If you’re looking to spoil your pup with a homemade, healthy treat, these peanut butter and pumpkin bars are exactly what you need. Dogs love them, they’re simple to make, and they’re packed with nutrients that are as beneficial as they are delicious. Not only will this recipe give you a way to make your pup smile, but it will also add a delightful cooking experience to your day. In this post, I’ll walk you through how to make these mouth-watering peanut butter and pumpkin bars step-by-step and share tips on how to make them perfect every time.

Let’s dive in and start baking!

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Why Pumpkin and Peanut Butter are a Perfect Match for Dogs

Peanut Butter is one of those classic dog favorites, and for good reason. It’s rich in protein and healthy fats, offering nutrients like vitamin B and vitamin E, which support your dog’s energy levels, skin, and coat. Plus, it has an irresistibly creamy texture that dogs just love. When choosing peanut butter, make sure it’s xylitol-free since xylitol is toxic to dogs.

Pumpkin, on the other hand, is a powerhouse of vitamins, fiber, and minerals that contribute to a healthy digestive system. It’s low in calories but high in nutrients like beta-carotene (converted into vitamin A), which promotes a shiny coat and supports eye health. Its natural sweetness complements the peanut butter, making this an irresistible treat for dogs.

The combination of peanut butter and pumpkin creates a balanced, flavorful treat that’s nutritious, low-cost, and a surefire way to win your pup’s heart!

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Ingredients for Peanut Butter & Pumpkin Bars for Dogs

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients. You might already have these items on hand, making it an easy treat to whip up any time you want to show your dog some love.

• 1 cup of pure pumpkin puree (make sure it’s pure, not pumpkin pie filling which contains added sugars and spices that could be harmful to dogs)
• 1/2 cup of peanut butter (unsweetened, xylitol-free)
• 1 1/2 cups of oats (ground into a fine powder for a smoother bar or left whole for texture)
• Optional add-ins: A pinch of cinnamon for flavor (check with your vet if your dog is sensitive) or a spoonful of honey for extra sweetness.

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Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Peanut Butter & Pumpkin Bars

1: Prepare Your Workspace and Ingredients

• Start by measuring out all your ingredients. This helps keep the process organized and stress-free.
• If using whole oats, grind them into a powder using a food processor or blender for a softer texture. However, if you want a chewier, more textured bar, you can leave the oats whole.

2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

• In a medium bowl, combine the pumpkin puree and peanut butter. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This will ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed in each bar, giving your dog a burst of flavor with every bite.

3: Add the Oats Gradually

• Slowly add the ground oats to the pumpkin-peanut butter mixture, stirring as you go. The oats help absorb moisture and bind the bars together, so they don’t crumble.
• Keep stirring until you get a dough-like consistency. If the mixture feels too sticky, add a bit more oats. If it’s too dry, add a small splash of water or a bit more pumpkin.

4: Press the Mixture into a Baking Dish

• Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. This makes it easy to remove the bars once they’re set.
• Spread the mixture evenly into the dish, pressing down firmly to ensure an even thickness. Pressing the mixture down helps the bars hold their shape and makes them easier to cut.

5: Chill in the Fridge or Freezer

• Place the dish in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours (or in the freezer for 30-45 minutes). Chilling helps the bars firm up, making them easier to cut into clean squares.
• If you’re in a hurry, the freezer will set the bars more quickly without affecting the taste or texture.

6: Cut into Squares

• Once the bars are set, lift them out of the dish using the parchment paper, and place them on a cutting board. Cut them into bite-sized squares. The size of the squares can be adjusted based on your dog’s size and preferences. Smaller dogs might prefer small cubes, while larger dogs might love a bigger bite.

7: Store and Serve

• Place the bars in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, keep them in the freezer for up to three months. Frozen bars are also a great option for a refreshing treat on hot days.
• If serving straight from the freezer, let the bars thaw for a few minutes so they’re soft enough for your dog to enjoy.

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Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter & Pumpkin Bars Every Time

• Choose the Right Peanut Butter: Always double-check that your peanut butter is xylitol-free, as xylitol is highly toxic to dogs. Look for a natural peanut butter with no added sugars or salts.
• Use Whole or Ground Oats Based on Texture Preference: If you want a smoother, more cohesive bar, grind the oats into a powder. If your dog enjoys a bit of texture, you can leave them whole or even use rolled oats for a chewier bar.
• Customize the Flavor: While the basic recipe is tasty on its own, feel free to customize. A small dash of cinnamon adds a cozy flavor that many dogs enjoy, and a teaspoon of honey can add a touch of sweetness.
• Add Some Homemade Peanut Butter: For an extra homemade touch, try making your own Homemade Peanut Butter for Dogs. It’s easy to make, xylitol-free, and has a richer, nuttier flavor.

