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Homemade Peanut Butter Applesauce Dog Treats Recipe


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Homemade Peanut Butter Applesauce Dog Treats: Tail-Wagging Goodness

Move over store-bought biscuits—these healthy homemade applesauce dog treats are here to steal your pup’s heart (and maybe a few tail wags too). Packed with natural ingredients like peanut butter and applesauce, this DIY dog cookie recipe is easy, wholesome, and bursting with pup-friendly flavor. Whether you’re baking for training rewards or just spoiling your furry friend, these dog biscuits deliver comfort in every crunchy bite.

Inspired by Briana’s treat-loving pups, Loki and Leo, this recipe brings together pantry staples and puppy-approved flavors that are perfect for any paw-ty.

Makes Around 36 Treats

Freshly baked peanut butter applesauce dog treats shaped like bones on a baking sheet and a happy dog licking its lips.

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Why Applesauce and Peanut Butter Are Great for Dogs 

  • Applesauce adds natural sweetness and fiber without added sugar—perfect for sensitive canine stomachs.
  • Peanut butter is rich in healthy fats and protein, making it a delicious, energy-boosting treat.
  • Both ingredients are commonly found in dog treat recipes due to their nutritional benefits and taste appeal.

Why Make Baked Peanut Butter Applesauce Dog Treats

Because your pup deserves more than mystery-filled store-bought snacks. These healthy homemade dog treats are baked with ingredients you actually recognize—no preservatives, no fillers, just pure love in every crunchy bite.

Toss out those long ingredient lists and confusing labels. This natural dog treat recipe blends the rich, nutty flavor dogs adore with wholesome pantry staples like applesauce and peanut butter. If it’s not good enough for you, it doesn’t belong in your dog’s treat jar.

Want to switch things up? Try our Homemade Chicken & Wild Rice Dog Treats for a savory variation your furry friend will devour. Every DIY dog cookie is designed with canine wellness in mind—because treats should be both tasty and functional.

The best part? Total control. You choose the ingredients, shape the cookies, and serve up a batch your dog can safely enjoy. These peanut butter applesauce dog biscuits bring tail wags, happy eyes, and snack-time bliss. Once they taste the peanut butter magic, there’s no going back.

A plate stacked with homemade peanut butter applesauce dog treats shaped like bones, ready to be enjoyed by your furry friends.

Spoil Your Pup With These Irresistible Applesauce Dog Treats

Let’s be honest—nothing says “I love you” quite like a homemade treat straight from your kitchen. These peanut butter applesauce dog treats aren’t just snacks; they’re edible hugs in biscuit form. No fillers, no fuss—just healthy homemade dog snacks your pup will devour.

Our furry crew—Jeb, Molly, Tink, and sweet Bailey Mae—can’t get enough of them. Whether you’re rewarding good behavior or just feeling a little extra generous, these natural dog treats are a heartfelt way to make tails wag and eyes light up.

Want to serve up a little extra love? This easy recipe bakes up about three dozen DIY dog cookies, each packed with peanut butter magic and applesauce goodness. It’s a breeze to make—and a joy to serve.

Even the AKC agrees: positive reinforcement builds better bonds—and these treats make it downright delicious.

Dog bone-shaped treats cooling on rack


Easy, Aromatic & Kid-Approved

These peanut butter applesauce dog treats are as easy as they are tail-waggingly delicious—and they smell like fresh-baked cookies while they’re in the oven. Seriously, don’t be surprised if the whole family (two-legged and four) comes sniffing around.

Got kids? Hand them a mixing spoon! This simple recipe is perfect for getting little hands involved in something fun and feel-good. Around here, even Bailey Mae and Jeb know when it’s treat-baking day.

Pro Tip: Always use natural peanut butter that’s free of xylitol—this artificial sweetener is toxic to dogs. Check the label to keep tails wagging safely!

Make It Cute (and Click-Worthy!): How to Shape Your Peanut Butter Applesauce Dog Treats

Here’s where the fun really begins—shaping these treats is easy, but it’s also your chance to add some serious tail-wagging flair. You can keep it simple by rolling the dough into bite-sized balls… or turn treat time into a photo-worthy moment with the help of adorable cookie cutters.

