Whipping up a batch of Blueberry Peanut Butter Chew Sticks for Dogs is honestly one of my favorite ways to add a little joy to my pup’s day. These chewy, wholesome treats pack so much flavor and nutrition into every bite, you might just find yourself wishing you could sneak a taste! Made from a handful of simple ingredients, these sticks are tailor-made for those who love spoiling their dogs with something homemade and healthy. Whether you serve them fresh or stashed in the freezer for later, you’ll love how excited your furry friend gets for these fruity, peanut-buttery chews.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Few things beat the charm of a recipe that requires just a handful of easily accessible, nourishing ingredients. Each component in Blueberry Peanut Butter Chew Sticks for Dogs brings something special—be it flavor, texture, or a pop of color—creating a treat that’s as vibrant as it is healthy.
- Rolled oats (1 cup, blended into flour): Oats form the foundation, giving structure to the sticks and a chewy texture that’s perfect for dogs’ teeth.
- Natural peanut butter (1/2 cup, no xylitol): This provides rich, nutty flavor and helps bind the dough, making it both irresistible and safe for pups.
- Unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup): Applesauce adds gentle sweetness and moisture, helping everything come together without any added sugar.
- Freeze-dried or fresh blueberries (1/4 cup): Blueberries bring antioxidant power and a burst of color, while also offering natural sweetness dogs adore.
- Coconut flour (1 tbsp, optional): For those who want a firmer chew, this extra step helps absorb moisture and makes the sticks a little sturdier.
How to Make Blueberry Peanut Butter Chew Sticks for Dogs
Step 1: Prepare the Oat Flour
Start by adding your rolled oats to a blender or food processor, and pulse until you have a fine, fluffy flour. This base is what gives the Blueberry Peanut Butter Chew Sticks for Dogs their signature chewy, toothsome texture—plus it’s super gentle on canine tummies!
Step 2: Make the Dough
Combine your fresh oat flour, natural peanut butter, and unsweetened applesauce in a large bowl. Stir everything together until you have a thick, pliable dough. Don’t worry if it seems a bit sticky; that’s what makes these treats so satisfyingly chewsome for dogs!
Step 3: Fold in the Blueberries
Gently fold in the freeze-dried or fresh blueberries. Try to distribute them throughout the dough without smashing them too much—little pockets of blueberry are a delightful surprise in every bite of Blueberry Peanut Butter Chew Sticks for Dogs.
Step 4: Shape the Chew Sticks
On a lightly floured surface (oat flour works great), roll your dough into a thick slab about half an inch high. Using a knife or a dog bone-shaped cookie cutter, slice the dough into sticks or bones. The size and shape are totally up to you, but aim for pieces your furry companion can safely enjoy.
Step 5: Chill and Set
Once your chew sticks are shaped, pop them on a baking sheet and into the fridge for 30 minutes. This helps them set up and become even more chewy—plus it makes cleanup a snap!
Step 6: Optional Dehydration
For a longer-lasting, shelf-stable treat, consider dehydrating the sticks. You can use a food dehydrator or a low oven (around 200°F) until they’re dry and firm. This gives Blueberry Peanut Butter Chew Sticks for Dogs extra staying power and an irresistibly chewy texture.
How to Serve Blueberry Peanut Butter Chew Sticks for Dogs
Garnishes
Fancy things up by sprinkling a little extra crushed oat flour or a few minced blueberries over the top just before serving. While your pup won’t fuss over presentation, they will appreciate the added scent and pop of color!
Side Dishes
Pair these chew sticks with simple dog-safe treats like sliced apples, carrots, or cucumber. The fresh crunch perfectly complements the chewy texture of Blueberry Peanut Butter Chew Sticks for Dogs and makes snack time even more special.
Creative Ways to Present
Try wrapping a few sticks in natural parchment with a twine bow for an adorable doggy gift. Or, arrange them in a treat jar labeled with your dog’s name—watch how fast they learn where you keep the Blueberry Peanut Butter Chew Sticks for Dogs!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Blueberry Peanut Butter Chew Sticks for Dogs in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to a week, though chances are your pup will make quick work of them!
Freezing
If you’ve made a big batch or want to keep some on hand for later, place the sticks in a freezer-safe zip bag and freeze. They’ll keep well for up to two months—just remember to thaw a few before your next treat session.
Reheating
While these treats are delicious straight from the fridge or thawed from the freezer, if your dog prefers a softer chew, let the sticks sit out at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as this can affect the texture and safety of the treats.
FAQs
Can I substitute another fruit for blueberries?
Absolutely! While blueberries add wonderful color and antioxidants, you can try diced strawberries, raspberries, or apple bits for a fun twist on your Blueberry Peanut Butter Chew Sticks for Dogs.
Is it safe to use any kind of peanut butter?
Always use natural peanut butter with no added sugar or xylitol. Xylitol is extremely dangerous for dogs, so triple-check your labels before making Blueberry Peanut Butter Chew Sticks for Dogs.
Can I bake instead of dehydrate these treats?
Yes! Baking the sticks at a low temperature (around 200°F) will give you a firmer treat—just keep an eye on them so they don’t overbrown or get too hard for your pup.
Do I need to use coconut flour?
Coconut flour is totally optional in this recipe. It adds extra firmness to the Blueberry Peanut Butter Chew Sticks for Dogs but isn’t necessary if your dough is already the right consistency.
How many treats should I give my dog per day?
Treats should only make up about 10% of your dog’s daily calories. Adjust based on your dog’s size, and always offer Blueberry Peanut Butter Chew Sticks for Dogs in moderation alongside a balanced diet!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for an easy, healthy way to spoil your furry friend, Blueberry Peanut Butter Chew Sticks for Dogs just might become your go-to homemade treat. They’re fun to make, even more fun to share, and sure to earn you extra tail wags. Give them a try and watch your pup light up with every chewy, delicious bite!
Blueberry Peanut Butter Chew Sticks for Dogs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: About 12–16 sticks 1x
- Category: Dog Treats
- Method: Mixing, Rolling, Cutting
- Cuisine: Pet Food
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Blueberry Peanut Butter Chew Sticks for Dogs are a delightful and healthy treat your furry friend will love. Made with wholesome ingredients, they are perfect for rewarding good behavior or just showing your pup some love.
Ingredients
Dog Treats:
- 1 cup rolled oats (blended into flour)
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (no xylitol)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup freeze-dried or fresh blueberries
- 1 tbsp coconut flour (optional for firmer texture)
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: Combine oat flour, peanut butter, and applesauce to form a dough.
- Add Blueberries: Gently fold in the blueberries.
- Shape: Roll the dough into a slab and cut into sticks or bone shapes.
- Chill: Refrigerate for 30 minutes or dehydrate for a longer shelf life.
- Storage: Store in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for later.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stick
- Calories: Approx. 60
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 3.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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