Carrot & Pumpkin Chews for Dogs Recipe
There’s something extra special about making treats for your furry friends, and these Carrot & Pumpkin Chews for Dogs are truly a hit in any household with pups. This recipe uses wholesome ingredients you probably already have, and you’ll love seeing those tails wag every time you pull these homemade goodies out. These chews are colorful from carrots, moist thanks to pumpkin, and perfectly firm for snacking—plus, you know exactly what’s inside. If you’re ready to bake up a batch of healthy dog treats, you’re in for a rewarding kitchen adventure!
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Pumpkin Chews:
- 1 cup pumpkin purée (unsweetened)
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup water (as needed for dough consistency)
Carrot Chews:
- 1/2 cup finely grated carrot
For Dough:
- 2 1/2 cups whole wheat flour (or oat flour for gluten-free)
How to Make Carrot & Pumpkin Chews for Dogs
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 325°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This little bit of prep ensures the chews don’t stick and gives them the right environment to bake evenly. You’re already on the way to the perfect Carrot & Pumpkin Chews for Dogs!
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, stir together the pumpkin purée, grated carrot, and egg. Mixing these ingredients first creates a smooth, colorful base. The carrot adds lovely bright flecks throughout, making each treat look irresistible—even before they go in the oven!
Step 3: Work in the Flour
Add the whole wheat or oat flour a bit at a time, stirring as you go. This helps you monitor the dough’s consistency; you’re aiming for a thick, workable texture. If it seems a bit dry or crumbly, splash in a little water (start with just a tablespoon or two) until things come together nicely and you can form a soft dough.
Step 4: Roll and Shape the Dough
Lightly flour your work surface, then roll the dough out to about 1/4-inch thickness. Here’s your chance to make the treats fun—grab your favorite cookie cutters or simply cut the dough into small squares. Your pets won’t care about the shape, but you get to be creative and add a personal touch with each batch of Carrot & Pumpkin Chews for Dogs.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the shaped chews on your prepared baking sheet and slide them into the oven. Bake for 35–40 minutes, keeping an eye on them toward the end so they don’t over-brown. They should be firm and lightly golden around the edges when done.
Step 6: Dry the Chews for Extra Crunch
Turn off the oven and leave the baking sheet inside, propping the oven door slightly open. Let the chews dry out in the warmth for 1–2 hours; this gives them that satisfying, long-lasting texture that dogs love, making these Carrot & Pumpkin Chews for Dogs as close to store-bought as you can get—only so much better and healthier!
Step 7: Cool Completely
Once they’re cooled down, the chews are ready for happy taste-testers. Letting them cool ensures the final texture and keeps your pups safe from hot snacks. You’ll love seeing them crunch down on their fresh, homemade treats!
How to Serve Carrot & Pumpkin Chews for Dogs
Garnishes
While your pups aren’t looking for fancy toppings, you can always sprinkle just a little unsweetened grated carrot on top before baking for a pop of color and extra nutrition. Keep it simple, letting the natural colors of the Carrot & Pumpkin Chews for Dogs shine through.
Side Dishes
If you want to create a wholesome snack plate, you can serve these chews alongside a few dog-safe fruits or veggies—think apple slices (seedless), fresh green beans, or a dollop of plain Greek yogurt. It’s a lovely way to make snack time feel special!
Creative Ways to Present
Surprise your pup with a treat jar display! Stack the Carrot & Pumpkin Chews for Dogs in a glass jar with a ribbon or pop a few into a small paper bag for on-the-go adventures. For birthdays or training sessions, arrange them in a circle around a healthy pup-cake or serve as part of a DIY treat tasting platter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once the chews are completely cool, stash them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to two weeks at room temperature. Just be sure to keep the lid tightly sealed so they don’t get chewy or soft from moisture. Carrot & Pumpkin Chews for Dogs are great to have ready for treat time any day!
Freezing
If you’d like to make a big batch in advance, these chews freeze beautifully. Place them in a zip-top freezer bag or freezer-safe container; they’ll keep for up to three months. You can thaw a few at a time overnight or for a couple of hours on the counter, so there’s never a shortage of healthy, homemade snacks at hand.
Reheating
While dogs happily eat these chews at room temperature, you can give them a quick refresh if you wish. Pop a few in a low oven (about 250°F) for five minutes for extra crunch and to bring back that freshly-baked aroma—just be sure to let them cool before serving to avoid hot spots.
FAQs
Are Carrot & Pumpkin Chews for Dogs suitable for puppies?
Yes, these chews are gentle enough for most puppies, thanks to their soft-yet-firm texture and natural ingredients. Always break them into smaller pieces to prevent choking and introduce new treats slowly to check for any sensitivities.
Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pure pumpkin purée?
No—it’s important to use only pure, unsweetened pumpkin purée. Pumpkin pie filling contains sugars and spices that aren’t safe for dogs. If in doubt, always read your labels!
What’s the best way to make Carrot & Pumpkin Chews for Dogs gluten-free?
Simply swap in oat flour for the whole wheat flour in this recipe. Oat flour is gentle on sensitive tummies and creates chews that are just as hearty and delicious.
How can I make the chews crunchier or softer?
For crunchier treats, extend the drying time in the oven or bake a little longer (keeping a close eye to avoid burning). For a softer chew, shorten the oven drying step—just note they’ll have a shorter shelf life and may need refrigeration.
Can I add other dog-friendly veggies or flavors?
Absolutely! Try mixing in a bit of shredded zucchini, finely diced apple, or a spoonful of plain peanut butter. Always make sure any additions are dog-safe and free from added salt or sugar.
Final Thoughts
Baking a batch of Carrot & Pumpkin Chews for Dogs isn’t just a way to show your pets some extra love—it’s also a fun, rewarding project that makes tails wag and treats healthier. Give these a try and see just how excited your dogs get for snacks made right in your own kitchen!
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Carrot & Pumpkin Chews for Dogs Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes (plus drying time)
- Yield: 30–40 small chews 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Carrot & Pumpkin Chews for Dogs are a delightful homemade dog treat option packed with wholesome ingredients. Your furry friend will love the combination of pumpkin and carrot in these tasty snacks.
Ingredients
Pumpkin Chews:
- 1 cup pumpkin purée (unsweetened)
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup water (as needed for dough consistency)
Carrot Chews:
- 1/2 cup finely grated carrot
For Dough:
- 2 1/2 cups whole wheat flour (or oat flour for gluten-free)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 325°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine pumpkin purée, grated carrot, and egg. Gradually mix in the flour until a thick dough forms. Add water if needed for consistency.
- Roll and Cut: Roll out the dough on a floured surface, cut into shapes or squares.
- Bake: Place treats on the baking sheet and bake for 35–40 minutes until firm and golden.
- Dry: Turn off the oven, leave chews inside with the door slightly open for 1–2 hours to dry.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the chews to cool completely before serving.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer storage.
- Use pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dog Treats
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Pet-Friendly
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 small chew
- Calories: 35
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 5 mg
- Fat: 1 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
