Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 medium apple, cored and chopped (seeds and stem removed) – Adds natural sweetness, fiber, and vitamin C.
- 1 cup finely grated carrots – Adds crunch, fiber, and beta-carotene.
- 1 cup plain unsweetened Greek yogurt – Adds protein, calcium, and gut-friendly probiotics.
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped – Adds a classic breath-freshening flavor.
- 1 tbsp natural peanut butter (xylitol-free) – Adds an irresistible flavor boost. Always double-check the label for xylitol before use.
Optional Add-Ins
Customize your apple carrot dental cubes with any of these dog-safe extras:
- 4–6 fresh mint leaves – Adds a refreshing flavor and potential breath-freshening benefit. Use in moderation.
- 2 tbsp pumpkin purée (100% pure pumpkin) – Supports digestive health and adds extra fiber. Use plain canned pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.
- 1 tbsp ground flaxseed – A source of omega-3 fatty acids that may support skin and coat health.
- 2 tbsp unsweetened coconut water – Adds hydration and natural electrolytes.
- ¼ cup blueberries – Adds antioxidants and a touch of natural sweetness.
Instructions
This recipe comes together with just a few minutes of hands-on prep time.
Step 1: Prepare the Apple
Core the apple and remove all seeds and the stem, then chop the flesh into small pieces.
Step 2: Blend the Base Ingredients
Add the chopped apple, Greek yogurt, parsley, and peanut butter to a blender or food processor.
Step 3: Blend Until Smooth
Blend the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy, with no chunks of apple remaining.
Step 4: Fold in the Carrots
Fold the finely grated carrots into the blended mixture by hand, which helps preserve a little natural crunch and texture in the finished cubes rather than blending them completely smooth.
Step 5: Stir in Optional Add-Ins
If you’re using any optional add-ins, such as mint leaves, pumpkin purée, flaxseed, coconut water, or blueberries, gently stir them into the mixture until evenly combined.
Step 6: Fill Your Molds
Pour or spoon the mixture into silicone cube trays, paw-print molds, or bone-shaped molds, depending on what you have on hand and the treat size you’d like.
Step 7: Remove Air Bubbles
Tap the filled molds gently on the counter a few times to release any trapped air bubbles, resulting in a smoother, more solid finished treat.
Step 8: Freeze Until Firm
Place the molds in the freezer and freeze for 4–6 hours, or until the cubes are completely firm all the way through.
Step 9: Pop and Store
Once frozen, remove the cubes from their molds and transfer them to an airtight, freezer-safe container to maintain freshness and prevent freezer burn.
Step 10: Serve as a Refreshing Reward
Serve one or two frozen cubes as a refreshing reward or snack, any time your pup deserves a little extra love and crunch.