3-Ingredient Homemade Dog Cake Recipe With Chicken Liver Sweet Potato & Egg

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.

Does your dog deserve something better than those store-bought treats with weird ingredients? A lot of commercial snacks are stuffed with fillers and artificial junk. No wonder some pups end up with upset stomachs or allergies.

Here’s the good news: you can skip the mystery and make a simple and healthy dog cake with this recipe at home. Your dog gets a tasty treat, and you get peace of mind knowing exactly what’s in it. Everybody wins.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dog cake recipe is super easy and uses just three whole ingredients.
• It is perfect for celebrating birthdays or just giving your dog a healthy, special treat.
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 30-35 minutes
• Serving size: 4-6 small cakes or 1 medium cake

Ingredients List

• 1 pound chicken liver, fresh or frozen ($3.50 – $5.00)
• 1 large sweet potato, about 12-16 ounces ($1.00 – $1.50)
• 2 large eggs ($0.30 – $0.50)
• Total Estimated Cost: $4.80 – $7.00

Substitutions:

• For chicken liver, you can use beef liver or turkey liver.
• For sweet potato, pureed pumpkin (not pie filling) or regular potato can work, but sweet potato offers the most nutrients.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a muffin tin or small cake pan.
• Start by preparing the sweet potato.
• You can peel and dice it, then boil until very soft, about 15-20 minutes.
• Alternatively, prick the sweet potato several times with a fork and microwave it whole for 5-8 minutes, or until soft.
• Once cooked, let it cool slightly, then mash it thoroughly.
• Next, prepare the chicken liver.
• Rinse the liver under cold water.
• If you are using a food processor, you can add the liver whole.
• If mixing by hand, chop it into smaller pieces.
• In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potato, raw chicken liver, and two eggs.
• Mix everything very well.
• You want a consistent batter, so a food processor or immersion blender works best for a smoother cake.
• If mixing by hand, just make sure all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
• Pour the mixture into your prepared baking pan or muffin tin.
• Bake for 30-35 minutes.
• The cake should be firm to the touch and slightly browned around the edges.
• A toothpick inserted into the center should come out mostly clean.
• Let the cake cool completely before serving to your dog.
• This is important to prevent burns and to allow the cake to set properly.

Feeding Guidelines

• This cake is a treat, not a complete meal.
• Offer small portions depending on your dog’s size and daily calorie intake.
• For small dogs (under 20 lbs), a quarter of a small muffin or a 1-inch square piece is plenty.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs) can have half a small muffin or a 2-inch square piece.
• Large dogs (over 50 lbs) might enjoy a whole small muffin or a 3-inch square piece.
• Adjust for activity level: more active dogs might tolerate a slightly larger treat, but always in moderation.
• For puppies, seniors, or dogs with specific health conditions, consult your vet for personalized advice.
• They can help you figure out the right portion size for your individual dog’s needs.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Chicken liver is an excellent source of high-quality protein, iron, and B vitamins like B12, crucial for energy and nerve function.
• It also provides Vitamin A, important for vision and immune health.
• Sweet potato is packed with dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes gut health.
• It also offers complex carbohydrates for sustained energy, and vitamins A and C, which are powerful antioxidants.
• Eggs provide complete protein, healthy fats, and essential amino acids, supporting muscle health and overall vitality.
• The combination of these ingredients ensures a treat rich in protein, healthy fats, fiber, and a wide array of vitamins and minerals.
• This recipe is naturally grain-free, making it great for dogs with grain sensitivities.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, you can cut the cake into individual portions and freeze them for up to 2-3 months.
• Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight or gently warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.
• Serve the cake at room temperature or slightly warm to enhance the aroma and flavor.
• You can serve it as a standalone treat or crumble a small piece over their regular kibble for an extra special meal.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I add other ingredients to this cake?

Yes, you can. You can try adding a tablespoon of finely chopped carrots or green beans for extra nutrients. Just be sure any additions are dog-safe.

My dog has a sensitive stomach, is this recipe safe?

This recipe is generally well-tolerated because it uses whole, simple ingredients. However, introduce any new food slowly. Give a very small piece first to see how your dog reacts.

How often can I give this cake to my dog?

This is a treat, so it should be given in moderation. Once or twice a week for a special occasion is usually fine, but always consider your dog’s overall diet and calorie intake.

What if my dog does not like the taste?

Some dogs are picky. You can try crumbling a small piece over their regular food to mix the flavors. Also, make sure it is served at room temperature or slightly warm, which can make it more appealing.

Wrapping Up

Making this simple 3-ingredient dog cake is a fantastic way to show your dog how much you care, with a treat that is both delicious and nutritious. It is easy, wholesome, and sure to be a hit. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Cake board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!