I have reached a new level of awesomeness – or perhaps absurdity, depending on how you look at it – of baking.

Behold: Homemade – and pretty healthy – dog treats.

Now, I don’t own a dog, so that’s partially why this is perhaps absurd. I like dogs quite a bit, but I’ve always classified myself as more of a cat person. However, I have this talent – if you will – in which all of my friends’ pets become my buddies. I’m not at a place in life in which I have the capability or energy required to take care of a pet of my own, so other peoples’ fur babies become my friends.

These treats are super easy to make, and the dough is a really nice one to work with. {Talking about dough like that sounds weird, but if you’re the baking type, you’ll understand.} I have made them several times for various friends’ doggies, and I made them again a few weeks ago when I went to visit my cousin Nadia, and of course I got to meet her doggie, Rugi.

The dogs seem to enjoy these treats, and it always feels great knowing that I’m making something for an animal that is simple but also good for them. I should note that since there are no preservatives in these treats, they will start to mold quickly – so it’s best to keep them refrigerated to last longer. Also, this recipe cuts in half very easily. So if your canine buddy doesn’t need a ton of treats, simply cut the recipe in half to make less. I think these would also make a great gift for any of the dog lovers in your life!

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Homemade Peanut Butter Dog Treats.
Yield: It will vary based on the size of your cookie cutters and the thickness of the dough.

Ingredients:
– 2/3 cup pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 2 large eggs
– 3 cups whole wheat flour, or more, as needed [You can replace this with all-purpose flour if you want; sometimes I do one or the other, or a mix of the two.]

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat; set aside.
2. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment [or with an electric hand mixer], beat the pumpkin puree, peanut butter, and eggs on medium-high speed, until well combined (about 1-2 minutes). Gradually add about 2 to 2.5 cups of the flour at low speed, and beat the mixture until just incorporated. Add the rest of the flour just until the dough is no longer sticky.
3. Lightly flour a cutting board or your counter, and knead the dough 3-4 times until it comes together. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Cut out desired shapes with your cookie cutters, and place shapes onto the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake until the edges are golden brown, about 20-25 minutes, depending on desired crunchiness. Allow to cool completely, and serve to your furry canine friends!

+ Recipe from Damn Delicious.