These easy peanut butter bacon pupcakes are so good that my dog practically asks for them by name. Okay maybe not out loud but he definitely knows when they’re in the fridge. On those days, he just happens to hang around the kitchen a lot more than usual.
When I baked a batch for this recipe, I shared a few with our neighbors’ dogs. Let’s just say Benji, my Lab, was not impressed. I caught him giving me a very serious look as I walked out the door with his treats.
Sharing has never been his strong suit.
Don’t worry, Benji another batch will be coming your way soon. Until then, maybe a few homemade apple dog treats will help soften the blow.
Are Peanut Butter Pupcakes Good for Dogs?
In moderation, yes these pupcakes can be a perfectly safe and enjoyable treat.
I’m very selective about what Benji eats, and I only make these pup cakes a few times a year. They’re not an everyday snack, mainly because they contain all-purpose flour, which doesn’t offer much nutritional value for dogs.
Some dog parents are comfortable using white or whole wheat flour regularly. I personally prefer to limit flour in Benji’s diet, regardless of the type. That said, a small amount used occasionally like in these pupcakes is something I’m comfortable with.
Compared to many store-bought treats (unless you’re buying premium single-ingredient meat treats), these homemade pupcakes are a much cleaner option. Every ingredient aside from the flour is dog-friendly, and each pupcake contains roughly 1⅓ oz of flour.
A batch lasts Benjiu about six days, and I’m perfectly happy with that balance. As always, moderation is key.
Peanut Butter Bacon Pupcake Ingredients
Before you start baking, it helps to prep a few things ahead of time:
- Cook, cool, and finely chop the bacon
- Bring the cream cheese to room temperature
I usually do this earlier in the day so everything is ready when it’s time to bake.
For the Pupcakes:
- Coconut Oil – Ideal for greasing the muffin tin (any oil works)
- All-Purpose Flour – Organic if possible; whole wheat also works
- Unsweetened Applesauce – Make sure it contains no added sugar
- Natural Peanut Butter – Peanuts (or peanuts + salt) only; no xylitol
- Olive Oil – Extra virgin preferred, but any oil works
- Honey – Use good-quality honey
- Baking Soda – Helps the pupcakes rise
- Baking Powder – Works alongside baking soda for proper texture
Frosting Ingredients:
- Banana – Organic bananas provide the best flavor
- Cream Cheese – Plain, full-fat works best
- Natural Peanut Butter – Same xylitol-free rule applies
Topping:
- Bacon – All-natural, nitrate-free bacon is best
How to Make Peanut Butter Bacon Pupcakes
Once your bacon is cooked and your cream cheese is softened, you’re ready to bake.
1. Prepare the Batter
Mix all dry ingredients in one bowl and all wet ingredients in another. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and blend well using a fork until fully combined.
2. Bake
Divide the batter evenly into a greased 6-cup muffin tin.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, or until set.
Transfer pupcakes to a cooling rack and allow them to cool completely before frosting.
Make the Dog-Friendly Frosting
Add the banana, cream cheese, and peanut butter to a bowl. Blend with a hand mixer until smooth and creamy.
Spread frosting over cooled pupcakes and sprinkle with chopped bacon.
That’s it simple and irresistible.
⏱ Total time: About 25 minutes
👩🍳 Active time: Less than 10 minutes
How to Store Pupcakes
This recipe makes 6 pupcakes, which usually disappear quickly in a multi-dog household.
Refrigerator:
- Store in an airtight container for up to 7 days
Freezer:
- Place pupcakes on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until solid
- Transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag
- Freezing first prevents the frosting from sticking
Benji usually finishes his batch within a week, so freezing isn’t always necessary but it’s a great option if your pup enjoys treats at a slower pace.
And if you have extras? Share them with a neighbor’s dog.
Their pup will love you and your neighbor probably will too.
If you enjoy thoughtful, homemade living and intentional cooking, be sure to explore more of my from-scratch recipes and slow living inspiration. There’s plenty more goodness waiting for you and your pup. 🐾💛
Simple Peanut Butter Bacon Pupcakes for Dogs
These easy peanut butter bacon pupcakes are so good that my dog practically asks for them by name. Okay maybe not out loud but he definitely knows when they’re in the fridge. On those days, he just happens to hang around the kitchen a lot more than usual.
When I baked a batch for this recipe, I shared a few with our neighbors’ dogs. Let’s just say Benji, my labs, was not impressed. I caught him giving me a very serious look as I walked out the door with his treats.
Sharing has never been his strong suit.
Don’t worry, Benji another batch will be coming your way soon. Until then, maybe a few homemade apple dog treats will help soften the blow.
Ingredients
- For the Pupcakes:
- Coconut Oil – Ideal for greasing the muffin tin (any oil works)
- All-Purpose Flour – Organic if possible; whole wheat also works
- Unsweetened Applesauce – Make sure it contains no added sugar
- Natural Peanut Butter – Peanuts (or peanuts + salt) only; no xylitol
- Olive Oil – Extra virgin preferred, but any oil works
- Honey – Use good-quality honey
- Baking Soda – Helps the pupcakes rise
- Baking Powder – Works alongside baking soda for proper texture
- Frosting Ingredients:
- Banana – Organic bananas provide the best flavor
- Cream Cheese – Plain, full-fat works best
- Natural Peanut Butter – Same xylitol-free rule applies
- Topping:
- Bacon – All-natural, nitrate-free bacon is best
Instructions
1. Prepare the Batter
Mix all dry ingredients in one bowl and all wet ingredients in another. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and blend well using a fork until fully combined.
2. Bake
Divide the batter evenly into a greased 6-cup muffin tin .Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, or until set.
Transfer pupcakes to a cooling rack and allow them to cool completely before frosting.
Notes
- Use silicone liners: Line your muffin tin with silicone cups to make removal effortless and cleanup a breeze.
- Pick dog-safe peanut butter: Always choose peanut butter that’s completely xylitol-free to protect your pup’s health.
- Make mini pupcakes: A mini muffin tin is perfect for smaller dogs or when you want better portion control.
- Chill the frosting: Let the frosting cool slightly before spreading or piping to achieve a cleaner, neater finish.
- Store with care: Keep frosted pupcakes refrigerated for up to 3 days, or freeze unfrosted ones for longer storage. 🐾
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 6 Serving Size: 1 pup cakeAmount Per Serving: Calories: 357 kcalTotal Fat: 23gSaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 0.01gUnsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 407mgCarbohydrates: 33gFiber: 2gSugar: 12gProtein: 8g