If you are looking for a wholesome, delightful snack to spoil your furry friend, look no further than this Banana and Blueberry Dog Treats Recipe. These little balls of goodness combine ripe bananas, juicy blueberries, and just the right amount of peanut butter to create a naturally sweet and nourishing treat that your dog will adore. Not only are they easy to make, but they also pack a punch of flavor and nutrition, making snack time a joyous occasion for your pup and an easy win for you as the best pet parent ever.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Banana and Blueberry Dog Treats Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role, whether it’s for taste, texture, or added health benefits, turning basic pantry staples into a tail-wagging delight.
- Ripe bananas: These bring natural sweetness and moisture to the treats, making them soft and tasty.
- Rolled oats: A gentle, gluten-free grain that adds texture and fiber to support digestion.
- Blueberries: Fresh or frozen, they add bursts of antioxidants and a lovely pop of color.
- Natural peanut butter (unsalted and xylitol-free): This ingredient contributes a rich, nutty flavor while supplying protein and healthy fats.
- Honey (optional): Just a touch to enhance sweetness without overdoing it, perfect for sensitive palates.
- Coconut flour: Adds structure and fiber, ensuring the dough holds together nicely for perfect baking.
How to Make Banana and Blueberry Dog Treats Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Surface
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This sets you up for even baking and easy cleanup, making your treat-making process smooth and stress-free.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas
Grab two ripe bananas and mash them thoroughly in a large bowl until smooth. This step is crucial because the bananas provide the natural sweetness and act as a binding agent, holding your treats together without needing any artificial additives.
Step 3: Mix in Peanut Butter and Honey
Add ¼ cup of your xylitol-free natural peanut butter and a tablespoon of honey (if you choose to use it) to the mashed bananas. Stir these together until you have a creamy, well-blended base that promises mouthwatering flavor in every bite.
Step 4: Incorporate Oats and Coconut Flour
Now, stir in one cup of rolled oats and ¼ cup of coconut flour. This forms the bulk of the dough, imparting a great texture and the right consistency. If the mixture feels a bit too sticky, just sprinkle in a little more coconut flour until you reach a workable dough.
Step 5: Fold in Blueberries
Gently fold in half a cup of blueberries, evenly distributing these little bursts of sweetness throughout the mix. Fresh or frozen works, just be sure to handle them delicately so they don’t burst too much and turn your dough blue.
Step 6: Shape and Bake
With your hands or a small scoop, roll the dough into bite-sized balls. Place them on the parchment-lined baking sheet spaced slightly apart. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until the treats are firm and have a light golden hue. Let them cool completely before treating your dog to these homemade goodies.
How to Serve Banana and Blueberry Dog Treats Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a tiny bit of unsweetened shredded coconut or a dusting of finely chopped fresh mint can elevate your treats with fresh flavor and texture, making each bite as interesting as it is delicious.
Side Dishes
Pair these treats with a small bowl of plain yogurt or a fresh carrot stick for an extra special snack time that offers variety and nutrition your dog will appreciate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging the Banana and Blueberry Dog Treats Recipe balls on a festive dog-themed platter or string them together with a bit of keen supervision for a cute edible garland at your next pet party. Presentation can turn an ordinary snack into a memorable event!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store these treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and tasty for up to five days, making them perfect for a week’s worth of happy snack moments for your dog.
Freezing
If you want to prepare in advance or make a larger batch, these treats freeze beautifully. Just pop them in a sealed bag or container and thaw as needed to keep that fresh-baked appeal intact.
Reheating
To restore that freshly baked warmth, simply microwave a treat for a few seconds or warm briefly in an oven preheated to low heat. Serve slightly warmed for an extra inviting snack that smells amazing to your canine companion.
FAQs
Is it safe to give dogs blueberries?
Yes! Blueberries are a fantastic antioxidant-rich fruit safe for dogs in moderation. They provide vitamins and fiber with very few calories, making them an ideal ingredient in healthy treats.
Can I substitute peanut butter with something else?
Absolutely! If your dog has allergies or sensitivities, you can try sunflower seed butter or plain pumpkin puree as alternatives. Just make sure any substitute is free from xylitol or harmful additives.
How big should I make these treats?
Keep the treats bite-sized, about one inch in diameter, to ensure they are easy to chew and portion-controlled, especially for smaller dogs. You can adjust size based on your dog’s preferences and needs.
Can I use frozen blueberries straight from the freezer?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries without thawing, but handle the dough gently to avoid excessive color bleeding. Alternatively, you can thaw and drain them slightly before adding for a more controlled distribution.
Are these treats suitable for dogs with gluten intolerance?
Definitely! By using gluten-free rolled oats, this Banana and Blueberry Dog Treats Recipe remains safe and healthy for dogs sensitive to gluten, without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about preparing treats for your dog from scratch, especially with wholesome ingredients like bananas and blueberries. This Banana and Blueberry Dog Treats Recipe is a wonderful way to show your pup some love while knowing exactly what goes into their snacks. Give it a try, and watch your dog’s tail wag with pure joy over every delicious bite!
Print
Banana and Blueberry Dog Treats Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: About 20 small treats
- Category: Dog Treats
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Homemade Pet Treats
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delicious and healthy Banana and Blueberry Balls made especially for dogs. These bite-sized treats combine natural ingredients like ripe bananas, fresh blueberries, oats, and peanut butter to provide a nutritious snack your furry friend will love. Perfect for rewarding good behavior or simply showing your dog some extra love with wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ½ cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)
- ¼ cup natural peanut butter (unsalted and xylitol-free)
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- ¼ cup coconut flour (plus extra if needed for rolling)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mash the bananas: In a large bowl, thoroughly mash the ripe bananas until smooth to form the base of your dough.
- Mix wet ingredients: Add the natural peanut butter and honey to the mashed bananas and stir until well combined to incorporate sweetness and flavor.
- Add dry ingredients: Stir in the rolled oats and coconut flour gradually, mixing thoroughly to form a workable dough consistency.
- Fold in blueberries: Gently fold the blueberries into the dough to evenly distribute the fruit without smashing them.
- Form the balls: Roll the dough into small, bite-sized balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them spaced evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake the balls in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes, or until they are firm to the touch and lightly golden on the edges.
- Cool and store: Allow the treats to cool completely on a wire rack before serving. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze to extend shelf life.
Notes
- Always use peanut butter that is free from xylitol, as this sweetener is toxic to dogs.
- For variety, you can substitute blueberries with chopped strawberries or grated apple.
- If the dough is too sticky to handle, add a little more coconut flour until it reaches a pliable consistency.
- These treats are intended as supplements and should be fed in moderation alongside your dog’s regular diet.