Affiliate Favorite: These bone and paw print cookie cutters are my go-to—they turn every batch into boutique-level cuteness. Perfect for gifting, blog photos, or just a little extra charm on your cookie sheet.

Sure, your pup won’t care if it’s a star or a blob—but let’s be honest, you will.

 

A child using a cookie cutter to shape homemade peanut butter applesauce dog treats from dough on a baking sheet.

Treat Time, Tail-Wag Style: Peanut Butter Applesauce Dog Cookies at a Glance

Whip up the ultimate bark-worthy biscuit with pantry staples and a whole lot of puppy love!

These DIY dog treats are easy to mix, quick to bake, and totally irresistible to pups (and nosey kids who wander into the kitchen). Whether you’re a seasoned treat-maker or a first-time doggy baker, this recipe is your go-to for healthy homemade dog snacks that never disappoint.

Peanut Butter Applesauce Dog Treat Recipe at a Glance

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35–40 minutes
  • Yield: About 36 treats

❗ Consult Your Vet

Always discuss any changes to your dog’s diet with your vet. They can advise on any potential allergies or specific dietary needs. Tailored advice ensures your dog’s treats are both safe and nutritious.

What You’ll Need:

  • 1 ½ cups creamy peanut butter (natural, xylitol-free)
  • 1 ½ cups old-fashioned oats
  • 1 ¼ cups unsweetened applesauce
  • 3 cups flour (whole wheat recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder

Close-up of freshly baked peanut butter applesauce dog treats in various shapes on parchment paper.

Bake Up the Bark: Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Combine ingredients in a large mixing bowl: peanut butter, oats, applesauce, flour, and baking powder. A sturdy hand mixer like this one makes the job a breeze—especially with thicker dough!
  3. If the dough feels dry, mix in more applesauce to reach a dense, rollable texture.
  4. Flour your surface and roll the dough to ½-inch thickness.
  5. Shape the treats using a bone or paw-shaped cookie cutter for extra cuteness—or just roll into tablespoon-sized balls for simplicity.
  6. Place the treats on a silicone baking mat or parchment-lined cookie sheet to prevent sticking and make cleanup a snap.
  7. Bake 20–25 minutes until golden on the edges.
  8. Cool completely on a cooling rack to lock in crunch and avoid sogginess.
  9. Store in an airtight dog treat container or resealable bag for up to one week.

How to Store Dog Treats

  • Cool Completely: Let them rest on a wire rack to avoid trapping moisture.
  • Airtight Storage: Use a resealable plastic bag or a dedicated treat jar to maintain freshness.
  • Keep in a Cool, Dry Place: A pantry or cupboard works perfectly—no direct heat or sunlight.
  • Freeze for Later: For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container. Just label it and remove excess air before sealing.
Bark-worthy Bonus: These treats make adorable gifts for fellow dog lovers. Stack them in a clear jar, tie it with a ribbon, and boom—homemade pup happiness with boutique flair!

Homemade peanut butter applesauce dog treats shaped like bones, freshly baked on a baking sheet.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, either works fine!

Can I substitute the flour?

Absolutely, whole wheat, oat, or coconut flour are all great options.

Should I use sweetened applesauce?

Unsweetened is best to avoid unnecessary sugars.

How should I store the treats?

Cool completely, store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, or freeze for up to 6 months.

Are these treats suitable for puppies?

Consult your vet for treats suitable for puppies due to their specific dietary needs.

How many treats does this recipe make?

Approximately 36, depending on the size of your cutter or balls.

Can I customize the shapes?

Absolutely! Use fun cookie cutters for special shapes.

How long do these treats stay fresh?

Up to one week when stored properly. Always check for spoilage before giving to your dog.

Can I add other flavors or ingredients?

Feel free to experiment with dog-friendly additions like pumpkin puree or carrots.

They Make a Great Gift!

These peanut butter applesauce dog treats make paw-fect gifts for pet lovers. They’re budget-friendly and easy to make, perfect for special occasions or holidays. Impress dog owners and their pets with your thoughtfulness.

