2-Ingredient Dog Treat Recipe: Cottage Cheese & Banana Puffs

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.

Have​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ you ever seen your dog looking at you with that longing eyes when you are eating a snack, and wish you had a healthy treat to give them?

The problem is that most of the treats that are made for dogs and are sold in stores are loaded with fillers, artificial ingredients, and components that are simply not good for them.

So, what if you could make a treat that is tasty, healthy, and simple? I’m gonna show you how.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade treat recipe takes just 15 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to bake.
• It’s a simple, healthy two-ingredient wonder for your furry friend.
• Yields approximately 2 dozen small puffs, perfect for training or everyday rewards.
• Made with natural ingredients, it’s a guilt-free snack for any dog.
• These puffs are great for sensitive tummies and dogs needing a low-calorie option.

Ingredients List

• 1 cup (226g) Low-Fat Cottage Cheese (around $2.50)
• 1 large (118g) Ripe Banana, mashed (around $0.25)
• Total Estimated Cost: $2.75

Substitutions: You can try ricotta cheese for cottage cheese if your dog tolerates it well. For the banana, you can experiment with other mashed dog-safe fruits like pumpkin puree (not pie filling) or unsweetened applesauce, but always introduce new foods slowly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a medium bowl, combine the cottage cheese and mashed banana.
• Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined.
• The mixture should be thick and slightly lumpy.
• Drop small spoonfuls (about half a teaspoon) of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
• Leave a little space between each puff.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and firm to the touch.
• They should be slightly crispy on the outside.
• Let them cool completely on the baking sheet before serving to your dog.

Feeding Guidelines

• Small Dogs (under 20 lbs): 2-3 puffs per day.
• Medium Dogs (20-50 lbs): 4-6 puffs per day.
• Large Dogs (over 50 lbs): 6-8 puffs per day.
• Adjust based on your dog’s activity level. More active dogs might need a few extra, while less active dogs might need fewer.
• For puppies, use sparingly as a high-value training treat.
• Senior dogs might appreciate the softer texture.
• Pregnant or nursing dogs may need more calories overall, but treats should still be a small portion of their diet.
• If your dog has allergies, introduce one new ingredient at a time and watch for reactions.
• Always consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice, especially if your dog has specific health conditions or dietary needs.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Cottage Cheese: This is a great source of lean protein. Protein is essential for muscle development, tissue repair, and overall body function. It also contains calcium for strong bones and teeth, and B vitamins for energy metabolism.
• Banana: Bananas are packed with potassium, which supports heart function and nerve health. They also provide vitamin C for immune health and dietary fiber for healthy digestion. The natural sugars offer a quick energy boost.
• Low-Fat Content: This recipe is naturally low in fat, making it a good option for dogs needing to manage their weight.
• Digestive Health: Both ingredients are gentle on the stomach. The fiber in bananas aids digestion, and cottage cheese is often well-tolerated by dogs with sensitive systems.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store these puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid.
• Transfer the frozen puffs to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• To reheat from frozen, you can let them thaw at room temperature.
• Or, gently warm them in the microwave for a few seconds if your dog prefers them warm.
• Serve at room temperature or slightly warmed.
• You can offer them as a standalone treat or crumble a few over their regular kibble for an extra special meal.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use full-fat cottage cheese?

You can, but low-fat is generally better for most dogs to manage calorie intake and prevent stomach upset. High-fat diets can lead to pancreatitis in some dogs.

My dog is lactose intolerant. Can they still have this?

Cottage cheese has less lactose than milk, but some dogs are still sensitive. Start with a very small amount and watch for digestive upset. If sensitive, this might not be the best treat for them.

Can I add other ingredients?

For this specific “2-ingredient” recipe, we keep it simple. But if you want to experiment, stick to dog-safe ingredients like a tiny bit of peanut butter (xylitol-free) or a sprinkle of oats. Always research new ingredients first.

Why are my puffs not firming up?

Make sure your banana is ripe, but not overly watery. Also, ensure you’re baking them long enough. Oven temperatures can vary, so you might need to add a few extra minutes until they are golden and firm.

Wrapping Up

Making these 2-Ingredient Cottage Cheese & Banana Puffs is such an easy way to give your dog a healthy, delicious treat. They are simple, nutritious, and your dog will love them.

Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!