Easy Peanut Butter & Applesauce Dog Treats

Every now and then, I look over at Max – my floppy-eared golden retriever with his gentle eyes and ever-wagging tail – and feel a warm tug in my chest. He’s more than just a pet; he’s my shadow, my snuggle buddy, and my emotional support on tough days.

A few months ago, Max had a rough patch with store-bought treats. His tummy would grumble, and his energy dipped. That’s when I took a deep dive into what was really in those bags—unpronounceable preservatives, unnecessary fillers, and questionable "flavors." Yikes.

So I rolled up my sleeves, tied on my apron, and made something better. These Easy Peanut Butter & Applesauce Dog Treats were the very first ones I created. And Max? He went wild for them.

These treats are made with just a few wholesome, dog-safe ingredients you likely already have at home. They’re grain-free, xylitol-free, and full of tail-wagging goodness.

• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce (no added sugar or xylitol)

• ½ cup natural peanut butter (check the label for xylitol – avoid it completely!)

• 1¾ cups oat flour (or finely ground rolled oats)

• Optional: 1 egg (for a firmer texture) or ½ tsp cinnamon (for a cozy aroma)

These treats are as healthy as they are tasty:

• Applesauce is rich in fiber and Vitamin C (just make sure it’s unsweetened).

• Peanut butter provides protein and healthy fats that support energy and coat health.

• Oat flour is gentle on sensitive stomachs and a great gluten-free carb.

🦴 Bons: No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.

Every dog is different—just like us! You can easily tailor this recipe to suit your pup’s preferences:

• For crunchier treats: Bake for 18–20 minutes.

• Add-ins: Mix in grated carrots, blueberries, or finely chopped spinach.

• No oats? Use whole wheat flour or rice flour if your dog tolerates grains.

• Soft chews: Skip the egg and reduce bake time to keep them tender for older dogs.

Making these treats has become our thing. As soon as I grab the peanut butter jar, Max comes trotting over, tail sweeping the floor like a feather duster.

He sits patiently by my feet (well, mostly patiently), his nose twitching, eyes begging. It’s become more than baking—it’s our ritual. It’s time together, love mixed into every bite.

• Room Temp: Store in an airtight jar for up to 5 days .

• Fridge: Keeps fresh for 10–14 days .

• Freezer: Store in a ziplock for up to 3 months . Just thaw a few at a time!

💡 Pro Tip: Serve frozen on hot days for a refreshing snack.

• Dough too sticky? Add more oat flour 1 tbsp at a time.

• Too dry? Mix in a teaspoon of water or a little more applesauce.

• Dog won’t eat it? Try a tiny drizzle of honey (dog-safe, of course) or shape the treats smaller for curious nibblers.

💡 Pro Tip: Serve frozen on hot days for a refreshing snack.

I never expected a simple homemade treat to bring this much joy to both of us.

It’s not just about healthier ingredients or saving money—it’s about the love baked into each bite. Watching Max wiggle with excitement and gently take the treat from my hand melts my heart every time.

These small moments of connection… they’re everything. And I hope you and your pup get to share them, too.

• Always double-check that your peanut butter is xylitol-free —xylitol is toxic to dogs, even in small amounts.

• If using store-bought applesauce, choose unsweetened with no added sugar or artificial sweeteners.

• For smaller dogs or training treats, cut into tiny bite-sized pieces before baking.

• You can substitute oat flour with blended rolled oats if you don’t have it pre-ground.

• If your dog has known allergies or dietary sensitivities, consult your vet before introducing new ingredients.

• These treats are meant to be an occasional snack , not a full meal replacement.

• Want to make them festive? Use holiday-themed cookie cutters or drizzle with a thin dog-safe yogurt glaze after baking.

Serving Size: 1 bite
Calories: 35
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 5mg
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: 0.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fiber: 0.5g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg (unless egg is added, then ~3mg)