A Sweet Moment with Snickers
Most days in my house are a whirlwind of school runs, laundry piles, and a dog who somehow hears the pantry open from two rooms away. When time is short but I still want to give Snickers something special, these no-bake applesauce dog treats are my secret weapon.
Five simple ingredients, one bowl, and zero baking. It’s the kind of treat that fits right into real life. My kids love rolling them into little oat-covered balls while Snickers waits patiently for his turn. Simple treats, happy kids, happy pup — that’s a win for everyone.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These 5-Ingredient Dog Treats
Gentle on Digestion
Applesauce, pumpkin, and yogurt work together to support a healthy tummy. You get probiotics, prebiotics, and soluble fiber a happy combo for good digestion.
Natural Energy Boost
Oats give your pup steady energy without the sugar spikes that come with some commercial treats.
Tail-Wagging Flavor
The mix of sweet applesauce, creamy peanut butter, and pumpkin creates an irresistible flavor even picky dogs love.
No-Bake Applesauce Dog Treats Recipe
Makes: About 20–25 soft treats (depending on size)
Focus Keyword: dog treats
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Unsweetened applesauce | ½ cup |
| Plain pumpkin puree | ½ cup |
| Creamy natural peanut butter | ½ cup |
| Plain Greek yogurt | ¼ cup |
| Old-fashioned oats | 1¾ cups |
Ingredient Notes:
Use unsweetened applesauce (only apples and ascorbic acid on the label).
Choose plain pumpkin puree, never pumpkin pie filling (nutmeg is unsafe).
Always check peanut butter for xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
Pick plain Greek yogurt, no sugar or flavoring added.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep Your Space:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Pour ½ cup oats into a bowl for coating. - Warm and Ready Ingredients:
Let peanut butter come to room temperature and stir yogurt if separated. - Make the Wet Base:
In a large bowl, whisk together applesauce, pumpkin puree, and yogurt until smooth. - Add the Oats:
Stir in oats and let sit 2–3 minutes to thicken. - Mix in Peanut Butter:
Add peanut butter last and fold until well combined. The dough should stick together but not feel wet. - Adjust if Needed:
Too wet? Add more oats (2 tablespoons at a time).
Too dry? Add applesauce (1 tablespoon at a time). - Shape the Treats:
Roll into small balls (½–1 inch depending on dog size) and coat lightly in oats. - Chill to Set:
Place on your tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. One hour gives the best soft-yet-firm texture.
Storage and Freshness Tips
Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers with parchment between layers. Stays fresh for 10–12 days.
Freezer: Freeze on a tray, then store in freezer bags for up to 4 months.
Serve Cold or Thawed: Serve straight from the fridge or let soften for 10–15 minutes at room temperature.
Tip: Frozen treats make a cool summer snack or teething relief for puppies.
Serving Guidelines
| Dog Weight | Treat Size | Max Per Day |
|---|---|---|
| 5–15 lbs | ½ inch ball | 1–2 treats |
| 16–30 lbs | ¾ inch ball | 2–3 treats |
| 31–50 lbs | ¾ inch ball | 3–4 treats |
| 51–70 lbs | 1 inch ball | 4–5 treats |
| 71+ lbs | 1 inch ball | 5–6 treats |
Vet Tip: For diabetic dogs, use sugar-free applesauce and check with your vet before serving. Always adjust treat portions based on your dog’s diet and activity level.
Nutritional Benefits
- Oats: Great source of fiber and slow-releasing energy.
- Applesauce: Adds natural sweetness and vitamin C.
- Pumpkin: Supports digestion and firm stools.
- Peanut Butter: Protein-rich binder dogs love.
- Greek Yogurt: Adds calcium and healthy probiotics.
Learn more about safe, healthy dog treat ingredients at AKC’s nutrition section.
5-Ingredient No-Bake Applesauce Dog Treats
Five simple ingredients, one bowl, and zero baking. It’s the kind of treat that fits right into real life.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Unsweetened applesauce | ½ cup |
| Plain pumpkin puree | ½ cup |
| Creamy natural peanut butter | ½ cup |
| Plain Greek yogurt | ¼ cup |
| Old-fashioned oats | 1¾ cups |
Instructions
-
Prep Your Space:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Pour ½ cup oats into a bowl for coating. -
Warm and Ready Ingredients:
Let peanut butter come to room temperature and stir yogurt if separated. -
Make the Wet Base:
In a large bowl, whisk together applesauce, pumpkin puree, and yogurt until smooth. -
Add the Oats:
Stir in oats and let sit 2–3 minutes to thicken. -
Mix in Peanut Butter:
Add peanut butter last and fold until well combined. The dough should stick together but not feel wet. -
Adjust if Needed:
Too wet? Add more oats (2 tablespoons at a time).
Too dry? Add applesauce (1 tablespoon at a time). -
Shape the Treats:
Roll into small balls (½–1 inch depending on dog size) and coat lightly in oats. -
Chill to Set:
Place on your tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. One hour gives the best soft-yet-firm texture.
FAQs
1. My dog can’t have dairy. What can I use instead?
Swap Greek yogurt for plain coconut yogurt. It changes the flavor slightly but keeps the same soft texture.
2. Can puppies eat these dog treats?
Yes. Puppies over 12 weeks old can enjoy small portions. Always start with tiny pieces to test tolerance.
3. How long do these treats last?
Up to 12 days refrigerated or 4 months frozen.
4. Can senior dogs eat them?
Definitely. The soft texture makes them perfect for older pups with sensitive teeth.
5. Can I use instant oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
You can, but the texture will be softer and less chewy. Old-fashioned oats give a better bite.
Final Treat Time Thoughts
That’s the magic of these no-bake dog treats — easy, healthy, and full of love. In just a few minutes, you can make something homemade that shows your pup how much they mean to you. Make treat time the happiest part of your day.