Vet-Approved Content
These look like Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups because of the ice molds I used. Photos: Allison Gray/PetfulI’m always on the lookout for simple chilled dog treat recipes I can try out in the summer, and this one really caught my eye.
Not only is it simple to make (and offers easy cleanup afterward), but there are also a lot of opportunities to make adorable shapes with the silicone mold.
This recipe originally called for peanut butter. But Dr. Judy Morgan, DVM, CVA, CVCP, CVFT, who reviewed this recipe for Petful, says, “I do not like to use peanut butter when making food or treats for dogs. Peanuts (a legume) are commonly affected by aflatoxins, a toxin produced by molds.”
“Not to mention the xylitol risk with peanut butter,” Dr. Morgan adds. “Almond butter is a much better substitute.”
You don’t have to turn on your oven at all for these simple chilled dog treats.Nut Butter Chilled Dog Treats
Ingredients
- 1 cup almond butter with no added salt or sugar
- 1 cup coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Melt the mixture over low heat while you stir.Directions
- Combine all ingredients in a small saucepan.
- Melt the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly.
- Allow it to cool slightly. Then pour into silicone ice cube molds.
- Place the molds into the refrigerator for a few hours, until solid.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
You could use any silicone mold you want, such as paw print–shaped ones. This is what I had on hand.Since I don’t have any fun silicone ice cube molds, I decided to use some silicone cupcake liners instead and filled each about ⅓ to ½ full.
After they’d set, the treats looked like caramel-colored Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.
According to 12Tomatoes, coconut oil “improves overall skin and coat health” in dogs and also has “been linked to preventing diabetes and heart disease.”
This recipe makes about 2–3 dozen chilled dog treats.
Banjo loves these chilled dog treats, which are perfect for hot summer days.Adapted from 12Tomatoes.
This pet treat recipe was reviewed by a veterinarian, Dr. Judy Morgan, DVM, CVA, CVCP, CVFT, and is safe for dogs in moderation, but is not a substitute for a complete balanced diet. This recipe was last reviewed and updated March 8, 2019. Dr. Morgan operates 2 award-winning veterinary hospitals in New Jersey that offer an integrative approach to pet care. With a passion for healing her patients with whole foods, she has written several books on holistic pet care — including Yin & Yang Nutrition for Dogs, a holistic cookbook for pets.
