Description
This Homemade Cheesecake for Dogs is a delicious and healthy treat made with dog-safe ingredients like plain Greek yogurt, unsweetened applesauce, oats, and eggs. It provides a creamy, sweet indulgence that is gentle on your pup’s tummy, free from added sugars and artificial preservatives. Perfect for bonding and spoiling your furry friend with a safe, nutritious dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust Ingredients
- ½ cup ground oats or rice flour
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana
Filling Ingredients
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt or cottage cheese
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana
- 1 egg or 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water (egg substitute)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (food-grade, optional)
Optional Toppings
- Fresh fruit slices (blueberries, strawberries, or apple slices)
- A drizzle of natural honey (use sparingly)
- Dog-safe peanut butter (unsweetened and xylitol-free)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Grind oats or rice flour into a fine powder using a food processor or blender. Mix ½ cup of ground oats with 2 tablespoons of unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your silicone cheesecake mold to form an even crust layer. Optional: For extra firmness, bake the crust at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, or skip baking to keep it no-bake.
- Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt or cottage cheese, ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana, 1 egg (or flaxseed substitute), and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract if using. Use a hand mixer or whisk to blend until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Cheesecake: Pour the filling over the prepared crust in the silicone mold. Use a spatula to spread the filling evenly and remove any air bubbles. If desired, add fresh fruit slices on top for decoration and extra flavor.
- Chill or Bake: For the recommended method, cover the mold with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set and firm. Alternatively, for a firmer texture, preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C), place the mold on a baking sheet filled with water (water bath), and bake for 20-25 minutes. Allow to cool completely before refrigerating.
- Serve: Once the cheesecake has set, carefully remove it from the mold. Slice into small, manageable pieces suitable for your dog’s size. Add any optional toppings just before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for best flavor and texture.
- Never use artificial sweeteners like xylitol, as they are toxic to dogs.
- Adjust sweetness gently based on your dog’s taste and tolerance.
- Serve small portions as an occasional treat to avoid overfeeding.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for extended storage.
- Always supervise your dog while enjoying treats, especially when introducing new ingredients to avoid allergic reactions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes (optional crust bake and cheesecake bake)
- Category: Dessert, Dog Treat
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Pet Food, Dog-Friendly
Keywords: dog cheesecake, homemade dog treat, healthy dog dessert, dog-friendly cheesecake recipe, dog dessert, canine treats, natural dog treats
