There’s something so special about making your own dog treats—especially when you can use simple, healthy ingredients that you likely already have in the pantry. These Pumpkin & Apple Crunch Sticks are one of my favorite fall-inspired treats for dogs, but they’re perfect all year round. They’re crunchy, slightly sweet from the apple, and rich in fiber and vitamins thanks to the pumpkin.
These treats are excellent for dogs who enjoy a good chew. They’re baked until firm and crispy, helping naturally clean your pup’s teeth while giving them a snack they genuinely look forward to. We’ve made them countless times for our own dog, and the tail wags start as soon as the oven turns on. Kids love helping shape the dough and can easily participate in the mixing process.
Whether you’re making a batch for your dog or packaging a few for gifts, these homemade crunch sticks are wholesome, easy, and so satisfying to bake. Let’s get started.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup unsweetened pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 medium apple, peeled and grated
- 2 ½ cups whole wheat flour (or oat flour)
- 1 egg
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Water as needed (1–2 tablespoons)
Pro Tips
- Use unsweetened pumpkin puree—double check the label to avoid added sugar or spices.
- Grate the apple finely for even texture and a better crunch.
- Shape thinner for crunchier sticks or a little thicker if your pup prefers a softer chew.
- Let them cool completely before serving; they continue to firm up as they cool.
- Store in a dry container to maintain crispness—humidity can soften the texture over time.
Tools Required
- Mixing bowl
- Box grater
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet
- Oven
Substitutions and Variations
- Flour options: You can substitute oat flour or brown rice flour for a gluten-free version.
- Fruit swaps: Try pear instead of apple for a milder, softer flavor.
- Add-ins: A spoonful of flaxseed meal or a dash of turmeric can offer extra health benefits.
- No egg: Substitute with 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the dough up to one day in advance and keep it tightly wrapped in the fridge. Dough may firm up slightly, so let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before shaping. Baked sticks freeze well and can be thawed at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Grate the apple
Peel and finely grate the apple using a box grater. Set it aside.
3. Mix the dough
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the grated apple, pumpkin puree, whole wheat flour, egg, and cinnamon. Mix until a stiff dough forms. Add water one tablespoon at a time if needed.
4. Shape the sticks
Scoop out dough and roll into sticks about 4–5 inches long and ½ inch thick. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake
Bake for 35–40 minutes or until the sticks are golden and hard to the touch. Flip halfway through for even baking.
6. Cool completely
Remove from oven and let the sticks cool on a wire rack until fully firm.
Leftovers and Storage
Once cooled, store the sticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months. If frozen, let them come to room temperature before serving to your dog.
Conclusion
These Pumpkin & Apple Crunch Sticks are a perfect way to treat your dog with something nutritious, delicious, and made with love. The crispy texture is great for gentle dental cleaning, and the natural sweetness makes them a hit with even picky pups. Best of all, you know exactly what’s in them—and so does your dog, judging by the excited sniffing as they bake.
Give them a try, and let me know how they turned out! I’d love to hear what your furry friend thinks and if you tried any fun variations. Leave a comment below with your feedback or any questions!
