Meet your new favorite homemade treat: Peanut Butter and Pumpkin Chew Twists for Dogs! These golden, aromatic twists are the ultimate love letter to your pup, blending the cozy flavors of pumpkin and peanut butter in a chewy snack that’s as fun to make as it is for your dog to munch on. Packed with wholesome ingredients, every twist delivers the sort of tail-wagging joy only truly homemade goodies can offer. Whether you’re baking to treat your furry friend or looking for an easy way to sneak some healthy nutrients into their routine, these chew twists make it a total win for you both.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the things I absolutely adore about these Peanut Butter and Pumpkin Chew Twists for Dogs is how each ingredient plays a starring role. You’ll probably recognize every item from your pantry, and together they turn an everyday afternoon into a four-legged celebration.
- Pumpkin purée (unsweetened): Adds moisture, subtle sweetness, and a dose of fiber that’s fantastic for your dog’s digestion.
- Natural peanut butter (xylitol-free): Irresistibly flavorful, protein-packed, and perfectly safe—just double-check for “xylitol-free” on the label.
- Large eggs: Bind the dough and add a lovely richness, not to mention a boost of protein.
- Whole wheat flour (plus more for dusting): Hearty and wholesome, this forms the structure for the twists; sub in oat flour if you need gluten-free.
- Cinnamon: Just a hint for fragrance and an antioxidant kick—dogs love the aroma, too!
- Olive oil: A splash of healthy fats helps keep these chew twists moist and shiny.
- Water (as needed): Adjusts the dough to a perfectly pliable texture—use just what’s needed for easy rolling.
How to Make Peanut Butter and Pumpkin Chew Twists for Dogs
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s piping hot and ready for those chewy, delicious twists. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this makes clean-up a breeze and ensures your twists don’t stick. A little prep upfront means you can focus on the fun part: dough-twisting!
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin purée, natural peanut butter, eggs, olive oil, and cinnamon until smooth. I love how the cinnamon and peanut butter fill the kitchen with mouthwatering warmth—my dog always starts hovering at this stage! Make sure everything is thoroughly mixed for that perfect flavor in every bite.
Step 3: Incorporate the Flour and Adjust the Dough
Gradually add the whole wheat flour to your wet mixture, stirring as you go. The dough will come together and get stiffer with each addition. If it seems too dry or crumbly, don’t worry—simply add water a tablespoon at a time, mixing until you have a pliable, soft dough that doesn’t stick to your hands.
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
Dust a clean countertop with a little extra flour and roll out your dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Even rolling guarantees consistent twists that bake up evenly—plus, it’s oddly satisfying to knead a homemade dog treat dough!
Step 5: Cut and Twist
Using a knife or pizza cutter, slice the dough lengthwise into long strips. Pair two strips together, gently twisting them into spirals—it doesn’t have to be perfect, because your pup will love them just the same. Place each twist on your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little room between for air to circulate.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Now, pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The twists should turn golden and feel firm to the touch. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before you offer them to your eager four-legged taste tester—cooling gives them the ideal chewy crunch!
How to Serve Peanut Butter and Pumpkin Chew Twists for Dogs
Garnishes
While your dog won’t miss fancy garnishes, you can dust finished twists with a pinch of extra cinnamon for a pretty finish (and even more aroma). If you want to go all out, tie bunches together with twine and add a name tag for gifting to dog-loving friends.
Side Dishes
If you’re celebrating a special occasion, how about an all-dog platter? Pair Peanut Butter and Pumpkin Chew Twists for Dogs with homemade frozen yogurt bites or sliced carrots for a healthy treat spread. These twists are filling, so small nibbles of fresh apple or blueberries on the side also make a great light touch.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn treat time into playtime! Stack the twists in a treat jar or arrange them like breadsticks in a cute mug on your counter. They’re also perfect for stuffing into a doggie gift basket. At birthday parties or dog playdates, serve them from a lined basket so each pup feels extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Homemade dog treats are best enjoyed fresh, but these twists store beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Keep the container sealed to preserve their delightful chew and prevent them from drying out.
Freezing
For longer storage, stash any extra Peanut Butter and Pumpkin Chew Twists for Dogs in a freezer-safe zip-top bag or airtight container. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to three months—simply thaw before serving. Freezing is fantastic for making a big batch ahead for busy weeks!
Reheating
If your twists lose a little chew or feel too firm after a few days, you can refresh them in a low 250°F oven for about 5 minutes. Be sure to cool them thoroughly before serving to your dog. Never use a microwave, as it can cause uneven heating or overheating.
FAQs
Can I use a different flour if my dog is sensitive to wheat?
Absolutely! Oat flour is a wonderful substitute and makes these Peanut Butter and Pumpkin Chew Twists for Dogs entirely wheat-free. You can also use a blend of rice and coconut flour, but expect a slightly different texture.
Is it safe to use any peanut butter?
Always check the label and use only xylitol-free peanut butter, as xylitol is extremely toxic to dogs. Opt for a natural, unsweetened peanut butter made from just peanuts (and maybe a hint of salt) for the healthiest treat.
What if my dough is too sticky or too dry?
If your dough feels sticky, sprinkle in a touch more flour and knead until smooth. If it’s too dry or crumbly, mix in water a tablespoon at a time until you reach that perfectly soft, workable consistency.
How big should I make each chew twist?
Twists roughly 5 to 6 inches long and about half an inch wide are a great size for most dogs, but feel free to adjust based on your pup’s size and chewing habits. Tiny twists are wonderful as training treats for small dogs, while larger ones keep bigger pups busy.
Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of plain pumpkin?
Stick with plain, unsweetened pumpkin purée! Pumpkin pie filling contains sugars and spices that aren’t safe for dogs. The natural pumpkin purée gives the desired flavor and all the healthy benefits without any risk.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to put a bright wag in your pup’s day, these Peanut Butter and Pumpkin Chew Twists for Dogs are calling your name! They’re simple, nutritious, and sure to become a homemade favorite in your house. I hope you have as much fun baking them as your furry friend will have gobbling them up—happy treating!
Print
Peanut Butter and Pumpkin Chew Twists for Dogs Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 20 chew twists
- Category: Dog Treats
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Pet-Friendly
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Peanut Butter and Pumpkin Chew Twists are a delightful homemade treat for your furry friend. Made with wholesome ingredients, these dog chews are sure to be a hit with your canine companion.
Ingredients
Pumpkin Chew Twists:
- 1 cup pumpkin purée (unsweetened)
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (xylitol-free)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 1/2 cups whole wheat flour (plus more for dusting)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup water (as needed for dough consistency)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine pumpkin purée, peanut butter, eggs, olive oil, and cinnamon until well mixed.
- Add Flour: Gradually incorporate the flour into the wet mixture to form a dough. Add water if needed for proper consistency.
- Roll and Cut: Roll out the dough, cut into strips, twist pairs of strips, and arrange on the baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and firm.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the twists to cool completely before offering them to your dog.
Notes
- Always use xylitol-free peanut butter for dog safety.
- Store treats in an airtight container for up to one week or freeze for longer shelf life.
- Oat flour can be used as a wheat-free alternative.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 twist
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
