Description
These Peanut Butter and Pumpkin Chew Twists are a wholesome, homemade dog treat combining the natural goodness of pumpkin puree and peanut butter. They are easy to make with simple ingredients, perfect for rewarding your furry friend with a delicious, nutritious snack that supports digestion and overall health.
Ingredients
Scale
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (plain, no added sugar or spices)
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (xylitol-free)
- 1 egg (optional)
- A drizzle of honey (optional)
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups whole wheat flour (or gluten-free alternative like oat flour)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Other
- Water as needed
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the treats.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the canned pumpkin puree, natural peanut butter, and the egg if using. Add the drizzle of honey if desired for a hint of sweetness. Mix until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour and ground cinnamon. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring to form a dough. If the dough is too dry, add a small amount of water as needed to bring it together.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently until it’s smooth and uniform in texture.
- Roll and Cut: Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Using a knife or cookie cutters, cut the dough into twists or desired shapes suitable for dogs.
- Bake the Treats: Place the shaped dough pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden brown and the treats are firm to the touch.
- Cool Completely: Remove the treats from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack to harden and develop their chew texture.
- Store Properly: Once cooled, store the treats in an airtight container. Use within 2 weeks or freeze for longer storage.
Notes
- Ensure the peanut butter used does not contain xylitol, as it is toxic to dogs.
- The egg is optional and can be omitted for dogs with allergies.
- Use gluten-free flour alternatives like oat flour if your dog has gluten sensitivities.
- Do not add any spices beyond cinnamon; avoid nutmeg or cloves as these can be harmful to dogs.
- Always introduce new treats gradually and consult your veterinarian if your dog has food sensitivities.
