As a devoted dog parent, I love finding little ways to show my pup just how much they mean to me and homemade treats are one of my favorite methods. There’s something magical about the wagging tails and eager eyes that greet me when I bring out a snack made with love. Over time, I’ve learned that using wholesome, pup safe ingredients not only provides healthier alternatives to store bought treats but also deepens the special bond we share.

I’m excited to share a recipe that’s become a favorite in our home: Peanut Butter & Pumpkin Pup Donuts! These charming, dog ééfriendly donuts are simple to make, packed with wholesome ingredients, and bursting with flavors that pups love. Perfect for a birthday, a special holiday treat, or just a little extra love any day, these donuts are sure to make tails wag.

Why Bake Treats for Your Dog?

If you’re anything like me, you’ve likely questioned what goes into store bought dog treats. Many of them are packed with artificial additives, preservatives, and fillers that aren’t great for your pup over time. By making treats at home, you can take charge of every ingredient, ensuring each bite is wholesome, nutritious, and guaranteed to make tails wag.

Take pumpkin, for example it’s packed with fiber and helps support healthy digestion. Peanut butter adds a boost of protein and healthy fats. Together, these ingredients make a treat that’s not only delicious but also nourishing for your pup.

What You’ll Need for These Peanut Butter & Pumpkin Pup Donuts

This recipe yields about 12 mini donuts (depending on the size of your pan). Want more? Go ahead and double the batch to treat extra pups or keep some on hand for later!

Ingredients:

1 cup whole wheat flour (or oat flour for a gluten free option)
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ cup pure pumpkin puree (ensure it’s 100% pumpkin with no added sugar or spices)
¼ cup unsweetened peanut butter (make sure it’s xylitol free, as xylitol is toxic to dogs)
1 egg (for binding and extra protein)
2 tablespoons melted coconut oil (for moisture)
1 tablespoon honey (optional, for a touch of natural sweetness)

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a mini donut pan with coconut oil or nonstick spray to keep your donuts from sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine the whole wheat flour and baking powder, stirring well to evenly distribute the baking powder.

Step 3: Blend the Wet Ingredients

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

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until a soft dough forms. The batter should be thick but pliable. If it feels too dry, add 1–2 tablespoons of water until it reaches the right consistency.

Step 5: Pipe the Batter into the Pan

Spoon the batter into a piping bag or a resealable plastic bag with a small corner cut off. Pipe the batter into the mini donut molds, filling each about ¾ full. Smooth the tops with a spatula if needed.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the filled donut pan in the preheated oven and bake until the donuts are firm and lightly golden, about 12–15 minutes. Let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Cool Completely

Let the donuts sit in the pan for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool fully. This step is important hot treats can burn your pup’s mouth!

Add a Little Icing for a Fun Finishing Touch

While these donuts are delicious on their own, a simple, dog safe icing can make them extra special.

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons plain unsweetened Greek yogurt
1 teaspoon unsweetened peanut butter

How to Make It:
Stir the yogurt and peanut butter together until smooth. Once the donuts are completely cooled, drizzle or spread the icing on top. Let it set for a few minutes before serving.

Storage Tips

Keep your pup donuts fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months just thaw a donut for a few minutes before serving.

What Makes These Donuts Irresistible to Dogs

The pairing of peanut butter and pumpkin is pure doggie bliss. Pumpkin supports healthy digestion, making these treats especially gentle for pups with sensitive tummies. Meanwhile, peanut butter delivers a flavor dogs can’t resist, along with healthy fats and protein to help keep their coats shiny and strong.

Fun Twist Ideas for Your Pup Donuts

Want to mix things up? Here are a few tasty twists for your pup donuts:

Blueberry Twist: Add a handful of fresh or dried blueberries for a boost of antioxidants.
Carrot Crunch: Grate in some fresh carrot for extra texture and natural sweetness.
Apple Cinnamon: Stir in a dash of ground cinnamon and finely chopped apples for a cozy, fall inspired treat.

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

I hope you’re as excited as I am to bake these adorable pup donuts for your furry companion! In this next section, we’ll dive into how these treats can brighten your dog’s day, share extra tips and personal stories, and introduce even more dog friendly recipes you’ll love trying.

How to Make Baking Special for You and Your Pup

For me, baking dog treats is more than just whipping up a snack it’s a small ritual of love and care. My dog, Benji, knows the moment I grab the mixing bowls that something special is about to happen. He perches eagerly by the counter, watching every move like my personal sous chef or maybe just hoping to snag a taste of peanut butter!

