As I watched my pup eagerly wait by the kitchen, tail wagging and eyes sparkling, I knew it was time for a special treat. That’s when I decided to whip up these Easy Homemade Air Fryer Dog Treats with Pumpkin and Peanut Butter. What I love about this recipe is not just its simplicity—giving me more time to spend with my furry friend—but also that it’s a healthy alternative to those store-bought snacks often packed with preservatives. Made with wholesome ingredients, these air fryer dog treats are perfect for training or simply spoiling your pooch, ensuring you both feel good about snack time. Curious about how quickly you can make your pup’s new favorite treat? Let’s dive in!
Why Are These Dog Treats So Special?
Healthier Option: These Air Fryer Dog Treats offer a nutritious twist, using wholesome ingredients like pumpkin and peanut butter for your furry companion.
Quick & Easy: The straightforward process means you can whip up a batch in no time, leaving you free to play with your pup.
Tail-Wagging Flavor: The delightful combination of flavors will have your dog begging for more, making these treats perfect for training sessions.
Customizable Goodness: Feel free to swap in different flours or nut butters, allowing you to cater to your dog’s unique taste.
Guilt-Free Indulgence: Enjoy making these treats knowing they are free from preservatives and fillers, unlike many commercial options.
For more fun recipes, check out my Pumpkin Oat Cookies or some delightful Mozzarella Balls Air that you could also enjoy!
Air Fryer Dog Treats Ingredients
• Get ready to spoil your pup!
For the Dough
- Flour – Choose whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but any flour will work.
- Pumpkin – Adds moisture and fiber; use canned or freshly pureed pumpkin for the best results.
- Peanut Butter – Make sure it’s xylitol-free, as dogs love the rich flavor.
- Egg – Acts as a binder to hold everything together perfectly.
- Salt – Use sparingly, especially if your dog has dietary restrictions.
- Water – Adjust the amount to get the right consistency for rolling your dough.
These Air Fryer Dog Treats are simple to make and offer a healthful alternative that your furry friend will adore!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Homemade Air Fryer Dog Treats with Pumpkin and Peanut Butter
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, pumpkin, peanut butter, egg, and salt until well combined. The mixture should be thick yet smooth, ensuring a cohesive dough. This foundational blend is essential for your Air Fryer Dog Treats, paving the way for a tasty reward for your furry friend.
Step 2: Form the Dough
Gradually add water to the mixture, stirring until a dough ball forms. The dough should be pliable but not sticky, making it easier to roll out later. If it feels too dry, add a little more water, a tablespoon at a time, to achieve the right consistency for your Air Fryer Dog Treats.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a rolling pin for a uniform surface, ensuring even cooking in the air fryer. This step is crucial as it helps shape your Air Fryer Dog Treats, making them consistent in size and texture for even baking.
Step 4: Cut Treats
Using a pizza cutter or cookie cutter, cut the rolled dough into small rectangles or your desired shapes. Aim for bite-sized pieces that are easy for your dog to chew. Place your cutouts on a plate, preparing them for the air fryer. The variety in shapes can make treat time even more fun for your pup!
Step 5: Prepare the Air Fryer
Lightly grease the air fryer basket with a small amount of cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the cut dog treats in the basket, leaving space between each piece for air circulation. This ensures even cooking and perfect browning on each of your Air Fryer Dog Treats.
Step 6: Air Fry the Treats
Set your air fryer to 370°F and cook the treats for 5 to 7 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they cook; you want them to turn a delightful golden brown. This is the moment when your kitchen will fill with an irresistible aroma, making your pup eagerly anticipate their delicious reward!
Step 7: Cool Before Serving
Once golden brown, carefully remove the treats from the air fryer and place them on a wire rack to cool. Allowing them to cool completely is essential to prevent burns for your furry friend. After cooling, these Air Fryer Dog Treats will be crunchy on the outside and slightly chewy inside, making them perfect for rewarding good behavior.
Air Fryer Dog Treats Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to make these Air Fryer Dog Treats your own with these fun and tasty variations!
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Sweet Potato: Swap pumpkin with pureed sweet potato for a different flavor that’s equally healthy.
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Nut Butter Variety: Replace peanut butter with almond or cashew butter for a unique twist, just ensure it’s free of harmful additives. Your pups might love a nutty surprise!
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Banana Bliss: Add in small, mashed banana for a fruity touch; keep the proportions similar to maintain dough consistency. Your dog will enjoy the added sweetness!
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Herbal Infusion: Try incorporating a pinch of parsley or rosemary for freshness. Not only will it enhance flavor, but it also promotes good breath for your furry friend.
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Oatmeal Boost: Mix in some finely ground oats for a chewy texture; just be sure to adjust the flour accordingly. Your pup will appreciate the wholesome goodness!
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Beef or Chicken Broth: Substitute water with low-sodium beef or chicken broth for an extra savory kick. Your dog will be thrilled with the aroma!
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Cranberry Crunch: Fold in dried cranberries for a pop of sweetness and texture, balancing perfectly with the pumpkin and peanut butter. It’s a delightful surprise they won’t see coming!