These treats also make adorable DIY gifts for your favorite pup parents! Package in a jar with a cute ribbon and include a link to this recipe.

➡️ Add a frosted finish with these fun dog-safe icing recipes.

Why Dogs (and Pet Parents) Love These Treats

      • Simple, real ingredients – no artificial preservatives.
      • Customizable – roll out and cut into fun shapes or scoop into easy balls.
      • Budget-friendly – way cheaper than store-bought snacks!

Expert Tips for Tail-Wagging Success

      • Choose natural peanut butter – make sure it’s XYLITOL-FREE, as this sweetener is toxic to dogs.
      • Add a splash of broth if the dough is too dry – just be sure it’s low sodium and onion-free.
      • Store smart – keep them in an airtight container on the counter for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.

These homemade dog treats are packed with rolled oats and peanut butter—tail-wagging guaranteed.

Let’s Talk Texture

For crunchier peanut butter applesauce dog treats, extend the bake time slightly, and, let them cool completely on a wire rack. Prefer a softer biscuit? Reduce the bake time slightly and cool on the tray.

Variations to Try

      • Carrot Crunch – Add ½ cup grated carrot to the dough.
      • Pumpkin Pup – Swap ½ cup of applesauce with canned pumpkin.
      • Oat-Free – Sub rolled oats for oat flour or skip if sensitive.
      • Grain-Free – Use a chickpea or coconut flour blend (adjust moisture as needed).

More Pet Treat Recipes You’ll Love

Ready to Bake?

Grab your ingredients, warm up your oven, and spoil your pup with homemade love baked right in. Share your baking adventures or questions in the comments below – I’d love to hear from you!

Happy baking and tail wags!

Close-up of homemade peanut butter applesauce dog treats shaped like bones, freshly baked on a baking sheet.

Peanut Butter Applesauce Dog Treats Recipe

Yield: 3 dozen
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Make your dog’s day with these easy, wholesome peanut butter applesauce dog treats! Simple ingredients, no preservatives, and packed with love.

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups creamy peanut butter (use natural peanut butter)
  • 1 ½ cups old-fashioned oats
  • 1 ¼ cups unsweetened applesauce
  • 3 cups flour (whole wheat recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder

Instructions

<ol><li>Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).</li><li>In a large bowl, combine the peanut butter, oats, applesauce, flour, and baking powder. Use a food processor, hand mixer, or mix by hand.</li><li>If the dough seems too dry, add more applesauce for a dense consistency.</li><li>Flour your countertop and roll out the dough to a ½-inch thickness.</li><li>Use a cookie cutter or roll the dough into tablespoon-sized balls to create treats.</li><li>Place the treats on a baking sheet lined with silicone or parchment paper.</li><li>Bake for 20-25 minutes, until lightly golden brown.</li><li>Transfer to a wire rack to cool, allowing the treats to become crunchier as they cool.</li><li>Store in an airtight container for up to one week.</li></ol>

Notes

The longer they bake, the crunchier they are so it’s really up to your dog’s preferences.

They also get crunchier after they’ve cooled so keep that in mind.

Store in an airtight container for up to one week.

Nutrition Information:
Yield: 48 Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 85Total Fat: 4gSaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 49mgCarbohydrates: 10gFiber: 2gSugar: 1gProtein: 3g

Nutritional information is not accurate. It will depend on the size and thickness you cut them.

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About Julee Morrison

Julee Morrison is an author and writer with over 35 years of experience in parenting and family recipes. She’s the author of four cookbooks: The Instant Pot College Cookbook, The How-To Cookbook for Teens, The Complete Cookbook for Teens, and The Complete College Cookbook.Available on Amazon,

Her work has appeared in The LA Times, Disney’s Family Fun Magazine, Bon Appétit, Weight Watchers Magazine, All You, Scholastic Parent & Child, and more.

Her article "My Toddler Stood on Elvis' Grave and Scaled Over Boulders to Get to a Dinosaur" appeared on AP News, and her parenting piece “The Sly Way I Cured My Child's Lying Habit” was featured on PopSugar.

Outside of writing, Julee enjoys baking, reading, collecting crystals, and spending time with her family. You can find more of her work at Mommy’s Memorandum.

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