A Cozy Christmas Story
The snow outside was barely falling when my dog pressed her nose to the window, tail swaying like she could already smell something baking. That’s when the idea for these Christmas Dog Treats Candy Cane cookies came to life. They look festive, smell warm and sweet, and stay completely dog-safe with natural coloring. There’s something special about baking together during the holidays, with your dog sitting nearby, waiting for a taste.
What Makes These Christmas Dog Treats Candy Cane Special
These treats twist into adorable candy cane shapes and use natural fruit-based color instead of dyes. They bake into soft, chewy ropes that puppies and senior dogs can enjoy. They’re simple to make, fun to shape, and perfect for your dog’s holiday snack box. For more homemade ideas, visit our Dog Treat Recipes category.
Ingredients for Christmas Dog Treats Candy Cane
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Coconut flour (white dough) | ½ cup |
| Egg | 1 |
| Unsweetened applesauce | ¼ cup |
| Melted coconut oil | 1 tbsp |
| Coconut flour (red dough) | ½ cup |
| Egg (red dough) | 1 |
| Unsweetened applesauce (red dough) | ¼ cup |
| Beet purée or freeze-dried strawberry powder | 1 tbsp |
| Optional: Flaxseed | 1 tsp |
| Optional: Greek yogurt | 1 tsp |
How to Make Christmas Dog Treats Candy Cane
Step 1 – Make the White Dough
Mix the coconut flour, applesauce, egg, and melted coconut oil in a bowl. Knead until soft and smooth. Add a tiny splash of water only if needed.
Step 2 – Make the Red Dough
Repeat the same steps in a second bowl, then stir in beet purée or strawberry powder for a bright red, natural color. The dough turns festive without needing any artificial coloring.
Step 3 – Roll Two Dough Ropes
Roll the white dough into long ropes about the thickness of a pencil. Roll the red dough the same way, keeping the shapes even so the candy cane twist looks nice.
Step 4 – Twist Into Candy Canes
Place one red rope and one white rope next to each other. Twist slowly to make the candy cane stripe, then curve the top into a hook. Mini candy canes bake more evenly and hold their shape well.
Step 5 – Bake
Line a tray with parchment paper and place your candy canes on it. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18–22 minutes, depending on size. Let them cool completely. They stay firm and hold their swirl beautifully, even after freezing.
Storage Tips
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for 5–7 days
Freezer: Freeze for 2–3 months
They’re perfect for gifting or prepping ahead for Christmas week.
Treat Portions by Dog Weight
| Dog Weight | Portion | Max Per Day |
|---|---|---|
| Under 20 lbs | Half treat | 1 |
| 20–50 lbs | 1 treat | 2 |
| Over 50 lbs | 1–2 treats | 3 |
Health Benefits
- Coconut flour: Gentle fiber for easy digestion
- Eggs: Natural protein to support muscle health
- Applesauce: Smooth sweetness without added sugar
- Beet or strawberry powder: Natural antioxidants
- Flaxseed: Omega support for skin and coat
Explore more dog-safe ingredients in our Healthy Ingredients section.
Safety Notes
Trusted sources like the AKC and PetMD share that ingredients such as coconut flour, plain eggs, unsweetened applesauce, and natural fruit colorings are generally safe for most dogs when used in moderation. Still, every dog is unique, and reactions can vary.
Introduce new treats slowly.
Watch for signs of sensitivity like tummy upset or itching.
Swap ingredients if your dog has known allergies.
Talk with your veterinarian if your pup has medical needs or a sensitive stomach.
Treats should stay an occasional snack, not a meal substitute.
How My Dog Reacted
When these baked, my dog sat proudly in front of the oven like a little Christmas guard dog, tail tapping softly as she waited. Once cooled, she sniffed one, paused dramatically like she was judging the quality, and then devoured it in a single bite. Now she knows the sound of the coconut flour bag and runs to the kitchen for holiday treat time.
Christmas Dog Treats Candy Cane
Make these festive Christmas Dog Treats Candy Cane cookies with natural red dough and simple ingredients. A soft, wholesome holiday treat your pup will love.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Coconut flour (white dough) | ½ cup |
| Egg | 1 |
| Unsweetened applesauce | ¼ cup |
| Melted coconut oil | 1 tbsp |
| Coconut flour (red dough) | ½ cup |
| Egg (red dough) | 1 |
| Unsweetened applesauce (red dough) | ¼ cup |
| Beet purée or freeze-dried strawberry powder | 1 tbsp |
| Optional: Flaxseed | 1 tsp |
| Optional: Greek yogurt | 1 tsp |
Instructions
Mix the coconut flour, applesauce, egg, and melted coconut oil in a bowl. Knead until soft and smooth. Add a tiny splash of water only if needed.
Step 2 – Make the Red DoughRepeat the same steps in a second bowl, then stir in beet purée or strawberry powder for a bright red, natural color. The dough turns festive without needing any artificial coloring.
Step 3 – Roll Two Dough RopesRoll the white dough into long ropes about the thickness of a pencil. Roll the red dough the same way, keeping the shapes even so the candy cane twist looks nice.
Step 4 – Twist Into Candy CanesPlace one red rope and one white rope next to each other. Twist slowly to make the candy cane stripe, then curve the top into a hook. Mini candy canes bake more evenly and hold their shape well.
Step 5 – Bake
Line a tray with parchment paper and place your candy canes on it. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18–22 minutes, depending on size. Let them cool completely. They stay firm and hold their swirl beautifully, even after freezing.
FAQs
Can I make these treats without eggs?
Yes. Replace the egg with 2 tablespoons of mashed banana, though the dough will be softer.
Can I use food coloring instead of fruit powder?
No. Artificial dyes are unsafe for dogs. Natural beet or strawberry powder works perfectly.
Can puppies eat these treats?
Yes, the texture is soft. Break into small pieces for safe chewing.
What if my dough cracks while rolling?
Add a teaspoon of applesauce to soften the texture.
Do these hold their color after baking?
Yes. The natural red stays bright and cheerful.
Final Takeaway
These Christmas Dog Treats Candy Cane snacks bring warmth, nostalgia, and happy tail wags into your kitchen. Baking them becomes a cozy moment you and your dog can enjoy together, and the cute candy cane twist makes them a holiday tradition worth repeating.