If you’ve ever wanted to spoil your pup with a treat that’s both healthy and delicious, you’re going to love this recipe. Packed with protein-rich bacon, wholesome almond flour, and a touch of natural applesauce, these treats are perfect for dogs of all ages.
Whether you’re baking for your own furry friend or experimenting with recipes for your dog bakery or dog treat business, this recipe is a winner. It’s quick, easy, and made with just four simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
And here’s the best part — your pup will absolutely drool over these crispy, savory snacks!
Why Homemade Dog Treats Are the Best
When you create homemade dog treat recipes, you know exactly what goes into every bite. That means no hidden preservatives, fillers, or artificial flavors — just simple, wholesome goodness.
Here are a few reasons to bake your own treats:
- Better ingredients: You’re in control of quality and freshness.
- Customizable for your pup: Adjust recipes to accommodate allergies or dietary needs.
- Cost-effective: Homemade treats often cost less than premium store-bought brands.
- Perfect for business: If you’re building a dog treat business, offering homemade, human-grade treats sets your bakery apart.
Want more tips on starting a dog bakery? Check out our guide, From Oven to Income: How to Turn Your Dog Treat Hobby into a Profitable Side Hustle.
Bacon & Apple Dog Treat Recipe
This recipe makes about a dozen treats (depending on your spoon size).
Ingredients
- 1 cup almond flour
- ½ cup cooked bacon strips, chopped into tiny pieces
- 2 tsp unsweetened applesauce
- 1 egg
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour, chopped bacon, applesauce, and egg. (use more almond flour if needed). Stir until you have a soft dough.
- Scoop about a teaspoon of dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until firm and slightly golden.
- Allow to cool completely before serving or storing.
Watch the video of Bullitt & Shelby (The Barkin Beagle’s official taste testers) trying these out for the first time… do you think they liked them ? Follow us on instagram to find out.
Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Freeze in batches for longer storage — they’ll last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Pro tip: Label your containers if you’re planning to sell these as part of your dog bakery offerings. Clear packaging with cute tags adds a professional touch and makes your treats irresistible to customers. Check out our free printable tag templates to get started.
Why These Ingredients Work
Each ingredient in this recipe brings something special to the table:
- Almond flour: Naturally gluten-free and high in protein, making it ideal for pups with wheat sensitivities.
- Bacon: Adds irresistible flavor and a protein boost. Just make sure it’s cooked and cooled before adding to the dough.
- Unsweetened applesauce: Adds a touch of natural sweetness and moisture without harmful sugars.
- Egg: Acts as a binder while adding protein and healthy fats.
Variations to Try
One of the best things about homemade dog treat recipes is their flexibility. Here are some ways to make this recipe your own:
- Swap the protein: Use shredded chicken, turkey bacon, or salmon for different flavor profiles.
- Add veggies: Finely chopped carrots or spinach can sneak in extra nutrients.
- Shape for the season: Use themed cookie cutters for holidays or special occasions. Seasonal treats are always a hit if you’re running a dog treat business.
How to Turn This Recipe into a Product for Your Dog Bakery
If you’re exploring ways to start or grow your dog bakery, this recipe can easily become a customer favorite. Here’s how to make it business-ready:
1. Perfect Your Recipe
Bake a few test batches to ensure consistency. Customers love knowing exactly what they’re getting every time.
2. Nail the Packaging
Presentation is everything. Package these bacon & apple treats in:
- Paw-print cellophane bags tied with twine
- Kraft paper boxes with custom labels
- Seasonal ribbons for holidays or events
Need ideas? Visit our Packaging Inspiration page for tips and templates.
3. Set a Profitable Price
Pricing is one of the most challenging parts of running a dog treat business. Make sure you’re covering ingredient costs, packaging, and your time while still making a profit. Our guide, How to Competitively Price Homemade Dog Treats, can help you figure it out.
4. Test at Local Markets
Farmers’ markets or pop-up events are a great way to test your product, get feedback, and build a loyal customer base.
5. Promote Online
Post behind-the-scenes baking videos on Instagram or Pinterest. People love watching treats come to life — and it drives traffic to your website.
Marketing Ideas for Your Dog Treat Business
Once you’ve nailed your recipe and packaging, the next step is getting the word out. Here are some creative ways to market your treats:
- Host a giveaway: Offer a free sampler pack in exchange for Instagram follows or newsletter signups.
- Collaborate with local groomers or vets: Leave samples and business cards to reach new customers.
- Leverage Pinterest: Use search-friendly keywords like “homemade dog treat recipes” and link back to your site.
- Share testimonials: Post happy customer photos and reviews to build trust and credibility.
For more growth tips, check out our article, How to Grow Your Dog Treat Business Online.
Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Beginners
If you’re new to baking or thinking about starting a dog bakery, this recipe is the perfect place to start. Here’s why:
- Few ingredients: Only four items, most of which you already have.
- Quick bake time: Ready in under 30 minutes.
- High demand flavor: Bacon is always a favorite with pups.
- Customizable: You can adjust the size, shape, or ingredients to fit your audience.
Common Questions About This Recipe
Q: Can I use regular flour instead of almond flour?
Yes, but note that it won’t be gluten-free, and some dogs may have sensitivities to wheat.
Q: Is bacon safe for dogs?
In moderation, yes. Make sure it’s fully cooked and free from added seasonings like onion or garlic.
Q: Can I sell these treats at markets?
Absolutely! Just make sure you follow local regulations for selling pet food. If you’re unsure, check out our Dog Treat Business Legal Checklist.
Scaling Up for Your Bakery
If you want to turn this into a signature treat for your dog bakery, consider scaling the recipe. Multiply the ingredients for larger batches and invest in:
- Commercial baking sheets
- Stand mixers for efficiency
- Airtight storage containers for bulk production
Looking for more tools and resources? Our Dog Bakery Starter Kit™ includes everything you need to launch your business, from recipe planners to branding templates.
Final Thoughts
This bacon and apple dog treat recipe is more than just a tasty snack — it’s a stepping stone for creating memorable moments with your pup and even launching or expanding your dog treat business.
Whether you’re baking for love, profit, or both, remember: the magic is in keeping it simple, wholesome, and consistent. Your dog — and future customers — will thank you!
Ready to Grow Your Dog Bakery?
If you’re inspired by this recipe and ready to take the next step in building your dog bakery business, don’t miss these helpful resources:
- Dog Bakery Starter Kit™ – Everything you need to launch your treat-making hustle.
- Pricing & Packaging Guide – Learn how to price your treats for profit.
- Legal Checklist for Dog Treat Businesses – Stay compliant and confident.
Start baking, start sharing, and start building the business of your dreams — one treat at a time.