Easy Peanut Butter & Applesauce Dog Biscuits For Happy Pups!

AnaReviewed and Edited By:Ana

If you’ve ever looked at the ingredient list on store-bought dog treats and thought, “What even is half of this stuff?” — you’re not alone. That exact moment is what pushed me to start making homemade dog treats in the first place. I wanted something simple, affordable, and genuinely healthy that my dog would get excited about (tail-wagging level excited 🐶).

That’s how these easy peanut butter & applesauce dog biscuits became a staple in my kitchen. They’re beginner-friendly, budget-friendly, and made with ingredients you probably already have. Even better? Dogs absolutely love them.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know — from why these ingredients work so well, to step-by-step instructions, storage tips, and common mistakes to avoid. Let’s bake something your pup will go crazy for.

Why Homemade Dog Biscuits Are Worth It

Before we jump into the recipe, let’s talk about why making your own dog treats is such a good idea.

You Control the Ingredients

When you bake at home, you know exactly what’s going into your dog’s body — no fillers, no artificial flavors, no mystery preservatives.

They’re More Affordable (IMO)

Once you price out premium dog treats, homemade versions often cost a fraction of the price, especially if you bake in batches.

Perfect for Sensitive Stomachs

Many dogs struggle with allergies or digestion issues. Simple recipes like this one are gentle and customizable.

It’s a Fun Bonding Ritual

There’s something really special about making food for your dog. And yes, they somehow always know when it’s for them.

Why Peanut Butter & Applesauce Are a Perfect Combo

This recipe works so well because both ingredients are dog-safe, nutritious, and flavorful.

Peanut Butter: The Ultimate Dog Favorite

Most dogs go wild for peanut butter — and for good reason.

Benefits of peanut butter for dogs:

  • Healthy fats for skin and coat
  • Protein for muscle support
  • Rich flavor that makes treats irresistible

Important: Always use xylitol-free peanut butter. Xylitol is extremely toxic to dogs.

Applesauce: Naturally Sweet & Gentle

Applesauce adds moisture and natural sweetness without added sugar.

Benefits of applesauce for dogs:

  • Fiber to support digestion
  • Vitamin C and antioxidants
  • Helps bind ingredients naturally

Stick to unsweetened, plain applesauce — no cinnamon, no sugar, no artificial sweeteners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about this recipe is how short and simple the ingredient list is.

Basic Ingredients

  • 1 cup natural peanut butter (xylitol-free)
  • 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 2½ to 3 cups whole wheat flour (or oat flour for gluten-free)

That’s it. No eggs, no dairy, no complicated extras.

Optional Add-Ins (Totally Optional)

If you want to mix things up occasionally:

  • A pinch of cinnamon (dog-safe, in small amounts)
  • Mashed banana for extra softness
  • Ground oats for texture

FYI, simpler is usually better when it comes to dog treats.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Peanut Butter & Applesauce Dog Biscuits

This is a great recipe even if you’re not confident in the kitchen. Let’s break it down.

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine:

  • Peanut butter
  • Applesauce

Stir until smooth and creamy. This may take a minute, but it’s worth it.

Step 3: Add the Flour Slowly

Add flour ½ cup at a time, mixing as you go.

You’re looking for a dough that:

  • Is firm but not dry
  • Doesn’t stick heavily to your hands
  • Can be rolled out easily

If it’s sticky, add a bit more flour. If it’s crumbly, add a spoonful of applesauce.

Step 4: Roll & Cut

Lightly flour your surface. Roll dough to about ¼-inch thickness.

Use:

  • Bone-shaped cutters
  • Small circles
  • Or just cut squares with a knife

Smaller biscuits work best for training treats.

Step 5: Bake

Place biscuits on your baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes.

For crunchier biscuits, turn off the oven and let them sit inside for an extra 10 minutes.

Step 6: Cool Completely

Let biscuits cool fully before serving. This helps them firm up and prevents tummy upset.

How Crunchy Should These Dog Biscuits Be?

This depends on your dog’s preference.

Softer Biscuits

  • Bake closer to 20 minutes
  • Thicker dough
  • Great for puppies or senior dogs

Crunchier Biscuits

  • Roll thinner
  • Bake 25 minutes or longer
  • Leave in warm oven to dry

IMO, a light crunch with a soft center is the sweet spot.

Storage Tips: Keeping Treats Fresh

Homemade dog biscuits don’t contain preservatives, so storage matters.

Room Temperature

  • Store in an airtight container
  • Lasts 5–7 days

Refrigerator

  • Airtight container
  • Lasts up to 2 weeks

Freezer (Best Option)

  • Freeze in batches
  • Lasts up to 3 months
  • Thaw at room temperature before serving

Freezing is especially helpful if you bake in large batches.

How Many Treats Can My Dog Have?

Even healthy treats should be given in moderation.

General Rule

Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories.

Size Guide

  • Small dogs: 1–2 small biscuits per day
  • Medium dogs: 2–3 biscuits
  • Large dogs: 3–4 biscuits

Always adjust based on activity level and overall diet.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even simple recipes have a few pitfalls.

Using the Wrong Peanut Butter

This is the big one. Never use peanut butter with xylitol. Always double-check the label.

Adding Sugar or Honey

Dogs don’t need added sugar. Applesauce already provides enough natural sweetness.

Overbaking Too Quickly

If biscuits brown too fast, lower your oven temperature slightly. Slow baking prevents burning.

Skipping the Cooling Step

Warm biscuits may seem fine, but they can upset sensitive stomachs.

Are These Biscuits Safe for All Dogs?

For most dogs, yes — but there are a few exceptions.

Dogs That May Need Caution

  • Dogs with peanut allergies (rare, but possible)
  • Dogs on low-fat diets
  • Dogs with specific medical conditions

If your dog has health concerns, always check with your vet before introducing new treats.

Can I Customize This Recipe?

Absolutely — that’s the beauty of homemade treats.

Easy Variations

  • Swap whole wheat flour for oat flour
  • Add mashed pumpkin for digestion
  • Mix in finely grated carrot

Just avoid ingredients like:

  • Chocolate
  • Grapes
  • Raisins
  • Onions

When in doubt, keep it simple.

Why Dogs Go Crazy for These Biscuits

There’s something about the peanut butter + applesauce combo that dogs just adore.

  • Strong aroma
  • Natural sweetness
  • Soft-crunchy texture

The first time I made these, my dog sat by the oven like it was a five-star restaurant opening night. That’s when I knew this recipe was a keeper.

Final Thoughts: Simple Treats, Happy Pups

Making easy peanut butter & applesauce dog biscuits is one of those small efforts that delivers big rewards. You get peace of mind, your dog gets a delicious treat, and your kitchen smells amazing.

To recap:

  • Simple, dog-safe ingredients
  • Beginner-friendly recipe
  • Easy to store and customize
  • A healthier alternative to store-bought treats

If you’ve been thinking about trying homemade dog treats, this is the perfect place to start. Give it a try, watch your pup’s reaction, and don’t be surprised if these biscuits become a regular request.

Your dog deserves it — and honestly, so do you. 🐾

Ana

Hey there! I'm Ana White, the proud owner of this website and a Bulldog enthusiast through and through. I've been lucky enough to have a Bulldog by my side since my school days, and over the last decade, my passion for these furry friends has only grown. I've participated in numerous Bulldog shows and met many other owners along the way, and I've learned a ton from their perspectives as well. That's why I created this website – to share my experience and knowledge with other French Bulldog owners and lovers.