The holiday season is a time for celebration and indulgence. While many of us are busy preparing a delicious spread of meals and treats for our loved ones, we often forget about our furry friends.
If you’re a pet owner who loves to bake, you’ll be pleased to know that you can make plenty of easy holiday desserts for yourself and your dog.
Whether you’re looking to spoil your pup with a special holiday treat or impress your friends and family with a unique dessert option, these easy recipes are sure to please.
The Benefits of Sharing Desserts with Pets
Feeding your dog human foods in moderation can have several benefits, including:
Improved Digestion: Some human foods, such as pumpkin and sweet potato, can help regulate your dog’s digestion and promote healthy bowel movements.
Better Dental Health: Chewing on crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples or carrots can help clean your dog’s teeth and reduce the risk of dental problems.
Enhanced Nutritional Value: Adding a variety of human foods to your dog’s diet can add essential vitamins and minerals to their meals, benefiting their overall health.
Strengthened Bond: Sharing food with your dog is a great way to strengthen your bond and show them how much you care.
Easy Holiday Desserts for You and Your Dog
When it comes to making desserts for your dog, it’s important to choose ingredients that are safe and healthy for them. Some human foods, like avocado, chocolate, grapes, raisins, and artificial sweeteners, can be toxic to dogs.
However, safe and nutritious human food for dogs must be enjoyed in moderation. Here are two simple and delicious recipes for dog-friendly holiday treats:
Apple Sauce and Veggie Dog-Friendly Cookies
These apple sauce and veggie dog-friendly cookies are easy to make and provide a healthy treat for your furry friend. The combination of applesauce, carrots, zucchini, and parsley provides a variety of vitamins and nutrients, while the cinnamon adds a touch of holiday spice.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup grated carrots
- 1/4 cup grated zucchini
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 egg
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350 °F.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the applesauce, grated carrots, grated zucchini, chopped parsley, and egg.
- Combine the whole wheat flour, baking powder, and cinnamon in a separate bowl,.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface. Ensure it has a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
- Cut out shapes using cookie cutters and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes. If the edges are lightly browned, then it’s ready.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely before serving your dog.
Peanut butter and banana cupcakes
These peanut butter and banana cupcakes are a delicious and healthy treat for both you and your pup. The natural sweetness of the banana and honey, combined with the rich flavor of peanut butter, makes for a satisfying dessert. Plus, whole wheat flour provides a good source of fiber for your furry friend.
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- 1/4 cup peanut butter (make sure it does not contain xylitol because it’s toxic to dogs)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 egg
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350 °F.
- Combine the mashed banana, peanut butter, honey, and egg in a large mixing bowl.
- Combine whole wheat flour and baking powder in a separate bowl.
- Add the dry and wet ingredients. Mix until a batter forms.
- Put the batter into a greased muffin tin. Fill each cup about 3/4 full.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Insert a toothpick in the center of a cupcake, and if it comes out clean, it’s ready.
- Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before serving your dog.
Honey-Yogurt Berry Salad
This dessert is light, refreshing, and perfect for those who prefer a healthier option. It’s like a sweet and tangy melody in your mouth! The honey and yogurt make the perfect sweet and creamy base for the juicy and fresh berries, while the almonds add a nice crunch. It’s a treat that will leave you and your dog satisfied and refreshed.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
- A handful of chopped almonds (optional)
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt and honey.
- In another bowl, mix the berries.
- Combine the berries and honey-yogurt mixture and mix well.
- Sprinkle chopped almonds on top for some added crunch.
Oat Pancakes
These oat pancakes are a great alternative to traditional pancakes that may contain unhealthy ingredients. They are easy to make, delicious, and perfect for breakfast or snacks. The honey adds sweetness, while the cinnamon and applesauce give them a warm and cozy flavor. You can even make themed cookie cutters to craft them into different shapes.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup oat flour
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
- In a medium-sized bowl, mix the oat flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- Whisk together the egg, honey, unsweetened applesauce, and water in another bowl.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients. Mix well.
- Heat a non-stick pan using medium heat and spoon the batter onto the pan.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
Peanut Butter Cookies
Peanut butter cookies are a beloved treat for humans and dogs. These cookies are easy to make, and the whole wheat flour adds a healthier twist. The natural peanut butter gives them a rich and nutty flavor, while the unsweetened applesauce keeps them moist and chewy. Use themed cookie cutters to make them extra festive for special occasions.
Peanut Butter Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/4 cup natural peanut butter
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Mix whole wheat flour, peanut butter, and unsweetened applesauce in a medium-sized bowl.
- Slowly add in the water until the dough comes together.
- Roll out the dough on a flat, floured surface and use themed cookie cutters to cut out shapes.
- Place the cookies on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes.
Summary
These holiday desserts are healthy and delicious for your dog and a great way to bond with your furry friend during the holiday season. Not to mention, making your dog treats is a great way to avoid store-bought options that may be packed with preservatives and other harmful ingredients.