Are you looking for a delicious and healthy treat to spoil your beloved canine companion? Look no further! This King Arthur Flour-inspired dog biscuit recipe is incredibly easy to make, using simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. It's the perfect way to show your furry friend some love while ensuring they enjoy a tasty and nutritious snack, free from artificial flavors and preservatives. Forget store-bought – homemade is where the real love is! These biscuits are also a great way to practice your baking skills, and are an excellent way to use up leftover ingredients. Let's get baking!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups King Arthur Flour all-purpose flour (or a blend of all-purpose and whole wheat flour for added fiber)
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ¼ cup peanut butter (xylitol-free!)
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup water (adjust as needed for dough consistency)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for added richness and shine)
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and rolled oats. This ensures even distribution and prevents lumps.
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Mix in Wet Ingredients: Add the peanut butter, egg, olive oil (if using), and water to the dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly until a dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it comes together. If it's too wet, add a tablespoon of flour.
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Roll & Cut: Lightly flour your work surface. Roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thickness. Use cookie cutters (dog bone shapes are classic!) or a knife to cut out biscuits. Get creative – different shapes add to the fun!
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Bake: Place the biscuits onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
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Cool & Store: Let the biscuits cool completely on a wire rack before serving to your pup. Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage.
Tips for Perfect Dog Biscuits:
- Xylitol-Free Peanut Butter is Crucial: Xylitol, a common sweetener in some peanut butters, is toxic to dogs. Always double-check your peanut butter label to ensure it's xylitol-free.
- Adjust Water as Needed: The amount of water needed may vary slightly depending on the flour you use and the humidity. Start with ½ cup and add more as needed to achieve a smooth, workable dough.
- Don't Overbake: Overbaking can result in hard, crunchy biscuits that your dog might find difficult to chew. Keep a close eye on them during the baking process.
- Experiment with Flavors: Once you master the basic recipe, get creative! Try adding other dog-friendly ingredients like shredded carrots, blueberries (in moderation), or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Variations:
- Sweet Potato Biscuits: Add ½ cup of mashed cooked sweet potato to the dough for extra sweetness and nutrients.
- Cheesy Biscuits: Mix in ¼ cup of grated cheddar cheese (ensure it's unsalted and doesn't contain onion or garlic).
- Herby Biscuits: Add a teaspoon of dried parsley or rosemary for a fragrant twist.
Nutritional Information (per biscuit, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your biscuits and the specific ingredients used. These are estimates:
- Calories: Approximately 50-70 calories
- Protein: Approximately 5-7 grams
- Fat: Approximately 3-5 grams
Making these homemade dog biscuits is a rewarding and fun experience. Your dog will appreciate the love and care that goes into each bite, and you'll enjoy the satisfaction of creating a healthy and delicious treat from scratch. Enjoy the baking, and even more importantly, enjoy the happy tail wags!