There is something deeply satisfying about the smell of peanut butter and bacon baking together, especially when you imagine your happy pup wagging in excitement. These treats come together with simple pantry staples and deliver a rich, savory aroma that fills the kitchen in the best way.
I like to make a batch on a quiet Sunday afternoon so I always have healthy rewards ready for spontaneous training moments, vet visits, or just because. They save you from buying mystery packaged snacks at the store.
SaveAs a blogger who tests every recipe on my own nosey golden retriever, these peanut butter bacon dog treats have become our go after dinner ritual, and I love knowing exactly what is going into his bowl.
Peanut Butter Bacon Dog Treats Recipe
Ingredients
Dough
Mix-ins
Instructions
- Crumble the bacon
Cook the bacon gently in a cold skillet until crisp, drain on paper towels, then crumble into small pieces. Let it cool fully so it does not cook the egg when mixed in.
- Whisk wet ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk the peanut butter, egg, olive oil, and water or chicken broth until smooth and slightly glossy.
- Combine dry ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, and salt (if using) so the leavening is evenly distributed.
- Mix everything together
Pour the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, add the cooled bacon and parsley, and stir until a thick dough comes together. Add a tablespoon of water if it feels too dry, but avoid making it sticky.
- Chill the dough
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 15 to 20 minutes. This helps the dough firm up so it is easier to roll and prevents spreading on the baking sheet.
- Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, or 175 degrees Celsius. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Shape the treats
Roll tablespoon sized portions of dough into balls, then flatten them gently into small discs about a quarter inch thick. Space them evenly on the prepared sheet.
- Bake until golden
Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The centers may look slightly soft, but they will firm up as they cool.
- Cool completely
Let the treats rest on the baking sheet for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool fully before storing. They should feel dry and crisp.
- Store or serve
Keep the treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or freeze them in a sealed bag for longer storage. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Substitutions and variations
- Use almond butter instead of peanut butter if your dog tolerates nuts, but avoid any nut butters with xylitol.
- Replace chicken broth with water for an even simpler version that keeps the bacon flavor as the star.
- Swap whole wheat flour for gluten free flour blend if you need a grain free alternative.
- Add a tablespoon of unsweetened applesauce for extra softness if the dough feels too dry.
Chloe's tips
- Always use xylitol free peanut butter since xylitol is toxic to dogs even in small amounts.
- For a stronger bacon punch, you can crumble a little bit of bacon scented dog friendly seasoning on top before baking.
- If your dog loves crunch, bake a few minutes longer until the treats are very crisp.
- Test with a small piece first if you are introducing a new protein to ensure your pup tolerates it well.
How to store it
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
- Freeze in a single layer in a zip top bag for up to 3 months.
- Let refrigerated treats sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for the best texture.
Serving suggestions
Serve these peanut butter bacon dog treats as small training bites or a joyful snack after a walk.
- Offer one or two treats during basic obedience practice.
- Use a larger piece for high value rewards during nail trimming or vet visits.
- Break into tiny bits for toy breed dogs to keep portion sizes gentle.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use natural peanut butter with xylitol?
No, xylitol is very dangerous for dogs and even a small amount can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar, so always choose a xylitol free peanut butter.
Are these treats safe for dogs with wheat allergies?
Yes, you can easily make them wheat free by using a certified wheat free flour blend or oat flour instead of whole wheat flour.
How long do these treats stay fresh?
Stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container, they stay fresh for about two weeks, and freezing extends that to several months.
Can puppies eat these treats?
Puppies can enjoy these treats in very small amounts once they are fully weaned and have started solid foods, but always check with your veterinarian first.
Let's get cooking!
Making your own peanut butter bacon dog treats at home is a simple way to spoil your pup with a tasty, wholesome snack that you can feel great about serving.
