Tag: dessert

By Donna Barnes

The rain has been dancing on the garden for days now, and my pups have taken to gazing longingly out the window with low sighs, as if their very souls are drying up without the sunshine. I suspect many other doggies feel the same way when it rains—dreaming of going for a walk in the sun but instead curling up in cozy corners, waiting for the skies to clear.

While the rain is a welcome visitor, bringing life to the garden, I decided to brighten my dogs’ day in a different way. I gathered my trusty mixing bowl, promised them something special, and got to work baking a batch of dog cookies—because if we must stay inside, we might as well make it delicious! Buddy was right there by my side, watching intently and sniffing the air, his tail wagging in eager anticipation.

This simple, healthy treat is quick to make, easy to store, and—if your dogs are anything like mine—gone before you know it. You can freeze them for later or keep them sealed tight for up to a week (if they last that long!).

Once they were done and cooled, Penny gladly stepped up to be first customer and take the first bite. I cannot blame her—I am the same way with cookies myself!

Peanut Butter & Pumpkin Dog Cookies

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
• ½ cup natural peanut butter (xylitol-free)
• 2 ½ cups whole wheat flour (or oat flour for grain-free)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• 1 egg

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, stir together the pumpkin puree and peanut butter until smooth.
3. Add the egg and mix well.
4. Gradually add the flour and cinnamon (if using), stirring until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface and cut into fun shapes using cookie cutters. (Bone shapes? Paw prints? Tiny pumpkins? The possibilities are endless!)
6. Place cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden and firm.
7. Let them cool completely before serving to eager, drooling pups.

Serving Suggestion:
Serve cookies with a side of snuggles and a cozy blanket. I promise you lots of doggy kisses!

Here’s to rainy days, wagging tails, and the sweet scent of baking filling the kitchen! If you’re a fellow pet owner, what treats do you make? I’d love to hear—share in the comments below!