These variations invite creativity into your homemade treats journey! And if you’re looking for more delicious recipes, be sure to try my No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars for a delightful human treat and check out the fun Mozzarella Balls Air for yourself!
Make Ahead Options
These Air Fryer Dog Treats are perfect for busy pet owners looking to save time in the kitchen! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it, keeping it fresh and ready to use. Just wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. You can also cut the treats into shapes and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply air fry the treats straight from the fridge for a quick snack that will delight your furry friend. These time-saving steps ensure your homemade treats remain just as delicious and healthy!
How to Store and Freeze Air Fryer Dog Treats
Fridge: Store your Air Fryer Dog Treats in an airtight container for up to 7 days to keep them fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the treats in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Thawing: To thaw, simply remove the desired number of treats from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
Reheating: If your pup prefers warm treats, you can reheat them in the air fryer at 300°F for 3 minutes to restore their crunchiness.
What to Serve with Easy Homemade Air Fryer Dog Treats?
There’s nothing quite like the joy of treating your furry companion to homemade goodness while ensuring they’re eating healthy.
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Training Snacks: Use these Air Fryer Dog Treats as delicious motivation during training sessions, helping your pup learn new tricks while indulging in their favorite flavors.
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Playtime Rewards: Keep a stash of these treats ready for some fun playtime moments! They’re perfect for rewarding your pup for good behavior during games.
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Homemade Meal Add-On: Crumble a treat on top of your dog’s regular meals for an exciting twist, elevating their dining experience with a burst of pumpkin-peanut flavor.
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Birthday Treats: Celebrate your dog’s special day with a batch of these treats, making their birthday a memorable occasion filled with tasty delights they’ll love.
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Doggie Picnics: Planning an outdoor adventure? Bring along these homemade treats to share during a park outing; they’re the perfect on-the-go snack for your furry friend.
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Treat Jar: Fill up a jar with these delightful treats to have on hand for those everyday moments of spoiling your pup, just because they make your life better.
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Doggie Social Gatherings: If you’re hosting a get-together for fellow dog-lovers, prepare a batch to share—watch as all the pups salivate over these delicious homemade morsels!
Expert Tips for Air Fryer Dog Treats
• Cool Properly: Allow the treats to cool completely before serving. This prevents burns and ensures they reach the perfect texture, keeping your pup safe.
• Watch the Cook Time: Every air fryer is different. Keep an eye on the treats to avoid overcooking; they should be golden brown but not dark.
• Storage Secrets: Store leftover treats in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 7 days. Freeze extras for longer-lasting goodness, and defrost as needed.
• Mix It Up: Feel free to experiment with different flours or nut butters. Just make sure any substitutions remain dog-friendly to ensure safe and tasty treats.
• Training Helper: Use these Air Fryer Dog Treats for training sessions or rewarding good behavior. Your pup will love the taste, making them eager to learn!
Air Fryer Dog Treats Recipe FAQs
Can I use different types of flour for these Air Fryer Dog Treats?
Absolutely! While whole wheat flour is a healthier option, you can use any type of flour you prefer or have on hand. Just ensure it’s dog-friendly; for example, almond flour is also a great choice. This flexibility allows you to customize the treats based on your dog’s dietary needs or flavor preferences.
How should I store the treats after baking?
For optimal freshness, store your Air Fryer Dog Treats in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will stay good for up to 7 days. If you’re not able to use them within that time, consider freezing them for longer storage.
Can Air Fryer Dog Treats be frozen? What’s the best way to do it?
Yes, you can freeze these treats! To freeze, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once they are firm, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They can stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to treat your pup, simply thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or warm them for a few minutes in the air fryer.
What do I do if the dough is too dry?
If you find that your dough is too dry, don’t worry! Just add water gradually, one tablespoon at a time, until you get a smooth, pliable dough. It’s important to strike the right balance, so take your time, and remember, a little bit goes a long way!
Is it safe for my dog to eat peanut butter?
Great question! Most dogs can safely enjoy peanut butter as a treat, given it’s free of xylitol, which is toxic to them. Look for natural, unsweetened varieties without additives. If your dog has allergies or dietary restrictions, consider substituting it with almond or cashew butter, ensuring it’s safe for your furry friend.
How long do these treats take to cook?
The cooking time for these Air Fryer Dog Treats typically ranges from 5 to 7 minutes at 370°F. However, it’s essential to keep an eye on them since air fryers can vary. You want them to turn a delightful golden brown without becoming too dark!
Homemade Air Fryer Dog Treats Your Pup Will Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, pumpkin, peanut butter, egg, and salt until well combined.
- Gradually add water to the mixture, stirring until a dough ball forms.
- On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.
- Using a pizza cutter or cookie cutter, cut the rolled dough into small rectangles or desired shapes.
- Lightly grease the air fryer basket and arrange the cut dog treats, leaving space between each piece.
- Set your air fryer to 370°F and cook the treats for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Once golden brown, carefully remove the treats and place them on a wire rack to cool.
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