Instructions

1. Preheat and prepare the pan: Heat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Line an 8x8-inch or 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy lifting. Lightly spray or grease the parchment to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the wet ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup natural peanut butter, 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce (or 1/2 cup mashed banana), and 1 large egg until smooth and creamy.
3. Combine the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, stir 1 cup whole wheat flour, 1 cup rolled oats, and 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional). Break up any clumps.
4. Bring the dough together: Add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir with a sturdy spoon until a thick dough forms. If it’s crumbly, add 1–3 tablespoons of water, a little at a time, until it holds together like soft cookie dough.
5. Press into the pan: Transfer the dough to the prepared pan. Use damp hands or the back of a spatula to press it into an even layer, reaching all corners. Aim for a uniform thickness so the treats bake evenly.
6. Score for easy slicing (optional): Use a butter knife to lightly score the surface into small squares—about 1-inch for regular treats or 1/2-inch for training bites. This helps guide your cuts after baking.
7. Bake: Place the pan on the center rack and bake for 22–28 minutes, depending on thickness and pan size, until the top looks set and the edges turn lightly golden. For crisper treats, add 3–5 extra minutes.
8. Cool completely: Lift the slab out by the parchment and set it on a wire rack. Let it cool fully; this helps the treats firm up and cut cleanly.
9. Slice into squares: Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut along your score lines. For extra-crunchy treats, return the sliced squares to a low oven (250°F/120°C) for 15–20 minutes to dry further.
10. Serve and store: Offer a small piece to your dog to test. Store the rest following the directions below.