Pumpkin and Peanut Butter Dog Treats

Air Fryer Pumpkin & Peanut Butter Treats

Christmas is a time for giving—and that includes your furry friends and the beloved dogs of your family and friends! What better way to spread cheer than with homemade treats that are healthy, delicious, and made with love? These air fryer pumpkin and peanut butter dog treats are easy to make, festive, and perfect as Christmas gifts for the special pups in your life.

Why Make Homemade Dog Treats for Christmas?

Shop -bought treats are great, but homemade ones show an extra layer of thoughtfulness. Plus, when you make your own, you can ensure every ingredient is dog-safe and healthy. Pumpkin is fantastic for digestion, and peanut butter is a protein-packed favourite for dogs. Together, they create an irresistible gift.

Ingredients

This recipe uses simple, dog-safe ingredients that are likely already in your cupboards.

• 
  
  1/2 cup pumpkin puree (pure pumpkin only, no pumpkin pie filling)
• 
  
  1/4 cup natural peanut butter (unsweetened, xylitol-free)
• 
  
  1 large egg (for binding)
• 
  
  1 cup oat flour (Blitz oats in the food processor to make flour)
• 
  
  1/4 cup rolled oats (optional, for texture)

 

• Mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• 
  
  Christmas themed cookie cutters (think bones, paws, or festive shapes like stars, trees, or gingerbread dogs!)
• Air fryer
• 
  
  Decorative packaging (like treat bags, ribbons, or small tins, Charity shops are a great source for tins and jars)

How to Make the Treats

Step 1: Make the Dough

1. Combine the pumpkin puree, peanut butter, and egg in a mixing bowl until smooth.
2. Gradually add the oat flour, stirring until a dough forms. If using whole oats, fold them in last. The dough should be firm and not overly sticky. add more flour if necessary

Step 2: Shape into Christmas Designs

1. Roll the dough to about 1cm thickness. Use your cookie cutters to create festive shapes.
2. Ensure treats are of similar size to ensure even cooking in the air fryer.

Step 3: Cook in the Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer to 150°C.
2. Arrange the treats in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving a little space between each.
3. Cook for 10-12 minutes, Treats are done when they’re firm and golden. NB: You can cook in conventional oven but adjust the temperature to get a crisp biscuit.

Step 4: Cool and Decorate

• Let the treats cool completely. If you want to make them extra festive, consider adding a touch of dog-safe icing made from plain yogurt or coconut oil.

Once your treats are ready, it’s time to package them into gifts! Here are some ideas:

• 
  
  Treat Bags: Fill clear cellophane treat bags, tie them with a festive ribbon, and add a cute gift tag with the dog’s name.
• 
  
  Reusable Tins: Place the treats in small decorative tins or jars for a sustainable, stylish option.
• 
  
  Personalised Touch: Add a handwritten note with the recipe or a sweet message to make the gift extra special.

Important Safety Tips

• 
  
  Check Peanut Butter Labels: Make sure it’s xylitol-free, as xylitol is toxic to dogs.
• 
  
  Gift Fresh: These treats are best when consumed within a week if refrigerated or up to three months if frozen. Include storage instructions with your gift! Make ahead and freeze to pull out as needed.

Homemade air fryer dog treats are a gift that’s as thoughtful as it is practical. Not only will dogs love the flavor of pumpkin and peanut butter, but their owners will appreciate your effort in creating something special and healthy.

Make a big batch this Christmas and spread the joy to every four-legged friend on your gift list. It’s a pawsitively perfect way to celebrate the holiday season!

We have made a reel on Instagram for a little inspiration, do pop over and take a look.