Fun Tip: Make it a shared experience! While your pup can’t do the actual mixing or baking, letting them “supervise” turns the kitchen into a bonding space. Offer a lick of plain pumpkin puree or a tiny dab of peanut butter while you work the familiar smells will have their tail wagging long before the donuts even hit the oven.

Benefits of Homemade Pumpkin Treats

Pumpkin is one of my favorite ingredients for homemade dog recipes, and for good reason:

Supports Digestion: The natural fiber in pumpkin helps keep your pup’s digestive system running smoothly perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs or occasional tummy troubles.
Packed with Nutrients: Rich in vitamins A, C, and E, pumpkin supports healthy vision, a strong immune system, and a shiny, glowing coat.
Low in Calories: Pumpkin based treats are lighter than many store bought options, making them ideal for pups who need a low calorie snack.

Paired with peanut butter, these donuts strike the perfect balance of flavor and nutrition a wholesome, tail wagging treat you can feel great about giving your furry friend.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

Every pup is unique, and their tastes or sensitivities can differ. Here are a few easy ways to adjust the recipe to suit your dog:

For Gluten-Free Dogs:
Replace the whole wheat flour with oat flour or almond flour. Oat flour is especially gentle on sensitive stomachs and adds a mild, nutty flavor that most dogs adore.

For Extra Crunch:
If your pup loves a bit of crunch, bake the donuts for an additional 3–5 minutes, or let them cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar. This will dry them out slightly, giving a crispier texture.

For Pups with Allergies:
If your dog is sensitive to certain ingredients like eggs or honey, here are some easy swaps:

Egg substitute: Use 1 tablespoon unsweetened applesauce or a flax “egg” (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2½ tablespoons water).
Skip the honey: Honey is optional and mostly for flavor, so the donuts will still turn out delicious without it.

Serving Ideas for Special Occasions

Want to make treat time extra special for your pup’s birthday, gotcha day, or any celebration? Try these fun ideas:

Doggie “Cake Stand”: Stack a few donuts on a small plate or stand and sprinkle with shredded carrot or apple for a festive touch.
Treat Hunt: Hide the donuts around the house or yard and let your dog sniff them out fun and mentally stimulating!
Party Favor: Hosting a doggie playdate? Wrap individual donuts in small treat bags to send home as a tasty takeaway for furry friends.

Building a Routine with Homemade Treats

Since switching to homemade treats, I’ve noticed a real difference in Benji’s energy and overall health. Of course, it’s not just the donuts regular exercise and a balanced diet are key but knowing his snacks are free from artificial fillers and full of wholesome nutrients makes me feel good and keeps him thriving.

I’ve also begun using these donuts as training rewards. Their soft texture makes them easy to break into small pieces, perfect for positive reinforcement during sessions. It’s incredible how motivated Benji gets when he knows a bite of his favorite donut is coming!

A Little Reminder: Treats in Moderation

These Peanut Butter & Pumpkin Pup Donuts are healthy and nutritious, but remember 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 just right.

Final Thoughts

Making these donuts has become one of my favorite ways to spoil Benji. The process is simple, the ingredients are wholesome, and the end result is a snack he genuinely loves. There’s nothing quite like the joy on his face when I hand him a homemade treat!

I encourage you to give this recipe a try and watch your furry friend’s reaction. Their wagging tail and happy little dance will make every bit of effort worthwhile.

Pumpkin and Peanut butter Doggie Donuts

As a devoted dog parent, I love finding little ways to show my pup just how much they mean to me and homemade treats are one of my favorite methods. There’s something magical about the wagging tails and eager eyes that greet me when I bring out a snack made with love. Over time, I’ve learned that using wholesome, pup-safe ingredients not only provides healthier alternatives to store-bought treats but also deepens the special bond we share.

I’m excited to share a recipe that’s become a favorite in our home: Peanut Butter & Pumpkin Pup Donuts! These charming, dog-friendly donuts are simple to make, packed with wholesome ingredients, and bursting with flavors that pups love. Perfect for a birthday, a special holiday treat, or just a little extra love any day, these donuts are sure to make tails wag.

Ingredients

1 cup whole wheat flour (or oat flour for a gluten-free option)
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ cup pure pumpkin puree (ensure it’s 100% pumpkin with no added sugar or spices)
¼ cup unsweetened peanut butter (make sure it’s xylitol-free, as xylitol is toxic to dogs)
1 egg (for binding and extra protein)
2 tablespoons melted coconut oil (for moisture)
1 tablespoon honey (optional, for a touch of natural sweetness)