As a devoted dog parent, I’ve always enjoyed finding new ways to spoil my pup with love—and food is a big part of that. The sight of those wagging tails and excited eyes when I bring out a homemade treat is priceless. Over the years, I’ve discovered that combining wholesome, pup-safe ingredients creates not only healthier alternatives to store-bought treats but also strengthens that special bond between me and my dog.

Today, I’m thrilled to share a recipe that’s been a big hit in our house: Peanut Butter & Pumpkin Pup Donuts. These adorable, dog-friendly donuts are easy to make, packed with nutritious ingredients, and full of flavors dogs adore. Whether you’re celebrating your pup’s birthday, a holiday, or just want to show them some extra love, these donuts are a perfect choice.

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Why Make Homemade Dog Treats?

If you’re like me, you’ve probably wondered about the ingredients in those store-bought treats. Many commercial dog snacks contain artificial additives, preservatives, and even unhealthy fillers that can be harmful to your pup over time. Making treats at home allows you to take control of what your dog is eating, ensuring every bite is filled with healthy, tail-wagging goodness.

Pumpkin, for instance, is rich in fiber and supports digestion, while peanut butter is a great source of protein and healthy fats. Combined, these two ingredients create a treat that’s as beneficial as it is tasty.

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Ingredients for Peanut Butter & Pumpkin Pup Donuts

This recipe makes about 12 mini donuts (depending on the size of your pan). Feel free to double the recipe if you have more furry friends or want to stock up!

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup whole wheat flour (or oat flour for a gluten-free option)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 cup pure pumpkin puree (make sure it’s 100% pumpkin with no added sugar or spices)
• 1/4 cup unsweetened peanut butter (choose one without xylitol, which is toxic to dogs)
• 1 egg (for binding and added protein)
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil (melted, for moisture)
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for a hint of natural sweetness)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a mini donut pan lightly with coconut oil or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour and baking powder. Mix well to ensure the baking powder is evenly distributed.

3. Blend the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, peanut butter, egg, melted coconut oil, and honey. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.

4. Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until a dough forms. The batter will be thick but soft. If it feels too dry, you can add a tablespoon of water or two to reach the right consistency.

5. Pipe the Batter into the Pan

Transfer the batter into a piping bag or a resealable plastic bag with a small corner cut off. Pipe the batter into the donut molds, filling each one about 3/4 full. Smooth out the tops with a spatula if needed.

6. Bake to Perfection

Place the pan in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the donuts are firm and lightly golden. To check if they’re done, insert a toothpick into one of the donuts—it should come out clean.

7. Cool Completely

Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial, as hot treats can burn your pup’s mouth!

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Optional Icing for a Special Touch

While these donuts are delightful on their own, you can add a simple, dog-safe icing for an extra special treat.

Ingredients for the Icing:

• 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt (unsweetened)
• 1 teaspoon peanut butter (unsweetened)

How to Make It:

Mix the yogurt and peanut butter together until smooth. Once the donuts are fully cooled, drizzle or spread the icing on top. Let the icing set for a few minutes before serving.

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Storage Tips

To keep these pup donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just thaw a donut for a few minutes before serving to your pup.

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Why Dogs Love These Donuts

The combination of peanut butter and pumpkin is a match made in doggie heaven. Pumpkin helps support healthy digestion, making these treats especially helpful for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Meanwhile, the peanut butter provides a flavor most dogs can’t resist—and it adds a dose of healthy fats and protein to keep their coats shiny and strong.

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Fun Variations to Try

If you’d like to mix things up, here are a few ideas:

• Blueberry Twist: Add a handful of fresh or dried blueberries for a boost of antioxidants.
• Carrot Crunch: Grate some fresh carrot into the batter for added texture and sweetness.
• Apple Cinnamon: Mix in a dash of ground cinnamon and some finely chopped apples for a fall-inspired treat.

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More Recipes for Dog Lovers

If you enjoyed this recipe, you’ll love exploring more homemade dog treats. Check out these fun ideas:

• Delicious and Nutritious Oatmeal Cookies for Dogs
• Banana and Honey Biscuits for Dogs: A Treat Your Pup Will Love
• Blueberry Pumpkin and Oatmeal Chews for Dogs

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Making Treats with Love: Peanut Butter & Pumpkin Pup Donuts (Part 2)

I hope you’re already excited about baking these adorable pup donuts for your furry friend! Let’s continue exploring how these treats can make a big difference in your dog’s life, along with additional tips, personal anecdotes, and even more dog-friendly recipes you’ll want to try next.

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How to Make Baking Special for You and Your Pup

For me, baking dog treats has always been more than just whipping up a quick snack—it’s about creating a little ritual of love and care. My dog, Max, knows the moment I reach for the mixing bowls that something special is happening. He’ll sit eagerly by the counter, watching every move, as if he’s my sous-chef (or maybe just hoping to sneak a lick of peanut butter).

