A Holiday Treat Story
When the snow starts falling and your kitchen fills with the smell of cookies, your pup shouldn’t be left out of the fun! These Christmas treats for dogs are made with simple, wholesome ingredients that bring a little holiday cheer to every wagging tail. I made my first batch while decorating the tree my golden retriever, Bailey, waited patiently by the oven. The moment they cooled, she gave her official “paws-up” approval. Your pup will too!
Table of Contents
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Brown rice flour | 1⅓ cups (170g) |
| Plain natural peanut butter (sugar & salt-free) | ⅓ cup (90g) |
| Egg | 1 |
| Ripe banana | 1 |
| Organic honey | 3 tablespoons |
| Beet powder | ¼ cup (25g) |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine all ingredients except the beet powder. Stir until smooth and well-incorporated.
- Mix in the beet powder with your hands. The dough should be firm, not sticky. Add extra rice flour if needed.
- Place dough between two parchment sheets and roll to ¼-inch thickness. Use festive cookie cutters—bones, stars, or trees are perfect!
- Transfer shapes to the baking sheet and chill for 15 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Bake for 10 minutes for 2-inch cookies or 12–15 minutes for larger ones. Let them cool completely before serving.
Safety Note: Always allow treats to cool fully before giving them to your dog to avoid mouth burns.
Storage Tips
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for 2 weeks.
- Freezer: Freeze up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.
Keep them away from moisture to maintain that soft, chewy texture your pup loves.
Serving Sizes by Dog Weight
| Dog Weight | Portion | Max per Day |
|---|---|---|
| Under 20 lbs | ½ cookie | 1–2 treats |
| 20–50 lbs | 1 cookie | 2–3 treats |
| Over 50 lbs | 2 cookies | 3–4 treats |
Always adjust portions based on your dog’s diet and activity level. Ask your vet before changing your pup’s calorie intake.
Nutritional Benefits
- Peanut Butter: Rich in protein and healthy fats for energy.
- Banana: Packed with potassium and natural sweetness.
- Brown Rice Flour: Gentle on sensitive tummies and gluten-free.
- Beet Powder: Adds festive color and antioxidants for immune support.
- Honey: Natural source of sweetness and mild antibacterial benefits.
FAQs About Christmas Treats for Dogs
1. Can I use regular flour instead of brown rice flour?
Yes, but rice flour is easier to digest and gluten-free, making it a safer option for sensitive pups.
2. Are these treats safe for puppies?
Yes, in small portions! Make sure your puppy is at least 3 months old and chewing solids easily.
3. Can I use carob instead of beet powder?
Absolutely! Carob gives a chocolate-like flavor that’s 100% dog-safe.
4. How do I make these crunchier?
Bake them 3–4 minutes longer and let them cool on the oven rack.
5. Can I make these treats ahead of time?
Yes! Store them in the freezer and thaw overnight before your next treat time.
Happy Holiday Takeaway
Nothing says “Merry Christmas” like baking a batch of Christmas treats for dogs and watching your pup’s tail wag with joy. These bright pink, peanut buttery cookies bring the holiday spirit right to your kitchen. Bake with love, share with joy, and make every treat time a little moment of Christmas magic.
