Your pup’s tail will wag with joy over these Homemade Peanut Butter Bacon Dog Treats, packed with irresistible flavors and wholesome ingredients. The rich, nutty aroma of peanut butter blends perfectly with the smoky, savory crunch of bacon, creating a treat that’s as delightful to smell as it is to eat. With just 10 minutes of prep and 32 minutes of baking, you can whip up a batch of these golden, chewy delights that are sure to become your dog’s new favorite.
These treats aren’t just delicious—they’re crafted with love, offering a healthier alternative to store-bought options. The soft yet slightly firm texture is perfect for satisfying your pup’s chewing instincts, while the combination of flavors keeps them coming back for more. In under an hour, you’ll have 15 four-inch treats ready to reward your furry friend with a snack they’ll adore.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup (255g) natural creamy peanut butter (ensure it’s xylitol-free for dog safety)
- 3/4 cup (180ml) nonfat milk
- 1 large egg or 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce (as an egg substitute)
- 2 cups (244g) whole wheat flour* (spooned & leveled)
- 1 Tablespoon baking powder
- 1/3 cup (28g) oats* (old-fashioned or quick oats work)
- 2–3 strips cooked bacon, chopped (cooled before adding)
How to Make It
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, gently mix the peanut butter, milk, and egg (or applesauce) together using a wooden spoon or silicone spatula until combined.
- Add the flour and baking powder to the mixture. The dough will be very thick, so you may need to turn it out onto a floured surface and use your hands to work in the flour.
- Mix in the oats and chopped bacon until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Using a floured rolling pin, roll the dough out to a 1/4″ thickness. Cut into shapes using cookie cutters and arrange them on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the bottoms are very lightly browned. Remove from the oven, flip the treats, and bake for another 10-12 minutes.
- Allow the treats to cool completely before serving to your pup. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Once cooled, store these peanut butter bacon dog treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. If reheating, simply pop them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes to restore their crunch.
Recipe Variations for Picky Pups
If your dog has specific preferences or dietary needs, try swapping out ingredients. Use almond butter or sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter, or substitute the whole wheat flour with coconut flour or oat flour. For a bacon-free option, replace it with shredded carrots or chopped parsley for a fresh twist.
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Pet Parents
To save time, prepare the dough the night before and refrigerate it overnight. When ready, simply roll, cut, and bake. Alternatively, skip the cookie cutters and slice the dough into 1-inch squares for quick and easy treats. You can also double the batch and freeze half for future use.
Equipment Guidance for Perfect Treats
For best results, use a silicone baking mat or parchment paper to prevent sticking. A floured rolling pin ensures the dough rolls out smoothly, and dog-themed cookie cutters add a fun touch. If you don’t have cutters, a pizza cutter or knife works just as well for shaping.
Special Notes for Dog Safety
Always use natural peanut butter without added sugar or xylitol, as xylitol is toxic to dogs. Ensure the bacon is fully cooked and free of seasoning or spices. If your dog has allergies, consult your vet before introducing new ingredients. These treats are meant as occasional snacks, not a meal replacement.
Homemade Peanut Butter Bacon Dog Treats
Ingredients
- 1 cup natural creamy peanut butter 255g
- 3/4 cup nonfat milk 180ml
- 1 large egg or 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2 cups whole wheat flour 244g (spooned & leveled)
- 1 Tablespoon baking powder
- 1/3 cup oats 28g
- 2–3 strips cooked bacon chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, gently mix the peanut butter, milk, and egg together with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula. Add the flour and baking powder. You may need to turn the dough out onto a floured work surface and use your hands to work in the flour. Mix in the oats and bacon. The dough is extremely thick and heavy.
- Using a floured rolling pin, roll the dough out into 1/4″ thickness. Cut into shapes using cookie cutters. Arrange on the baking sheets. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until very lightly browned on the bottom. Remove from the oven, and flip the treats to bake the other side for 10-12 more minutes.
- Allow to cool completely before serving to your pup. Cover and store leftovers at room temperature for up to 1 week or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.