3-Ingredient Homemade Dog Cake Recipe With Apple Cinnamon & Oat Flour

Zack Keithy, our author, is a certified veterinarian technician (UC Blue Ash) for over 6 years (contact him here). The articles written here are based on his expertise and experience, combined with a review by our expert vet reviewers including Dr M. Tarantino. Learn more about us here.

Ever looked at those store-bought dog treats and wondered what’s actually in them? You’re not alone.

Finding something healthy, without all the weird additives, feels impossible some days. Sometimes you flip over the bag and the ingredients read like a science experiment.

Here’s a better idea. Why not whip up a treat for your pup yourself, using stuff you already know is safe? This homemade dog cake recipe lets you do just that. Your dog gets something tasty, and you get peace of mind.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dog cake recipe is super simple and quick, perfect for birthdays or just because.
• It takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to bake.
• The recipe makes one small 6-inch cake, great for sharing or portioning out.
• It uses only three wholesome ingredients: apple, cinnamon, and oat flour.

Ingredients List

• 1 medium apple (about 1 cup shredded) – Cost: $0.75
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Cost: $0.10
• 1 cup oat flour – Cost: $0.50
• (Optional) 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce for “frosting” – Cost: $0.25
• Total Estimated Cost: $1.60 (or $1.35 without optional applesauce)

You can swap out the apple for pureed pumpkin if your dog loves that. And if you don’t have oat flour, you can easily make it by grinding rolled oats in a blender.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Lightly grease a 6-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
• Grate the apple using a fine grater.
• In a mixing bowl, combine the grated apple, ground cinnamon, and oat flour.
• Mix everything well until a thick dough forms. It might seem dry at first, but keep mixing; the moisture from the apple will help.
• Press the mixture evenly into the prepared cake pan.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and firm to the touch.
• Let the cake cool completely in the pan before removing it.
• If using, spread unsweetened applesauce on top as a simple “frosting” once cooled.

Feeding Guidelines

• This cake is a treat, not a meal replacement.
• For small dogs (under 20 lbs), offer a slice about 1-inch thick.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs) can have a 1.5 to 2-inch slice.
• Large dogs (over 50 lbs) might enjoy a 2 to 3-inch slice.
• Adjust the portion based on your dog’s size, activity level, and overall diet.
• Puppies and very active adult dogs might tolerate slightly more, while senior or less active dogs need smaller portions to avoid excess calories.
• Always talk to your vet about your dog’s specific dietary needs, especially if they have health conditions or are pregnant/nursing.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Apples are a great source of fiber and vitamins A and C, which support digestion and immune health.
• Cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties and can help regulate blood sugar, good for joint health.
• Oat flour provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy and is high in fiber, aiding in healthy digestion and gut function. It’s also gluten-free, making it good for dogs with wheat sensitivities.
• The recipe offers good fiber content (around 3-4% of the recipe’s weight) for healthy bowel movements.
• While this recipe offers some vitamins and minerals from apples and oats, it’s not a complete meal. For a fully balanced diet, you’d typically need a canine vitamin and mineral supplement.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, cut the cake into individual slices and freeze them for up to 2-3 months.
• Thaw frozen slices in the refrigerator overnight or warm them slightly in the microwave for a few seconds.
• You can serve the cake at room temperature or slightly warm.
• It’s a wonderful standalone treat, but you can also crumble a small piece over their regular kibble for an exciting meal topper.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I add other ingredients?

Yes, you can. Small amounts of dog-safe fruits like blueberries or mashed banana can be added. Just be sure to avoid any toxic ingredients like xylitol, grapes, raisins, onions, or chocolate.

My dog has allergies, is this recipe safe?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free due to the oat flour and free from common allergens like chicken or beef. If your dog has specific allergies, always check with your vet before introducing new foods.

How can I make this cake bigger?

To make a larger cake, simply double the ingredients for an 8 or 9-inch cake pan, and increase the baking time slightly to about 30-35 minutes. Always check for doneness with a toothpick.

Wrapping Up

Making this simple apple cinnamon dog cake is a sweet way to show your dog some love. It’s easy, healthy, and they’ll adore it. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Cake board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!