Cricket Protein Dog Treats

If you’re looking for something a little different for your pup, these Cricket Protein Dog Treats are a fantastic option. They’re crunchy, simple to make, and packed with a unique protein source that many dogs tolerate well. The dough rolls out just like cookie dough, so you can cut it into fun shapes and bake up a batch of wholesome homemade treats.

They’re perfect for dogs with sensitivities to common animal proteins and are a great way to introduce something new into your dog’s treat routine.

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Why You Will Love This Recipe

There’s something so satisfying about baking a batch of treats and seeing your dog get excited when they realize they’re getting something homemade. The happy crunch when they take the first bite makes it all worthwhile. There are so many reasons this recipe will be a favorite.

Easy to Make – If you’ve ever made rolled cookies, you already know how to make these treats. Mix the dough, roll it out, cut shapes, and bake.

Wholesome Ingredients – These treats use only a handful of simple ingredients with no artificial additives or mystery fillers.

Simple to Customize – You can easily adjust the ingredients to fit your dog’s taste preferences or dietary needs using different fruits or flour options.

Perfect for Dogs on Special Diets – Cricket powder provides insect protein, which can be a great alternative for dogs that cannot tolerate common meat or egg proteins.

Ingredients and What They Bring to the Treats

Each ingredient helps create a dough that’s easy to work with and bakes into crunchy, flavorful treats. This is what you’ll need

• Cricket protein powder – A highly nutritious novel protein source that provides essential nutrients.
• Oat flour – Forms the base of the dough and is gentle on digestion for most dogs.
• Unsweetened applesauce – Adds moisture and a touch of natural sweetness while helping bind the dough.
• Melted coconut oil – Adds moisture and healthy fats that support skin and coat health.
• Water – Helps bring the dough together so it rolls out easily.

You can find cricket protein powder on Amazon or in some health food stores.

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

There are several easy swaps and adjustments you can make depending on what you have available.

• You can substitute applesauce with mashed banana, plain pumpkin puree, or mashed sweet potato.
• You can make oat flour by blending old-fashioned rolled oats in a blender or food processor until it reaches a flour consistency. One cup of oats makes about 3/4 cup of flour.
• You can substitute oat flour with brown rice flour and make it by blending uncooked brown rice.
• You can also substitute oat flour with all-purpose flour or a 50-50 combination of all-purpose and whole wheat flour. Because whole wheat flour is denser, it’s not a good substitute to use by itself.
• Note: Flour substitutes may affect the dough. Start with less and add as needed.

Equipment Needed

You likely already have the kitchen items needed for making these treats. A mixing bowl, rolling pin, and baking sheet are the basics.

You can use any cookie cutter you like, but paw-shaped cookie cutters make them extra cute.

How to Make Cricket Protein Dog Treats

These treats come together quickly and are very similar to making homemade cookies. Here’s what to do:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cricket protein powder and oat flour.
3. Add the applesauce, water, and melted coconut oil. Stir until a dough forms.
4. Place the dough on parchment paper and roll it out to about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.
5. Use a cookie cutter to cut out shapes. Re-roll the scraps and continue cutting until all the dough is used.
6. Place the cutouts on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes.
8. Allow the treats to cool completely on the baking sheet before serving.

How to Store the Treats and How Long They Last

Store the treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Can people eat these treats?

Yes, they sure can! All the ingredients are safe for human consumption. Give one a try and see if you like it.

Tip: Many people add cricket powder to smoothies and soups for a protein boost. You can also substitute about 25% of the flour in baked goods with cricket powder.

More Recipes for Dog Treats

Do you want to make some other treats to spoil your dog with? Try these recipes:

• High Fiber Dog Treats
• Grain-Free Dog Treats
• Low Fat Dog Treats
• Sensitive Stomach Dog Treats
• Vegan Peanut Butter Dog Treats

Find lots of easy special diet dog treat recipes right here on Spoiled Hounds!

Serving Amount

Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories. Consult your vet if you are unsure of the portion size for your dog.

If your dog hasn’t had any of these ingredients before, start with a small piece to make sure they don’t have any allergies, sensitivities, or adverse reactions.