Cranberry Apple Holiday Dog Treats — Easy Baking

So your dog stared at you with those “I deserve better snacks” eyes again, huh? Perfect timing—because today you’re about to bake something festive, fruity, and ridiculously adorable.

And no worries, you don’t need to be a pro baker or have a spotless kitchen. If you can stir, mash, and avoid letting your dog eat the ingredients before they hit the bowl, you’re all set.

Let’s make some Cranberry Apple Holiday Dog Treats your pup will go wild for.

What Makes This Recipe Paw-some

Cranberry Apple Holiday Dog Treats aren’t just cute—they’re packed with flavor your dog will happily do sit, stay, roll over, and maybe even pay your taxes for.

Cranberries? Great for urinary health.

Apples? Loaded with vitamins.

Oats? Gentle on sensitive tummies.

And the big win? You only need simple, everyday ingredients. No fancy equipment, no weird powders, no “two-day fermentation”—just wholesome, dog-friendly goodness.

Plus, these treats are budget-friendly, picky-eater-approved, and holiday-vibe certified. Your dog will think you’re a gourmet chef… even if you burn toast, spill flour everywhere, and Google “how to preheat an oven” every time (no judgment, lol).

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 cup rolled oats (blend slightly if you want a finer texture; your dog won’t judge your technique)
• ½ cup unsweetened applesauce (skip the versions with added sugar—your dog doesn’t need a sugar high)
• ¼ cup finely chopped cranberries (fresh or frozen; avoid sweetened dried ones because, again, sugar rush)
• 1 egg (helps bind everything so treats don’t crumble like your dog’s heart when you say “be right back”)
• ½ cup oat flour (or grind your own—easy, cheap, and oddly satisfying)
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional but adds richness your pup will feel proud about)
• 1–2 tablespoons water if your dough feels dry

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
Your dog will probably start circling the kitchen now. Don’t crack under the pressure.

2. Prepare your baking tray

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
This prevents sticking and keeps cleanup easy—because who wants to scrub a pan after baking for a dog?

3. Chop the cranberries

Chop the cranberries into tiny pieces.
The smaller they are, the better they distribute. Also, it prevents your dog from picking them out like a toddler avoiding veggies.

4. Mix dry ingredients

In a large bowl, combine rolled oats and oat flour.
Give it a quick stir. Your dog might sniff the bowl as if they’re helping. They’re not.

5. Add the wet ingredients

Add applesauce, chopped cranberries, egg, and coconut oil.
Stir everything until the mixture looks like a thick dough. Add water slowly if needed.

6. Knead the dough gently

Use your hands to bring the dough together.
If it sticks to your fingers, dust with more oat flour. If it crumbles, add a splash of water. You’re basically a dog treat scientist now.

7. Roll out the dough

Roll the dough to about ¼-inch thickness.
Use holiday-themed cookie cutters—bone, paw, star, or little trees. Your dog won’t care about the shape, but you will.

8. Cut and arrange

Cut out as many shapes as you can.
Place them on the baking sheet. You may be tempted to make giant treats, but moderation, my friend.

9. Bake the treats

Bake for 18–22 minutes or until the edges turn golden.
Your house will smell festive and your dog will stare into the oven like it’s live TV.

10. Cool completely

Let the treats cool on a wire rack.
This is the hardest part—for your dog. Expect dramatic sighing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using sweetened dried cranberries. They usually have added sugar—not ideal unless you want your dog bouncing off the walls like a toddler after birthday cake.
• Adding spices like nutmeg. Some holiday spices are unsafe for dogs. Keep it simple.
• Swapping applesauce for apple pie filling. Unless your dog requested dessert night, skip it.
• Overbaking. Hard treats are fine, but bricks? Not so much.
• Using wheat flour if your dog is sensitive. Oat flour keeps it gentle on the tummy.

Alternatives & Substitutions

Want to switch things up? Go for it.

• Swap applesauce for mashed banana. If your dog loves bananas, this is an instant upgrade.
• Use blueberries instead of cranberries. Still festive, still healthy.
• Replace oat flour with rice flour. Great for gluten-sensitive pups.
• Add shredded sweet potato. It gives softness and a mild sweetness dogs adore.
• Use turkey broth instead of water. Adds savory depth. If your dog acts bougie, go ahead and use salmon broth.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Can I store these treats for later?

Absolutely. Store them in an airtight jar for up to a week. If your dog opens the jar on their own… well, I’d be impressed.

Can I freeze these treats?

Yes! Freeze them for up to 2–3 months. Just thaw before serving unless your dog prefers ice-cold snacks.

Are cranberries safe for all dogs?

Generally yes, but always feed in moderation. If your dog has a sensitive stomach, start with small amounts.

Can I make these treats softer?

Sure! Bake for less time to keep them softer. Perfect for puppies or senior dogs missing a tooth or two.

Can I skip the egg?

Yep. Replace it with an extra tablespoon of applesauce or a chia “egg.” Your dog won’t know the difference.

Can I double the recipe?

Definitely. Just be prepared—your dog will expect a treat empire after that.

Are these treats good for training?

They work! Just cut them into tiny pieces. Dogs respond well to anything that tastes like effort.

Final Thoughts

Congrats—you just baked Cranberry Apple Holiday Dog Treats your pup will worship you for. Expect tail wags, excited zoomies, and serious admiration every time you open the treat jar.

And FYI, now that you’ve proven you can make festive snacks, your dog will expect this level of greatness forever. But hey, that’s the price of being the favorite human in the house. Enjoy the holidays—and the adorable begging that comes with them!