Christmas Cookies for the Fur babies

'Tis the season to be jolly, and what better way to spread festive cheer than by including your four-legged companions in the Christmas celebrations? This year, let's embark on a delightful baking adventure to create some tail-wagging treats for your furry friends. Get ready to whip up some homemade dog-friendly cookies that will have your pup doing a happy dance!

Ingredients:

2 cups whole wheat flour

1 cup rolled oats

1/2 cup apples mashed into puree or unsweetened applesauce

1/2 cup pumpkin puree

1/4 cup peanut butter 

1/4 cup coconut oil, melted

1 teaspoon cinnamon*

1 egg

*Cinnamon is deemed non-toxic to dogs by the ASPCA. In modest amounts, specifically one teaspoon or less per serving as an occasional treat, it is entirely safe and may even provide health advantages. Nonetheless, excessive consumption can lead to mouth or stomach irritation.

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:

In a large bowl, combine the whole wheat flour and rolled oats. These ingredients form the base of our dog-friendly cookie dough, providing a healthy and hearty treat for your pup.

3. Blend in the Wet Ingredients:

Add the apple puree, pumpkin puree, peanut butter, melted coconut oil, cinnamon, and egg to the dry ingredients. Mix well until a dough forms. The combination of pumpkin, peanut butter and coconut oil not only adds flavor but also provides nutritional benefits for your furry friend.

4. Roll and Cut:

Flour a surface and roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use festive cookie cutters to create fun shapes that resonate with the holiday spirit. Stars, bones, and Christmas trees are excellent choices!

5. Bake to Perfection:

Place the cutouts onto the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Keep a watchful eye to ensure they don't over-bake.

6. Cool and Serve:

Allow the cookies to cool completely before serving them to your pup. Once cooled, watch as your furry friend eagerly devours these homemade delights.

7. Share the Joy:

Consider packaging a few cookies in a festive bag and sharing them with fellow dog owners in your neighborhood. It's a sweet way to spread the joy to all the fur babies in your community.

Safety Tips:

While these cookies are made with dog-friendly ingredients, always check with your vet if your dog has specific dietary restrictions or allergies.

Including your pets in holiday festivities fosters a sense of togetherness and joy. These homemade dog-friendly Christmas cookies are not only a delicious treat but also a thoughtful way to show your furry friend how much they mean to you during this special season. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat the oven, and let the baking festivities begin! Wishing you and your pup a howl-iday season filled with love, laughter, and tasty treats!