Peanut Butter Bliss: Irresistible Frozen Dog Treat Recipe

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 wondered how much your dog wants a piece of your food when you eat? Saying no is hard, but most of the time our treats are not good for them.

And the problem is a lot of store-bought treats are loaded with strange fillers that can cause stomachaches to our dogs.

But what if you could make something that is delicious, healthy, and absolutely safe at home? Well, you definitely can. And it’s much simpler than you might imagine.

This recipe is a very simple method to provide your dog a flavorful, refreshing treat that they will enjoy!

Recipe Overview

• This homemade frozen dog treat recipe takes just 15 minutes of active prep time and 3 hours of freezer time.
• It’s packed with healthy fats, protein, and probiotics, making it perfect for a cool summer snack or a special reward.
• The recipe yields about 24-30 small treats, depending on your mold size.
• It’s a fantastic way to spoil your dog with something wholesome and delicious.

Ingredients List

• 1 cup (250g) natural peanut butter (xylitol-free) – approx. $3.50
• 1/2 cup (120ml) plain unsweetened yogurt (Greek or regular) – approx. $0.75
• 1 ripe banana, mashed – approx. $0.30
• 1/4 cup (60ml) water or unsalted chicken/beef broth – approx. $0.10
• Optional: 1 tablespoon chia seeds for extra fiber – approx. $0.20

Total estimated cost: $4.85

Substitutions:
Instead of peanut butter, you can use almond butter (xylitol-free, of course).
For yogurt, cottage cheese is a good swap if your dog likes it.
If bananas aren’t available, try mashed pumpkin puree (not pie filling) for a similar texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Gather Your Tools
Get a medium mixing bowl, a spoon or spatula, and silicone molds. Ice cube trays also work great.

Step 2: Mash the Banana
Peel the ripe banana and put it into your mixing bowl. Use a fork to mash it really well until it’s smooth.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
Add the natural peanut butter and plain unsweetened yogurt to the mashed banana.
Stir everything together until it’s fully combined and looks like a thick batter.

Step 4: Add Liquid & Optional Boost
Pour in the water or broth. This helps thin the mixture a bit.
If you’re using chia seeds, stir them in now.

Step 5: Fill the Molds
Spoon the mixture into your silicone molds or ice cube trays. Don’t overfill them; leave a little space at the top.

Step 6: Freeze Them Up
Place the filled molds carefully into your freezer. Let them freeze for at least 3 hours, or until they are solid.

Step 7: Serve & Store
Once solid, pop the treats out of the molds.
Give one to your happy pup and store the rest as directed below.

Feeding Guidelines

• Small Dogs (under 20 lbs): One small treat per day. This is perfect for a Chihuahua or a Maltese.
• Medium Dogs (20-50 lbs): One to two small treats per day. Think Beagles or smaller Border Collies.
• Large Dogs (over 50 lbs): Two to three small treats per day. This works for a Golden Retriever or a German Shepherd.
• Very Active Dogs: If your dog runs a lot or is a working dog, they might burn more calories. You can adjust slightly, maybe adding one extra treat.
• Less Active or Senior Dogs: These dogs need fewer calories. Stick to the lower end of the recommendations or even half a treat.
• Puppies: Treats should be given sparingly to puppies. Always make sure they can chew and swallow it safely.
• Always consult your vet: Your vet knows your dog’s specific health needs best. Talk to them about any new treats or dietary changes to make sure it’s the right choice for your pet.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Natural Peanut Butter: A great source of protein and healthy fats like Omega-6. It provides energy and helps keep their coat shiny.
• Plain Unsweetened Yogurt: Full of probiotics, which are good for gut health and digestion. It also offers calcium for strong bones.
• Bananas: Packed with potassium, vitamins B6 and C. They’re good for heart health and can provide a natural energy boost.
• Chia Seeds (Optional): These tiny seeds are powerhouse additions, offering fiber for digestion and Omega-3 fatty acids for skin and coat health.
• Overall Health: This recipe avoids artificial preservatives, sugars, and fillers found in many commercial treats. It’s a wholesome way to provide essential nutrients.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Refrigeration: These are frozen treats, so they aren’t meant to be stored in the fridge for long. They’ll melt!
• Freezing: Keep your finished treats in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag in the freezer. They will stay fresh for up to 2-3 months.
• Serving: You can serve these treats straight from the freezer. They’re a lovely cool snack, especially on warm days.
• Mix it Up: For a special surprise, you can tuck a treat into a KONG toy or a puzzle feeder. It helps keep your dog busy for a while.
• Room Temperature: Don’t leave them out at room temperature for too long. They will start to melt quickly.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use sweetened peanut butter?

No, you absolutely cannot. Sweetened peanut butter often contains sugar, and sometimes even xylitol, which is highly toxic to dogs. Always choose natural, unsweetened, and xylitol-free peanut butter.

My dog has a dairy allergy. What can I use instead of yogurt?

If your dog can’t have dairy, you can use plain unsweetened coconut cream or a dairy-free plain unsweetened yogurt. Just make sure it doesn’t have any added sugars or artificial sweeteners.

How long do these treats last in the freezer?

These frozen treats can stay fresh and delicious in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. It’s a good idea to label the container with the date you made them.

Can I add other fruits or vegetables?

Yes, you can! Small amounts of other dog-safe fruits like blueberries or strawberries (mashed or finely chopped) can be a great addition. You could also try a tiny bit of cooked, plain sweet potato puree.

My dog won’t eat them. What should I do?

Some dogs can be picky. Try mixing a smaller piece of the treat with their regular food. You can also try a different substitution, like pumpkin puree instead of banana, to see if they prefer that flavor.

Wrapping Up

Making these “Peanut Butter Bliss” treats is a simple way to show your dog some extra love with a healthy, delicious snack.

They’ll go wild for these cooling bites, and you’ll feel great knowing exactly what’s in them.

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