Apple & Carrot Hard Bones for Dogs Recipe

Introduction

These Apple & Carrot Hard Bones are a wholesome, homemade treat that your dog will love. Packed with natural ingredients like apple, carrot, and oats, they offer a crunchy texture that’s both tasty and healthy.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup finely grated carrot
• 1/2 cup finely chopped apple (peeled, core removed)
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil (optional, for added moisture)
• 1 cup oat flour (or whole wheat flour)
• 1/4 cup rolled oats (optional, for texture)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the grated carrot, chopped apple, egg, applesauce, and olive oil if using. Stir until well blended.
3. Step 3: Gradually add the oat flour and rolled oats if using. Mix until a thick, stiff dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, add more flour one tablespoon at a time.
4. Step 4: Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Use a bone-shaped cookie cutter to cut out treats, or shape them into sticks or bars for a simpler option.
5. Step 5: Place the bones on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the treats are golden brown and hard. For extra crunch, turn off the oven and let the bones cool inside with the door slightly ajar.
6. Step 6: Let the hard bones cool completely on a wire rack before offering them to your dog.

Tips & Variations

• Use coconut oil instead of olive oil for a subtle flavor and added health benefits.
• If you prefer gluten-free treats, use certified gluten-free oat flour and oats.
• Try adding a pinch of cinnamon for a natural dog-safe flavor boost.
• Store leftover bones in an airtight container to keep them fresh and crunchy.

Storage

Store the hard bones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed bag for up to three months. To serve after freezing, thaw at room temperature. These treats do not require reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Are these hard bones safe for all dog sizes?

Yes, but always supervise your dog when giving hard treats. For smaller dogs, break the bones into smaller pieces to prevent choking hazards.

Can I use other fruits or vegetables instead of apple and carrot?

Yes, you can experiment with dog-safe fruits and veggies like pumpkin or sweet potato. Avoid toxic ingredients such as grapes, onions, or garlic.

Apple & Carrot Hard Bones for Dogs Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 689 reviews

These Apple & Carrot Hard Bones are healthy, homemade dog treats made with fresh carrot, apple, and wholesome oat flour. Baked to a crunchy texture, they provide a nutritious snack that dogs will love, combining natural sweetness with added vitamins and fiber.

• Author: Joe
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 20 treats depending on size 1x
• Category: Dog Treats
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Pet Food

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Wet Ingredients

• 1/2 cup finely grated carrot
• 1/2 cup finely chopped apple (peeled, core removed)
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil (optional, for added moisture)

Dry Ingredients

• 1 cup oat flour (or whole wheat flour)
• 1/4 cup rolled oats (optional, for texture)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
2. Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the grated carrot, chopped apple, egg, applesauce, and olive oil (if using). Stir these wet ingredients until well blended, ensuring an even moisture distribution.
3. Add the Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the oat flour and rolled oats (if using) to the wet mixture. Mix thoroughly until a thick, stiff dough forms. If the dough is too sticky to handle, incorporate additional oat flour one tablespoon at a time to reach the desired consistency.
4. Shape the Bones: Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough to approximately 1/4 inch thickness. Use a bone-shaped cookie cutter to cut out individual treats, or alternatively, form sticks or bars for a simpler shape.
5. Bake: Arrange the shaped treats on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. Bake until the treats are golden brown and firm to the touch. For added crunchiness, turn off the oven after baking, and allow the treats to cool inside with the door slightly ajar.
6. Cool Completely: Transfer the baked bones to a wire rack and let them cool completely before giving them to your dog to ensure they are fully hardened and safe to chew.

Notes

• Use unsweetened applesauce to avoid added sugars harmful to dogs.
• Oat flour provides a gluten-free option, but whole wheat flour can be used if preferred and not allergic.
• The optional olive or coconut oil adds moisture and healthy fats but can be omitted if desired.
• Always supervise your dog when giving hard treats to prevent choking.
• Store treats in an airtight container for up to two weeks or freeze for longer storage.

Keywords: dog treats, homemade dog treats, apple carrot dog bones, healthy dog snacks, baked dog treats, natural dog treats