Here’s a fun tip to make the experience even more enjoyable:

• Include Your Pup in the Process! While your dog obviously can’t do the mixing or baking, letting them “supervise” the process can be a bonding moment. Give them a lick of plain pumpkin puree or a small dollop of peanut butter while you work. The smell of these familiar ingredients will make their tails wag long before the donuts are even out of the oven!

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Benefits of Homemade Pumpkin Treats

Pumpkin is one of my favorite ingredients for homemade dog recipes, and here’s why:

• Supports Digestion: The natural fiber in pumpkin helps regulate digestion, which is especially useful if your dog occasionally experiences upset stomachs or irregular bowel movements.
• Rich in Nutrients: Pumpkin is packed with essential vitamins like A, C, and E, which promote healthy vision, a strong immune system, and glowing skin.
• Low in Calories: Unlike some other treats, pumpkin-based snacks are low in calories, making them great for dogs who are watching their weight or need a lighter option.

Pairing pumpkin with peanut butter creates a balance of nutrients and flavor, making these donuts a wholesome snack you can feel good about giving your pup.

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Tips for Customizing the Recipe

Every dog is unique, and their preferences (and tolerances) for certain ingredients can vary. Here are some simple adjustments you can make based on your pup’s needs:

For Gluten-Free Dogs:

Swap the whole wheat flour for oat flour or almond flour. Oat flour is especially great because it’s gentle on sensitive tummies and has a mild, nutty flavor dogs love.

For Extra Crunch:

If your pup enjoys crunchy treats, bake the donuts for an extra 3-5 minutes or let them cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar. This will dry them out a bit, creating a crispier texture.

For Pups with Allergies:

If your dog is sensitive to certain proteins or ingredients, such as eggs or honey, you can use alternatives:

• Replace the egg with a tablespoon of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed “egg” (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).
• Skip the honey entirely—it’s optional and mostly for flavor, so the donuts will still turn out great without it.

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Serving Ideas for Special Occasions

If you’re celebrating your dog’s birthday, gotcha day, or just want to make treat time extra special, consider these fun serving ideas:

• Doggie “Cake Stand”: Stack a few donuts on a small plate or stand and garnish with a sprinkle of shredded carrot or apple for decoration.
• Treat Hunt: Hide the donuts around the house or backyard and let your dog sniff them out for a fun, enriching activity.
• Party Favor: Hosting a doggie playdate? Wrap individual donuts in small treat bags and send them home with your pup’s friends as a tasty party favor.

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Building a Routine with Homemade Treats

One thing I’ve noticed since switching to homemade treats is how much better Max’s overall health and energy levels have been. Sure, it’s not just the donuts—consistent exercise and a balanced diet play a big role—but knowing that his snacks are free of artificial fillers and packed with nutrients makes a difference.

I’ve also started using these donuts as a training reward. Because they’re soft and easy to break apart, I can portion them into smaller pieces for positive reinforcement during training sessions. It’s amazing how motivated Max gets when he knows a piece of his favorite donut is on the way!

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Other Recipes You’ll Love

If you’re loving the idea of homemade dog treats, why stop at donuts? There are so many creative and nutritious recipes to try. Here are a few of my absolute favorites:

• Pumpkin Pupsicles for Dogs – These frozen treats are perfect for hot summer days and make a refreshing snack your dog will love.
• Homemade Peanut Butter for Dogs: A Tail-Wagging Treat Your Pup Will Love – If you want to take your peanut butter game to the next level, this recipe shows you how to make it from scratch!
• Blueberry Pumpkin and Oatmeal Chews for Dogs – These soft, chewy treats are packed with antioxidants and a fun twist on classic dog snacks.

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Sharing the Love on Pinterest

If you’re feeling inspired, don’t forget to share your homemade treat creations! I always love browsing My Dog Recipe’s Pinterest page for more ideas and seeing how other dog parents are getting creative in the kitchen. It’s a great way to connect with a community of fellow dog lovers who understand that our pets deserve nothing but the best.

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A Little Reminder: Homemade Treats in Moderation

While these Peanut Butter & Pumpkin Pup Donuts are healthy and nutritious, remember that they’re still a treat. Moderation is key to keeping your pup happy and healthy. Depending on your dog’s size and activity level, one donut a day (or even half a donut) is usually the perfect amount.

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Final Thoughts

Making these Peanut Butter & Pumpkin Pup Donuts has become one of my favorite ways to treat Max. The process is simple, the ingredients are wholesome, and the end result is a snack he genuinely loves. Plus, there’s something so rewarding about seeing the joy on his face every time I hand him one of these homemade goodies.

I encourage you to give this recipe a try and see how your furry friend reacts. Trust me, their wagging tail and happy dance will make all the effort worth it!

If you’re ready to explore even more fun and creative recipes, head over to My Dog Recipe for endless inspiration. Let’s keep baking love into every bite for our furry companions.

1. Silicone Donut Baking Pan

1. Silicone Donut Baking Pan

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