Name: Banana Dog Treats Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: Pet Food
Ingredients: 3 1/2 cups oats (divided: 2 1/2 cups ground, 1 cup whole); 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1 tablespoon flax seed or chia seeds (optional); 3 medium bananas, mashed

Jump to Recipe

There is something undeniably delightful about making your own dog snacks, especially when they are as wholesome and tasty as these Banana Dog Treats. Packed with natural ingredients like ripe bananas, oats, and just a hint of cinnamon, these treats are not only simple to prepare but also incredibly nourishing for your furry friend. Crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, these treats will have tails wagging and puppy eyes begging for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully selected to contribute flavor, texture, and nutrition, making Banana Dog Treats both yummy and healthy for your dog.

3 1/2 cups oats: The base ingredient that brings texture and fiber to the treats.
3 medium bananas: Adds natural sweetness and moisture, making the treats soft and flavorful.
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: A subtle spice that enhances flavor and offers antioxidant benefits.
1 Tablespoon flax seed (or chia seeds, optional): Boosts nutritional value with omega-3 fatty acids and fiber.

How to Make Banana Dog Treats

Step 1: Mash the Bananas

Start by peeling and mashing the ripe bananas in a large mixing bowl until you get a smooth consistency. The bananas are what make these treats naturally sweet and moist, so make sure they are well mashed for an even texture.

Step 2: Grind the Oats

Place 2 1/2 cups of the oats into a food processor and pulse until you achieve a flour-like consistency. This ground oat flour will help bind your dough and give it just the right structure.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

Add the ground oats back into the mixing bowl with the mashed bananas. Next, stir in the remaining 1 cup of whole oats, ground cinnamon, and flax seeds (if you choose to use them). Mix well, and depending on the dough’s texture, adjust by adding a little more oats if too sticky or a splash of banana, honey, or water if too dry. The dough should hold together without being sticky.

Step 4: Preheat and Prepare to Roll

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly dust your work surface with either flour or additional ground oats to prevent sticking. Roll the dough out to about 1/4 inch thick, which ensures the treats bake evenly and attain that perfect crunch or softness depending on your preference.

Step 5: Cut Into Fun Shapes

Use any cookie cutters you love to shape the treats. Place the cutouts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy removal and cleanup.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Bake the treats for 15 minutes at 350 degrees. For crunchy treats, turn off the oven and leave them inside for an additional two hours. If you prefer softer treats, simply remove them after baking and cool at room temperature.

How to Serve Banana Dog Treats

Garnishes

While Banana Dog Treats are fantastic on their own, you can enhance their appeal by lightly brushing them with a little unsweetened peanut butter once cooled. This adds a tempting aroma and extra flavor that most dogs can’t resist.

Side Dishes

Treats like these are perfect snacks between meals, but they also pair beautifully with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt on the side for a creamy contrast. It’s a delightful combo for dogs who enjoy a bit of extra indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions or training sessions, try stacking a few Banana Dog Treats and securing them with a dog-safe ribbon or placing them in a cute treat jar. Another fun idea is to freeze the treats on a sunny day, giving your pup a cool and refreshing snack.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Banana Dog Treats left over, store soft varieties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Hard or crunchy treats keep nicely at room temperature for around three weeks, making them convenient to have on hand.

Freezing

These treats freeze wonderfully, which is perfect if you want to prepare a large batch. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they will keep their flavor and texture for several months. Just thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

If you want to warm up the treats for a little extra aroma, simply heat them in the oven at a low temperature (around 250 degrees) for a few minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy or dry.

FAQs

Are Banana Dog Treats safe for all dogs?

Yes, these treats are made from all-natural ingredients that are generally safe for most dogs. However, always introduce new treats gradually and consult your vet if your dog has food sensitivities or allergies.

Can I substitute the oats for another grain?

Oats are preferred due to their gentle fiber content and digestibility, but you can try quinoa flakes or brown rice flour if your dog has oat allergies. Just check how these substitutions affect dough consistency.

What if my dog doesn’t like cinnamon?

Cinnamon adds a nice flavor and health benefits, but if your dog dislikes it or has sensitivity, you can simply leave it out. The treats will still be delicious!

How long do Banana Dog Treats last?

Soft treats last about two weeks refrigerated, while the crunchy ones can stay fresh at room temperature for up to three weeks. Proper storage is key to maintaining freshness.

Can I add other ingredients to the treat mix?

Absolutely! Small amounts of shredded carrots, pumpkin puree, or chopped parsley make great additions and boost nutrition. Just be mindful of not adding anything toxic to dogs like onion or garlic.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to pamper your pup with something homey, nutritious, and downright delicious, these Banana Dog Treats are exactly what you need. They’re easy to make, customizable, and adored by dogs big and small. Give this recipe a try and watch your furry friend’s face light up with joy!

Banana Dog Treats Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 16 reviews

Author: lilan
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including cooling time for crunchy treats)
Yield: Approximately 30 small dog treats 1x
Diet: Halal

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Description

These homemade Banana Dog Treats are a healthy, natural snack your furry friend will love. Made with simple ingredients like oats, bananas, cinnamon, and optional flax seeds, these treats are easy to prepare, grain-friendly, and perfect for keeping your pup happy and satisfied without any artificial additives.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

3 1/2 cups oats (divided: 2 1/2 cups ground, 1 cup whole)
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon flax seed or chia seeds (optional)

Wet Ingredients

3 medium bananas, mashed

Instructions

Mash the Bananas: In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly mash the three medium bananas until smooth to create the wet base for your dough.
Grind the Oats: Place 2 1/2 cups of the oats into a food processor and pulse until they have a fine, flour-like texture. Transfer the ground oats into the mixing bowl with the mashed bananas.
Combine Ingredients: Add the remaining 1 cup of whole oats, 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, and 1 tablespoon of flax seed (if using) to the bowl. Mix everything together until combined. If the mixture feels too wet, gradually add more oats; if it’s too dry, add a little banana, honey, or water to achieve a dough that holds together but is not sticky.
Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly dust your work surface with flour or additional ground oats. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness for even cooking.
Cut Treat Shapes: Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut the dough into treat shapes. Arrange the cutouts on a silicone baking mat or parchment paper–lined baking sheet.
Bake and Crisp: Bake the treats at 350°F for 15 minutes. For crunchy treats, turn off the oven and leave the treats inside to cool for two hours. For softer treats, remove them from the oven right after baking and let cool at room temperature.
Storage: Store soft treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Hard treats can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 weeks, making them convenient for long-term snacking.

Notes

You can substitute flax seeds with chia seeds for additional omega-3s.
Ensure all ingredients are dog-friendly and avoid adding honey if your dog is diabetic.
Adjust oat quantity as needed to get the perfect dough consistency.
Always consult with your veterinarian before introducing new treats into your dog’s diet, especially if they have allergies or dietary restrictions.
For added variety, consider mixing in small pieces of dog-safe fruits or vegetables (e.g., blueberries or grated carrots).

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dog Treats
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Pet Food