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Crunchy Peanut Butter Dog Training Treats

These Crunchy Peanut Butter Training Treats are crafted with wholesome ingredients and baked into perfectly-sized nuggets ideal for training, rewarding, or just showing some love.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Course: Dog Treats
Cuisine: Dog Food Recipes
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup natural peanut butter unsalted, unsweetened, and xylitol-free: provides protein, healthy fats, and irresistible taste
  • 1 large egg: binds the dough and adds additional protein
  • 2 tbsp unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana: adds moisture and a subtle sweetness
  • ¼ cup water: adjusts consistency
  • 1½ cups oat flour: gentle on sensitive stomachs and helps form the base
  • ½ cup whole-wheat flour optional: adds structure
  • Pinch of ground cinnamon optional: brings aroma and adds health benefits

Equipment

  • A silicone treat mold (mini-cavity style for uniformity)
  • A sturdy baking sheet or tray for support
  • Mixing tools like a bowl, spatula, and measuring cups
  • Optionally, a dough scraper or butter knife to smooth tops

Method
 

  1. Preheat & Prep
    Set your oven to 325 °F (165 °C). Place the silicone mold on a baking tray and lightly grease if it tends to cling. Preheating ensures even baking and a crunchy exterior.
  2. Mix the Dough
    Combine peanut butter, egg, and applesauce (or banana) until smooth. Stir in oat and optional wheat flour plus cinnamon. Gradually add water until the dough is pliable—not sticky nor dry. This balance is key to shaping crisp, consistent treats.
  3. Fill the Mold
    Press the dough firmly into each cavity, filling them evenly. Smooth off the top to ensure treats bake uniformly. The first time takes patience—but once you get the groove, it becomes a meditative, satisfying process.
  4. Bake
    Bake for 22–30 minutes, depending on thickness and oven heat. When the timer dings, leave the tray in the turned-off oven for an additional 30–60 minutes to dehydrate the treats further. This gives them a sturdier crunch that lasts.
  5. Cool & Release
    Allow the treats to cool completely before popping them out. They should release cleanly; if they stick, run the tray back in the warm oven briefly. Transfer treats to a wire rack to finish cooling and firming up.
  6. Storage & Shelf Life
    Once cooled, your crunchy bites can be stored in several ways:

Notes

Once cooled, your crunchy bites can be stored in several ways:
Room temperature: Airtight container for up to 2 weeks, perfect for quick access
Refrigerator: Extends freshness to 3 weeks
Freezer: Thaw and enjoy over 3 months—just grab individually as needed