Study how to make homemade apple and banana dog treats using fresh, wholesome ingredients your dog will love.
These simple treats are easy to prepare, naturally sweet, and perfect for training, rewarding good behavior, or simply showing your furry friend a little extra love.
I first made these treats on a rainy afternoon when I had a couple of ripe bananas sitting on the kitchen counter and a few apples that needed to be used.
Instead of baking another loaf of banana bread, I decided to make something special for my dog.
After checking which ingredients were safe for dogs, I started experimenting with a simple recipe using ingredients I already had at home.
The moment these treats came out of the oven, my dog was sitting right beside the kitchen waiting patiently.
As soon as they cooled enough to taste, the first one disappeared in seconds.
Ever since then, these homemade treats have become one of my favorite recipes to make because they are simple, affordable, and always a big hit.
Whether you are looking for a healthier alternative to many store bought treats or simply enjoy making homemade snacks for your dog, this recipe is a great place to start.
Are Apple and Banana Dog Treats Healthy?
Yes, when made with dog safe ingredients, apple and banana treats can be a healthy snack.
Apples provide fiber and important vitamins, while bananas contain natural carbohydrates along with potassium and vitamin B6.
Combined with wholesome ingredients like oats and eggs, these treats become a nutritious snack that most dogs enjoy.
Like any treat, they should be fed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Why I Love This Recipe
I have tried several homemade dog treat recipes over the years, but I keep coming back to this one because it is quick, simple, and made with everyday ingredients.
Here are a few reasons why I enjoy making these treats.
- Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients.
- Naturally sweet without added sugar.
- Great for meal prepping.
- Freezer friendly.
- Soft enough for many adult and senior dogs.
- Perfect for training rewards or everyday treats.
Why These Ingredients Work Together
I like this recipe because every ingredient has an important job.
Together, they make treats that are tasty, easy to make, and enjoyable for dogs.
Apples add natural sweetness, fiber, and a little freshness to the treats.
Bananas help hold the dough together while adding natural sweetness and moisture.
Rolled oats give the treats their texture and provide fiber to help support healthy digestion.
The egg holds all the ingredients together so the dough is easy to mix, roll out, and shape.
When these simple ingredients are combined, they create soft, homemade treats that are full of flavor and perfect for rewarding your dog.
Who These Treats Are Best For
These homemade treats are suitable for most healthy adult dogs and can be enjoyed by many puppies once they are eating solid foods.
They also work well for dogs that enjoy softer treats instead of crunchy biscuits.
If your dog has food allergies or follows a special diet recommended by your veterinarian, always check that each ingredient is appropriate before introducing a new treat.
Before We Start
One thing I have learned from making homemade dog treats is that they do not have to be complicated to be delicious.
Some of the best recipes use just a handful of fresh ingredients that work beautifully together.
In the next section, I will show you exactly what ingredients you need, explain why each one is included, and walk you through the recipe step by step so you can make these healthy treats with confidence.
Ingredients You Will Need
One of my favorite things about these homemade dog treats is that the ingredient list is short and simple.
I almost always have everything I need in my kitchen, which makes this one of the easiest recipes to prepare when I want to make something special for my dog.
Each ingredient has an important role in creating soft, flavorful treats that are easy to make and enjoyable for most dogs.
Apple
Fresh apples add natural sweetness, fiber, and important vitamins.
I always peel the apple and remove the core and seeds before using it because apple seeds are not safe for dogs.
I like grating the apple into small pieces so it mixes evenly throughout the dough.
Banana
A ripe banana naturally sweetens the treats without the need for added sugar.
It also helps keep the treats soft while adding potassium, vitamin B6, and fiber.
I usually choose a banana with a few brown spots because it mashes easily and blends smoothly into the mixture.
Old Fashioned Oats
Old fashioned oats are one of my favorite ingredients for homemade dog treats.
They provide fiber, help create the texture of the treats, and are gentle on most dogs’ stomachs.
I usually blend the oats into a fine flour before mixing the dough, which gives the treats a softer texture.
Egg
Egg helps hold all the ingredients together while adding extra protein and healthy fats.
It also makes the dough easier to shape before baking.
Natural Peanut Butter
Natural peanut butter adds flavor that most dogs absolutely love.
I always choose peanut butter that contains no xylitol, added sugar, or artificial sweeteners.
Reading the label only takes a moment, and it is one habit I never skip.
Ingredients List
- 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and grated
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- 2 cups old fashioned oats
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons natural peanut butter
Kitchen Tools
You only need a few basic kitchen tools to prepare these treats.
- Large mixing bowl
- Fork or potato masher
- Box grater
- Food processor or blender
- Measuring cups
- Baking tray
- Parchment paper
- Cookie cutter or knife
- Cooling rack
How to Make Apple and Banana Dog Treats
This is one of those recipes I enjoy making because it is simple, the ingredients come together quickly, and my dog seems to know exactly what is happening before I even finish gathering everything.
As soon as I peel the banana or open the peanut butter, I have a furry shadow sitting patiently in the kitchen, waiting for the first taste.
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
This keeps the treats from sticking and makes cleanup much easier once you’re finished baking.
Step 2
Add the rolled oats to a food processor or blender and blend until they resemble a fine flour.
This gives the dough a smoother texture and helps the finished treats hold together nicely.
Step 3
In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe banana until it is mostly smooth.
Add the grated apple, egg, and natural peanut butter, then stir everything together until the mixture is well combined.
Step 4
Gradually mix the oat flour into the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms.
If the dough feels a little sticky, let it rest for five minutes.
The oats will absorb some of the moisture, making the dough much easier to roll out.
