.
Healthier Ingredients You Can Trust
Homemade dog treats allow you to choose high-quality, wholesome ingredients. You can skip the fillers, additives, and artificial preservatives found in many commercial brands. Instead, you can opt for dog-safe items like unsweetened applesauce, natural peanut butter, oat or whole wheat flour, and fresh fruits or veggies. Your dog gets the nutrients they need—without the junk.
Perfect for Picky Eaters
If your dog turns their nose up at most treats, homemade goodies might be the solution. You can tailor the recipe to suit their favorite flavors and textures. Whether your pup loves soft chews or crunchy bites, you’re in control of the outcome. You can even experiment with add-ins like pumpkin, blueberries, or carrots for a flavor boost.
Ideal for Dogs with Allergies or Sensitivities
Dogs with food allergies or sensitive stomachs often struggle with store-bought treats. When you make them at home, you can avoid problem ingredients like wheat, dairy, soy, or chicken. Recipes using limited ingredients or hypoallergenic alternatives (like oat flour or pumpkin) make treat time safer and more enjoyable for sensitive pups.
Cost-Effective and Budget-Friendly
While high-quality dog treats can be expensive, homemade versions are often cheaper—especially if you buy ingredients in bulk or use what you already have in the pantry. A single batch can yield dozens of treats, saving you money while providing peace of mind.
Promotes a Stronger Bond with Your Dog
There’s something heartwarming about making something special just for your pup. The time and care you put into baking treats can strengthen your bond. Plus, watching their tail wag in excitement when they get to sample the results is priceless.
Customizable for Every Need
Want to make treats small for training, heart-shaped for holidays, or crunchy for dental health? You can do all of that and more. Homemade treats are incredibly versatile, and you can tweak each batch to suit your dog’s age, breed, activity level, or even dietary restrictions.
Fun for the Whole Family
Baking dog treats is a great family activity. Kids love using cookie cutters, stirring the dough, and handing over finished treats to the family pet. It’s a simple, rewarding way to teach children about caring for animals and healthy food choices.
In short, homemade dog treats offer unbeatable benefits—from better nutrition to stronger bonds. When you bake with love, your dog not only gets a tasty snack but also a healthy one made just for them. Want help coming up with more fun flavors your pup will love?
FAQs
What Are the Benefits of Applesauce in Homemade Dog Treats?
Applesauce is a fantastic ingredient to include in homemade dog treats for several reasons. It adds natural sweetness that dogs love without the added sugars found in many store-bought treats. Applesauce also helps to bind the dough, making the treats easier to shape and bake. Rich in fiber and vitamins, particularly Vitamin C, applesauce can contribute to your dog’s digestive health and overall well-being. However, it’s essential to use unsweetened applesauce, as added sugars and artificial sweeteners can be harmful to dogs.
Can I Use Store-Bought Applesauce for Homemade Dog Treats?
Yes, you can use store-bought applesauce for homemade dog treats, but it’s crucial to choose unsweetened applesauce with no added sugars or artificial sweeteners, especially xylitol, which is toxic to dogs. Opt for a natural, pure applesauce without added preservatives or flavorings to ensure the best quality for your furry friend. You can also make your own applesauce at home, which allows you to control the ingredients even further.
How Long Do Homemade Dog Treats with Applesauce Last?
Homemade dog treats with applesauce can stay fresh for about one week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want them to last longer, consider refrigerating them, which can extend their freshness for up to two weeks. For long-term storage, freezing these treats is an excellent option—just make sure to place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, and they will last for up to three months. Always allow frozen treats to thaw before giving them to your dog.
Can I Use Other Types of Flour in Homemade Dog Treats with Applesauce?
Yes, you can use alternative flours if your dog has dietary restrictions or sensitivities. While whole wheat flour is commonly used, you can easily substitute it with gluten-free options like oat flour, brown rice flour, or chickpea flour. Just be sure that the flour you choose is safe for dogs and suitable for their specific needs. Additionally, different flours might affect the texture of the dough, so you may need to adjust the amount of liquid used in your recipe.
How Can I Make Homemade Dog Treats with Applesauce More Nutritious?
There are several ways to boost the nutritional value of your applesauce dog treats. Adding ingredients like shredded carrots, spinach, pumpkin puree, or blueberries can provide additional vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber. You can also incorporate chia seeds or flaxseeds for a healthy dose of omega-3 fatty acids. Keep in mind that while adding extras can improve the treats’ health benefits, you should always check that the ingredients are safe for dogs and avoid anything toxic, like raisins or grapes.
Can I Make Applesauce Dog Treats for Puppies?
Yes, applesauce dog treats can be suitable for puppies, but you must ensure that all the ingredients are puppy-friendly and appropriate for their developing stomachs. Avoid using ingredients like honey or added sugar, and choose soft or easily chewable treats if your puppy is still teething. It’s best to consult with your vet before introducing new treats, especially if your puppy has any allergies or sensitivities. Additionally, keep treats in moderation as part of a balanced diet to avoid overfeeding.
Final Words
Making homemade dog treats with applesauce is a fun and rewarding way to show your dog how much you care while providing them with a healthy, tasty snack. Applesauce not only adds natural sweetness but also offers nutritional benefits like fiber and vitamins.
The ability to control the ingredients ensures that your pup enjoys a treat that is free from artificial additives or harmful ingredients. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion, training, or just because, these treats are versatile and easy to customize based on your dog’s preferences.
With simple steps and ingredients, you can create a batch of wholesome treats that your dog will love and enjoy. So, why not treat your furry friend to something homemade and delicious today? They’ll surely appreciate the extra love and care!
