Wholesome, Warming, and Naturally Sweet Treats Your Pup Will Love. When fall flavors come to mind, there’s something especially comforting about the classic combination of apple and cinnamon.
And now your dog can enjoy that same cozy goodness in a healthy, homemade way with these No-Bake Apple Cinnamon Oat Balls. Packed with fiber, gentle sweetness, and the warm aroma of cinnamon, these treats are soft, chewy, and incredibly simple to make—no oven needed.
These oat balls are made with just a handful of pantry staples. Apples provide natural sweetness, vitamin C, and antioxidants, while oats offer fiber to support digestion and a satisfying chewy texture.
Cinnamon (in small amounts) isn’t just fragrant—it also has anti-inflammatory properties and may help regulate blood sugar levels. Together, these ingredients create a nutrient-rich snack that’s easy to digest and full of flavor.
Because these treats are no-bake, they’re ideal for quick prep days, summertime treat-making, or involving the kids in the kitchen.
They store beautifully in the fridge or freezer and make an excellent everyday snack, post-walk reward, or training incentive. Whether your dog is young, old, picky, or eats everything in sight, these apple cinnamon balls are sure to be a tail-wagging hit.
What You’ll Need
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce (or finely grated apple)
- ½ cup natural peanut butter (xylitol-free)
- 1 ½ cups rolled oats (whole or quick)
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1–2 tablespoons water (optional, to adjust consistency)
- Optional: unsweetened shredded coconut or crushed oats for rolling
Pro Tips
- Use unsweetened, plain applesauce. Avoid flavored or sweetened versions that may contain added sugar or artificial sweeteners.
- Check your cinnamon. Ceylon cinnamon is best for dogs in small amounts, as it’s gentler than the more common Cassia variety.
- Use xylitol-free peanut butter. Always double-check the label—xylitol is highly toxic to dogs.
- Grate fresh apple if you don’t have applesauce. It adds great texture and flavor—just squeeze out excess moisture before mixing.
- Chill the dough if sticky. A short rest in the fridge makes the dough easier to shape.
Tools Required
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Grater (if using fresh apple)
- Airtight container for storage
Substitutions and Variations
- Nut-free: Swap peanut butter for pumpkin puree, sunflower seed butter, or plain mashed banana.
- Grain-free: Use coconut flour or almond flour instead of oats. Start with a small amount, as these absorb moisture more quickly.
- Add-ins: Mix in a pinch of ground flaxseed, turmeric, or chopped parsley for added benefits.
- Texture twist: Roll the finished balls in crushed oats, coconut, or ground dog biscuits for a crunchy coating.
- Training treat option: Make mini balls for low-calorie training rewards.
Make Ahead Tips
These oat balls are perfect for batch prep. Once made, they can be stored in the fridge for daily use or frozen for later.
They keep their texture well and thaw quickly, so you can always have a healthy snack ready to go—no baking, blending, or fuss required.
Instructions
1. Combine the wet ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, stir together the applesauce and peanut butter until smooth and well blended.
2. Add oats and cinnamon
Add in the rolled oats and ground cinnamon. Mix thoroughly until a thick dough forms. If needed, add a bit of water to help it come together.
3. Chill if needed
If the dough is sticky or hard to handle, place the bowl in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes to firm up before rolling.
4. Shape into balls
Scoop small portions of the dough and roll into 1-inch balls using your hands. Roll in extra oats or shredded coconut if desired.
5. Store and serve
Place the treats in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to one week or freeze for up to 3 months.
Leftovers and Storage
These treats can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 7 days. For longer storage, freeze in a single layer and then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months and thaw quickly at room temperature.
Because these are soft treats, they’re perfect for puppies, seniors, or dogs with dental sensitivities. Serve straight from the fridge for a cool snack, or slightly frozen for a longer-lasting chew.
Conclusion
These No-Bake Apple Cinnamon Oat Balls are everything a dog treat should be—easy, nourishing, and made with love. With just a few wholesome ingredients and no baking required, they’re a perfect choice for dog parents who want to keep things simple and healthy without sacrificing flavor.
Whether you’re treating your dog after a walk, offering a reward during training, or just enjoying a quiet moment together, these chewy bites are a sweet, cinnamon-scented way to say “I love you.” They’re safe, homemade, and easy to customize to suit your pup’s needs.
Have you made these for your dog yet? Share your favorite add-ins, tips, or how your pup responded in the comments below. Let’s keep homemade dog treats fun, nutritious, and full of tail-wagging joy.
