Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I’ve always been cautious about what I feed my dog, especially when it comes to treats. After discovering how easy and rewarding it is to make homemade dog treats, I decided to try these banana and peanut butter chew sticks. They’re not only simple to prepare but also free from preservatives and artificial additives. The combination of ripe bananas and natural peanut butter creates a deliciously chewy snack that keeps my dog engaged and satisfied. Whether it’s for training, teething, or just because, these treats have become a staple in our household.

Homemade Banana and Peanut Butter Chew Sticks for Dogs

Ingredients

2 ripe bananas
½ cup natural peanut butter (unsweetened, xylitol-free)
1½ cups oat flour
1 tablespoon coconut oil

(Hint: For the full list of ingredients and measurements, check out the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the Oven: I set my oven to 300°F (150°C) and lined a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mash the Bananas: In a large mixing bowl, I mashed the ripe bananas until smooth.
Combine Wet Ingredients: To the mashed bananas, I added the peanut butter and coconut oil, mixing until the mixture was creamy and well-blended.
Add Oat Flour: Gradually, I stirred in the oat flour until a firm, pliable dough formed.
Shape the Dough: I rolled the dough into logs about ½ inch thick and 5-6 inches long, placing them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake:
- For softer chews: I baked them at 300°F (150°C) for 25-30 minutes.
- For firmer chews: I reduced the oven temperature to 200°F (90°C) and baked for 1.5-2 hours.
Cool Completely: After baking, I let the chew sticks cool completely before serving them to my dog.

Servings and Timing

Yield: Approximately 10–12 chew sticks
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes (or 1.5–2 hours for firmer chews)
Total Time: 35–40 minutes (or up to 2 hours 10 minutes for firmer chews)

Variations

Cinnamon: I sometimes add a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor and its anti-inflammatory benefits.
Pumpkin Puree: Mixing in a tablespoon of pumpkin puree adds fiber and a seasonal twist.
Blueberries: For an antioxidant boost, I incorporate a few mashed blueberries into the dough.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: I store the chew sticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Freezing: For longer storage, I freeze them for up to 3 months. Before serving, I let them thaw for a few minutes.

FAQs

Can I use regular flour instead of oat flour?

I prefer oat flour because it’s gentle on digestion, but if I don’t have it, I grind rolled oats into a fine powder to make oat flour at home.

Is it safe to use peanut butter with added sugar?

I always choose natural, unsweetened peanut butter without xylitol, as xylitol is toxic to dogs and can cause serious health issues.

Can I make these chews without baking?

Absolutely! I can shape the dough into bite-sized pieces and refrigerate them for 1-2 hours until firm for a no-bake option.

My dog has a sensitive stomach. Are these chews suitable?

Yes, the ingredients are gentle on digestion. However, I always consult my vet before introducing new treats to my dog’s diet.

How can I make these chews last longer?

For firmer, longer-lasting chews, I bake them at a lower temperature for a longer time or use a food dehydrator.

Conclusion

Making these homemade banana and peanut butter chew sticks has been a delightful experience for both me and my dog. They’re a healthy, natural alternative to store-bought treats, and I love knowing exactly what’s in them. Whether it’s for training, teething, or just a special snack, these chew sticks have become a favorite in our household. I encourage other dog owners to try making them; it’s a simple way to show love and care for our furry friends.