Step 5
Lightly sprinkle a little extra oat flour onto your work surface and roll the dough to about ¼ inch thick.
Cut out your favorite shapes using cookie cutters or simply slice the dough into small squares with a knife.
I usually make smaller treats because they are perfect for training sessions and everyday rewards.
Step 6
Arrange the treats on the prepared baking tray, leaving a little space between each one.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
If your dog prefers softer treats, remove them as soon as they are baked through.
For a crunchier texture, leave them in the oven for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, keeping an eye on them so they do not overbake.
Step 7
Transfer the treats to a wire rack and allow them to cool completely before serving.
This is always the hardest part in my house because the warm smell of apples and peanut butter fills the kitchen, and my dog patiently waits nearby, hoping one of the treats is ready just a little sooner.
Tips for the Best Homemade Dog Treats
These are a few simple tips that have helped me get great results every time.
- Use ripe bananas for the best natural sweetness.
- Always remove the apple seeds and core before preparing the apple.
- Choose natural peanut butter without xylitol or artificial sweeteners.
- Blend the oats into a fine flour for a softer texture.
- Make smaller treats for training rewards.
- Allow the treats to cool completely before storing them.
- Store extras in the freezer so you always have fresh treats ready whenever your dog deserves a reward.
These homemade apple and banana dog treats have become one of the recipes I make most often because they are simple, affordable, and always disappear quickly.
Every time I bake a fresh batch, my dog patiently waits by the oven, hoping the cooling time passes just a little faster.
How Many Apple and Banana Dog Treats Can Dogs Eat?
One of the questions I get asked most often is how many homemade treats a dog should have each day.
Even though these treats are made with healthy ingredients, they are still treats and should be given in moderation.
The right amount depends on your dog’s size, age, activity level, and daily calorie needs.
As a general guide, small dogs can enjoy one small treat a day, while medium and larger dogs can usually have two or three.
If you use these treats for training, consider making them into smaller bite sized pieces so you can reward your dog more often without overfeeding.
I always make sure treats are only a small part of my dog’s overall diet, with most of the daily nutrition coming from balanced meals.
How to Store Homemade Dog Treats
One of the reasons I love this recipe is that it stores beautifully.
After the treats have cooled completely, place them in an airtight container.
They will stay fresh at room temperature for up to three days if your home is cool and dry.
For longer freshness, store them in the refrigerator for up to one week.
I usually make a double batch and freeze the extra treats in a freezer safe container or storage bag.
They keep well for up to three months, and I simply thaw a few whenever I need them.
Can You Customize This Recipe?
Absolutely.
One of the best things about homemade dog treats is that you can make small changes while still keeping the recipe simple.
You can replace the apple with pear or pumpkin puree if your dog enjoys different flavors.
You can also substitute the peanut butter with natural almond butter that is safe for dogs or sunflower seed butter if your dog has a peanut allergy.
If you decide to try new ingredients, introduce only one change at a time so you can easily see how your dog responds.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making homemade dog treats is simple, but there are a few things I always keep in mind.
Leaving Apple Seeds in the Fruit
Apple flesh is perfectly safe for dogs, but the seeds and core should always be removed before preparing the recipe.
Using Peanut Butter with Xylitol
This is one ingredient I always double check.
Some peanut butter brands contain xylitol, an artificial sweetener that is extremely dangerous for dogs.
Reading the ingredient label only takes a few seconds and is always worth the effort.
Making the Treats Too Large
Large treats can quickly add extra calories.
I prefer making smaller treats because they are perfect for everyday rewards and training sessions.
Overbaking
Leaving the treats in the oven too long can make them overly hard.
If your dog prefers softer treats, remove them as soon as they are lightly golden around the edges.
Feeding Too Many Treats
Even healthy homemade treats should be enjoyed in moderation.
I always balance treats with my dog’s regular meals to help maintain a healthy weight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can dogs eat apples every day?
Yes, dogs can enjoy apples in moderation as long as the seeds and core have been removed.
Are bananas good for dogs?
Yes. Bananas provide natural sweetness along with potassium, vitamin B6, and fiber, making them a great ingredient for homemade treats.
Can I use quick oats instead of old fashioned oats?
Yes, although old fashioned oats usually create a slightly better texture. Both can work well in this recipe.
Can I freeze these treats?
Absolutely. Freezing is one of my favorite ways to keep homemade treats fresh for longer.
How long do homemade dog treats last?
They stay fresh for about three days at room temperature, one week in the refrigerator, and up to three months in the freezer when stored properly.
Are these treats suitable for puppies?
Most puppies that have started eating solid foods can enjoy these treats in small amounts. If your puppy has special dietary needs, check with your veterinarian first.
Can I make these treats without peanut butter?
Yes. You can use plain pumpkin puree or another dog safe alternative if needed.
Final Thoughts
These apple and banana dog treats have become one of my favorite homemade recipes because they are simple, affordable, and made with ingredients I already keep in my kitchen. They are quick to prepare, easy to store, and always bring plenty of excitement whenever my dog sees me take out the mixing bowl.
What I enjoy most is knowing exactly what goes into every treat. There are no unnecessary fillers or ingredients I cannot recognize, just wholesome foods combined into a snack that my dog genuinely enjoys.
If you have never made homemade dog treats before, this recipe is a wonderful place to begin. It is simple enough for beginners, easy to customize, and perfect for making a batch that will keep your furry friend happily wagging their tail for days.
The biggest reward for me is watching my dog eagerly wait by the kitchen, knowing a fresh homemade treat is on the way. Moments like that make every minute spent baking completely worthwhile.
