A Naturally Sweet, Easy Treat Made With Love. Making homemade dog treats doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, some of the best snacks for your pup don’t require turning on the oven at all.
These Apple and Cranberry No-Bake Dog Treats are soft, fruity, and made with just a few wholesome ingredients—no preservatives, no baking, and no fuss.
Apples and cranberries are two fruits that dogs can safely enjoy in moderation, and together they create a flavor-packed combo that’s mildly sweet, tart, and naturally rich in vitamins and antioxidants.
Apples provide fiber, vitamin C, and a touch of natural sugar to keep things tasty without added sweeteners. Cranberries bring a punch of flavor and are known for supporting urinary tract health and immune function.
This no-bake recipe combines dried cranberries (unsweetened), applesauce, and oat flour to form a soft dough that’s easy to roll, shape, or press into molds. The treats set up in the refrigerator and stay fresh for over a week, making them a convenient snack for training, walks, or simply showing your pup some love.
If your dog is sensitive to store-bought treats or you’re looking to add healthier options into their diet, this recipe is a perfect place to start.
What You’ll Need
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
- ¼ cup unsweetened dried cranberries, finely chopped
- 1 ½ cups oat flour (or ground rolled oats)
- 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed (optional, for fiber and binding)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 1–2 tablespoons water, if needed
Pro Tips
- Use only unsweetened cranberries and applesauce—many dried cranberries are sweetened with sugar or juice, which isn’t ideal for dogs.
- Finely chop the cranberries to help them distribute evenly and prevent large chewy bits.
- Chill dough before shaping if it’s too sticky to handle easily.
- Press into silicone molds for fun shapes, or roll into bite-sized balls.
- Adjust moisture carefully—start with less water and add more if the dough is too dry.
Tools Required
- Medium mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Silicone molds or parchment paper
- Airtight container for storage
Substitutions and Variations
- Flour: Use coconut flour or whole wheat flour if oat flour isn’t available.
- Fruit: Swap cranberries for finely chopped blueberries or grated apple.
- Add-ins: Stir in a spoonful of peanut butter (xylitol-free) or plain pumpkin for extra richness.
- Flavor Boost: Add a tiny pinch of turmeric for an anti-inflammatory touch.
- Texture: Roll finished treats in crushed oats or shredded coconut for a textured coating.
Make Ahead Tips
You can double or triple this recipe and refrigerate the extra dough for up to 3 days before shaping. After forming, the treats can be stored in the fridge or freezer. Freeze in a single layer before transferring to a bag for longer storage.
Instructions
1. Mix wet ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine applesauce and chopped cranberries. Stir to evenly distribute the fruit throughout the base.
2. Add dry ingredients
Stir in oat flour, flaxseed, and cinnamon (if using). Mix until a thick dough forms. If it’s too dry, add a small amount of water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together and is easy to work with.
3. Shape the treats
Roll the dough into small balls, flatten slightly, or press into silicone molds. Place shaped treats on a parchment-lined plate or tray.
4. Chill until firm
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until the treats are firm enough to handle and store. They’ll firm up more the longer they chill.
Leftovers and Storage
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 10 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months. Let frozen treats sit out for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly.
Conclusion
These Apple and Cranberry No-Bake Dog Treats are a simple, healthy way to treat your pup to something special. With no baking, no artificial ingredients, and just a few pantry staples, you can have a batch of soft, flavorful snacks ready in minutes. They’re perfect for dogs with food sensitivities, busy owners short on time, or anyone who loves spoiling their pup with homemade goodness.
The combination of apples and cranberries offers gentle sweetness and antioxidant power, while oat flour keeps things light and digestible. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your dog’s preferences and dietary needs, making this a versatile base for all kinds of no-bake treats.
Tried this recipe? I’d love to hear how it turned out! Share your dog’s reaction, your favorite add-ins, or your experience shaping and storing the treats in the comments below. Homemade snacks are one of the best ways to bond with your dog—and keep them happy and healthy at the same time.