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Nutritional Benefits of Peanut Butter & Pumpkin Bars

These treats are more than just tasty; they’re a great way to support your dog’s overall health.

• Pumpkin for Digestive Health: Pumpkin is rich in fiber, which helps regulate digestion and can alleviate issues like constipation or diarrhea in dogs. It’s also a natural source of vitamins A, C, and E, all of which contribute to a shiny coat and robust immune system.
• Peanut Butter for Protein and Energy: Peanut butter provides a dose of protein that’s perfect for active pups, giving them energy for play and exercise. The healthy fats in peanut butter also promote a healthy coat and skin, making it a valuable ingredient in your dog’s diet.
• Oats for Heart Health: Oats are a fantastic source of dietary fiber, protein, and antioxidants, promoting heart health and stable blood sugar levels. Oats are also gentle on sensitive stomachs, making this treat a good option for dogs with food sensitivities.

Looking for more wholesome treat ideas? Check out Delicious and Nutritious Oatmeal Cookies for Dogs for another oat-based recipe that’s easy on the tummy!

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Why Homemade Dog Treats Are a Great Choice

Homemade dog treats, like these peanut butter and pumpkin bars, have several advantages over store-bought options. Here’s why making treats at home is a great decision for you and your pup:

• You Control the Ingredients: Many commercial dog treats contain preservatives, artificial colors, and fillers. By making your own treats, you have complete control over every ingredient, ensuring your dog only gets wholesome, safe ingredients.
• It’s Cost-Effective: High-quality, natural dog treats can be expensive. Making treats at home is often more affordable and doesn’t require you to compromise on quality.
• Special Bonding Time with Your Dog: There’s something wonderful about preparing food for your furry friend. They can smell the ingredients as you mix and bake, building anticipation. This is a small way to bond and show them how much they’re loved.

For a fun twist, try these Banana and Honey Biscuits for Dogs or the yummy Blueberry Pumpkin and Oatmeal Chews for Dogs—both are easy to make and loaded with nutritious ingredients.

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Storing and Serving Peanut Butter & Pumpkin Bars Safely

To keep these treats fresh and tasty, follow these simple storage tips:

• In the Refrigerator: Keep the bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Chilling them keeps the peanut butter and pumpkin fresh and preserves their texture.
• In the Freezer: For longer storage, place the bars in the freezer where they’ll keep for up to three months. This is perfect if you like making larger batches. Frozen treats can also be a great way to cool down your dog on a hot day—just let them thaw for a few minutes to soften up.

If you love treating your dog to homemade snacks, consider exploring more options on mydogrecipe.com. We have a variety of recipes perfect for

every season and every taste, from crunchy to chewy to frozen!

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Creative Variations on Peanut Butter & Pumpkin Bars

While the basic recipe is delicious, here are a few variations to try:

• Add Blueberries: For a boost of antioxidants, toss in a handful of fresh or frozen blueberries. They add a hint of sweetness and provide vitamins like C and K. You can also try our Blueberry Pumpkin and Oatmeal Chews for Dogs for a similar treat!
• Use Coconut Oil: Adding a tablespoon of coconut oil can give the bars a silky texture and provide healthy fats that are beneficial for skin and coat health.
• Make Frozen Pupsicles: Pour the mixture into a silicone mold and freeze for a refreshing twist. For inspiration, check out our Pumpkin Pupsicles for Dogs recipe.

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Enjoying a Healthy Treat Together

Peanut butter and pumpkin bars are a wonderful way to spoil your dog without compromising their health. They’re easy to make, nutritious, and totally irresistible. Not only will your pup love these, but they’ll benefit from the wholesome ingredients in every bite. Plus, making these treats is a great bonding activity that will leave both you and your pup with wagging tails and happy memories.

Whether you’re looking for a fun baking project or a way to pamper your pup, these peanut butter and pumpkin bars are the perfect solution. Try them out and see how much your dog loves them. For more easy and nutritious dog treat recipes, visit mydogrecipe.com and follow us on Pinterest for daily inspiration and recipe ideas!

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