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Homemade Dog Donuts

These homemade dog donuts are soft, simple treats made with dog friendly ingredients. They are easy to bake, easy to portion, and make a fun homemade alternative to packaged dog treats.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 8 Donuts
Course: Dog Treats
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 | cup | whole wheat flour | I use whole wheat flour for a simple baked treat base
  • 1 | teaspoon | baking powder | Helps the donuts rise slightly
  • 1 | | egg | Helps bind the ingredients together
  • 1/2 | cup | plain pumpkin puree | I use plain pumpkin with no added sugar salt, or spices
  • 1/4 | cup | unsweetened applesauce | Adds moisture and natural sweetness
  • 2 | tablespoons | natural peanut butter | Use xylitol free peanut butter with no added chocolate or sweeteners
  • 2 | tablespoons | water | Add a little more if the batter is too thick

Equipment

  • 1 | Donut pan | A small silicone or nonstick donut pan works well1 | Mixing bowl | For combining the ingredients1 | Measuring cups and spoons | For accurate measurements1 | Spoon or spatula | For mixing the batter1 | Cooling rack | For cooling the donuts after baking

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease the donut pan so the baked treats release easily.
  2. Add the whole wheat flour and baking powder to a mixing bowl. Stir to distribute the baking powder evenly.
  3. Add the egg, pumpkin puree, applesauce, and peanut butter. Mix until the ingredients form a thick, smooth batter.
  4. Add the water gradually and mix again. The batter should be thick enough to hold its shape but soft enough to spoon into the donut pan.
  5. Spoon the mixture into the donut cavities, filling each one about three quarters full. Smooth the tops with the back of a spoon.
  6. Bake for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until the donuts are firm and lightly golden around the edges.
  7. Remove the pan from the oven and let the donuts cool for several minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
  8. Allow the donuts to cool completely before serving them to your dog.
Recipe Notes
  1. Storage: Keep the cooled donuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
  2. Serving: Give these as an occasional treat rather than replacing your dog's regular balanced diet. Break a donut into smaller pieces for smaller dogs.
  3. Peanut Butter Safety: Always check the ingredient label and make sure the peanut butter contains no xylitol. Xylitol is highly toxic to dogs.
  4. Common Mistake to Avoid: Avoid adding sugar, chocolate, raisins, grapes, or artificial sweeteners to homemade dog treats. Also let the donuts cool completely before serving.
  5. Texture Tip: For softer donuts, avoid overbaking them. If your dog prefers a firmer crunchy treat, allow the finished donuts to cool completely and leave them exposed to air briefly before storing.