Peanut Butter and Pumpkin Dog Treats Recipe

Whole wheat flour: This is a healthier alternative to all-purpose flour and adds a nice texture to the treats.

Canned pumpkin: Provides a natural sweetness and is great for your dog's digestion.

Unsalted, no sugar added peanut butter: Ensure it's free from xylitol, which is toxic to dogs, and adds a delicious flavor.

Eggs: Helps bind the ingredients together and adds protein.

When rolling out the dough, make sure to lightly flour both your surface and rolling pin to prevent sticking. If the dough feels too sticky, you can add a little more flour until it reaches a workable consistency. Additionally, using a variety of cookie cutters can make the treats more fun and visually appealing.

• whole wheat flour - Substitute with oat flour: Oat flour is a good alternative for dogs with wheat allergies and provides a similar texture.

• whole wheat flour - Substitute with rice flour: Rice flour is gluten-free and easily digestible for dogs, making it a suitable replacement.

• canned pumpkin - Substitute with sweet potato puree: Sweet potato puree offers a similar consistency and nutritional benefits, such as fiber and vitamins.

• canned pumpkin - Substitute with applesauce: Unsweetened applesauce can provide moisture and a hint of sweetness, though it has a different flavor profile.

• unsalted, no sugar added peanut butter - Substitute with almond butter: Almond butter is a nutritious alternative that is also free from added sugars and salts.

• unsalted, no sugar added peanut butter - Substitute with sunflower seed butter: Sunflower seed butter is a good option for dogs with nut allergies and has a similar texture.

• large eggs - Substitute with flaxseed meal and water mixture: Mixing 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water can replace one egg and provide additional fiber.

• large eggs - Substitute with unsweetened applesauce: Using ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce can replace one egg and add moisture to the treats.

• Store the dog treats in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to one week.
• For longer storage, place the treats in the refrigerator. This will keep them fresh for up to two weeks.
• If you want to keep the treats for an extended period, freezing is the best option. Place the dog treats in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for about an hour. This prevents them from sticking together.
• Once the treats are frozen, transfer them to a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
• When you're ready to serve the treats, simply take out the desired amount and let them thaw at room temperature for a few minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave them for a few seconds to speed up the process.
• Always check the treats for any signs of spoilage before giving them to your dog. If they have an off smell or appearance, it's best to discard them.

• Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the dog treats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-10 minutes until they are warmed through and slightly crisp.

• Use a microwave for a quick reheat. Place a few dog treats on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on low power for 10-15 seconds. Check to ensure they are not too hot before serving.

• For a toaster oven, preheat to 300°F (150°C). Place the dog treats on the toaster oven tray. Heat for 5-7 minutes until they are warmed and slightly crispy.

• If you prefer a softer texture, you can steam the dog treats. Place them in a steamer basket over boiling water for about 2-3 minutes. Let them cool slightly before serving.

• For an air fryer, preheat to 300°F (150°C). Place the dog treats in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for 3-5 minutes until they are warmed through and slightly crisp.

• Oven: Used to bake the dog treats at the specified temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Baking sheet: A flat sheet used to place the cut-out treats for baking.

• Parchment paper: Lining the baking sheet to prevent the treats from sticking.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl to combine the flour, pumpkin, peanut butter, and eggs.

• Rolling pin: Used to roll out the dough to an even thickness of about ¼ inch.

• Floured surface: A surface sprinkled with flour to prevent the dough from sticking while rolling it out.

• Cookie cutter: A tool to cut the dough into desired shapes.

• Cooling rack: A rack to let the treats cool completely before serving.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out the whole wheat flour, canned pumpkin, peanut butter, and eggs before starting to streamline the process.

Use a food processor: Combine the ingredients in a food processor for faster mixing.

Chill the dough: Chill the dough for 10 minutes to make it easier to roll out and cut.

Batch baking: Double the recipe and freeze half the dough for future use.

Quick cleanup: Line your work surface with parchment paper to minimize mess and speed up cleanup.