Homemade No-Bake Dog Cake with Berries & Greek Yogurt

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.

Is your dog’s birthday around the corner? Or perhaps you simply want to give them a unique yummy treat that is good for them and made at home?

Finding cakes that are safe for dogs and sold in stores with little sugar and normal ingredients is quite challenging.

Still, you want to papmer your pet not at the expense of his/her health. So, how about preparing a tasty and healthy cake just with the ingredients you already have in your kitchen?

Recipe Overview

• This no-bake dog cake recipe is super easy.
• It’s packed with healthy ingredients your dog will love.
• Prep time: 15 minutes.
• Chill time: 2 hours.
• Serving size: One 6-inch cake, enough for 4-6 servings depending on dog size.
• It’s perfect for celebrations or a special weekend treat.

Ingredients List

• 1 cup Rolled Oats (not instant): approximately $0.50. This is the base for the crust.
• 1/2 cup Unsweetened Applesauce: approximately $0.40. Adds natural sweetness and moisture.
• 1/4 cup Peanut Butter (xylitol-free): approximately $0.75. Binds the crust and adds flavor. Make sure it’s 100% xylitol-free; xylitol is toxic to dogs.
• 1 cup Plain Greek Yogurt (full-fat): approximately $1.50. This is the main “frosting” layer. Avoid flavored or sweetened yogurts.
• 1/2 cup Mixed Berries (fresh or frozen, thawed) – Blueberries, Strawberries, Raspberries: approximately $1.00. These are for mixing into the yogurt and decorating. Berries are packed with antioxidants.
• Optional: 1 tbsp Honey (local, raw): approximately $0.20. For a touch more sweetness if desired, but not necessary.
• Optional: 1/4 cup Shredded Carrots: approximately $0.10. Adds extra nutrients and crunch.

Total estimated cost: Approximately $4.45.

Suitable Substitutions:

• Rolled Oats: You can use oat flour if you prefer a finer crust. Just pulse rolled oats in a blender until powdered.
• Applesauce: Mashed banana works well too.
• Peanut Butter: Almond butter (xylitol-free) is a good alternative.
• Greek Yogurt: Cottage cheese (low sodium) can be used for the topping, but the texture will be different.
• Mixed Berries: Any dog-safe fruit like diced melon or kiwi can be used.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Step 1: Make the Crust.
  • In a medium bowl, combine the rolled oats, unsweetened applesauce, and xylitol-free peanut butter. Mix well until everything is combined and forms a crumbly dough. If it appears too dry, add a little more applesauce.
• Step 2: Form the Base.
  • For easy removal, place parchment paper at the bottom of a 6-inch springform pan or a small cake pan. With the oat mixture, evenly distribute it at the bottom of the pan and form the cake’s crust. Be sure that it is packed down firmly.
• Step 3: Prepare the Filling.
  • Mash the berries a bit or leave them whole for texture. Mix the plain Greek yogurt with the berries that are half of the mixed ones in another bowl. If you are going to use honey or shredded carrots, mix them in now.
• Step 4: Assemble the Cake.
  • Put the yogurt and berry mixture in the pan over the oat crust. Use a spatula to level the top.
• Step 5: Decorate and Chill.
  • Put the leftover fresh berries on top of the yogurt layer. You may make a pattern or just scatter them on. Put the cake in the fridge for at least 2 hours so it can get firm. This is very important for the cake to retain its shape.
• Step 6: Serve.
  • Then take the cake out of the pan carefully. If it is not a springform pan, you may need to use a knife to run along the edges. Cut it into slices that are suitable for your dog.

Feeding Guidelines

• This cake is a treat, not a meal replacement.
• Portion size depends on your dog’s size and activity level.
• For small dogs (under 20 lbs): A 1-inch slice.
• For medium dogs (20-50 lbs): A 2-inch slice.
• For large dogs (over 50 lbs): A 3-inch slice.
• Puppies and very active dogs might tolerate a bit more.
• Less active or older dogs should have smaller portions to avoid weight gain.
• Always introduce new foods slowly to avoid stomach upset.
• If your dog has dietary restrictions or health issues, talk to your vet first. They can give you personalized advice.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Oats: A great source of fiber, which helps with digestion. They’re also good for dogs with sensitive stomachs and can help with healthy skin and coat.
• Applesauce: Provides vitamins A and C, and more fiber. Just make sure it’s unsweetened.
• Peanut Butter: Offers protein and healthy fats. Always check the label for xylitol, which is highly toxic to dogs.
• Greek Yogurt: A fantastic source of probiotics for gut health. It also provides calcium for strong bones. Full-fat plain yogurt is best.
• Berries (Blueberries, Strawberries, Raspberries): Packed with antioxidants which boost the immune system. They’re also a good source of vitamins and fiber.
• This cake offers a balance of carbohydrates, protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It stays fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or parchment paper and then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• Frozen slices can last for up to 2 months.
• To serve from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight or for a few hours.
• Serve the cake at room temperature or slightly chilled.
• You can serve it alone as a special treat.
• Or, crumble a small piece over your dog’s regular kibble for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

Greek yogurt is thicker and has more protein. Regular plain yogurt is fine, but the cake might be a bit softer and not hold its shape as well.

Is this recipe suitable for puppies?

Yes, in small portions. Puppies have sensitive stomachs, so introduce it slowly. Their nutritional needs are also very specific, so this should only be a treat.

What if my dog is allergic to peanut butter?

You can use almond butter as a substitute, but always double-check that it’s xylitol-free. Sunflower seed butter can also be an option if your dog has nut allergies.

Can I add other fruits or vegetables?

Absolutely! Diced carrots, pumpkin puree, or mashed sweet potato can be great additions. Always ensure any additions are dog-safe.

My cake isn’t firming up, what did I do wrong?

Make sure you used plain Greek yogurt, which is naturally thick. Also, ensure you allowed enough chilling time. 2 hours is the minimum, but longer is better.

Wrapping Up

Ready to make your dog’s day with this awesome no-bake cake? It’s easy, healthy, and a total hit with dogs. Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!