Dog-Friendly Pancakes: You & Me Dog Valentine's Brunch

Written by

Serena Faber-Nelson Updated 7 February 2012 · 4 Min Read

Pet lifestyle expert Serena Faber-Nelson is the founder of Pretty Fluffy. A contributor to Everyday with Rachael Ray, Modern Dog Magazine, Cesars Way and more; her modern, stylized take on DIY dog treats has seen her recipes viewed millions of times over. Serena is the author of the go-to dog mom bible, Dog Mama, and the popular dog treat recipe book, Healthy Homemade Dog Treats.

Sunday brunch just isn't the same without a big stack of fluffy pancakes. But it is so hard to ignore those puppy eyes staring at your plate. We know the feeling! Rather than sharing your sugary breakfast, you can whip up a special batch of dog friendly pancakes. These recipes are healthy, safe, and totally delicious. Your furry best friend deserves a seat at the table too! Ready to get cooking?

How To Make the Perfect Dog Friendly Pancakes

You might be surprised, but making these treats is actually super simple. Honestly? It is kind of fun too! Here is exactly how you can become your pup's favorite chef in just a few steps:

1. Mash It Up: Grab a big mixing bowl and get to work smashing those ripe bananas. You want them creamy, but do not stress about a few small lumps. Your dog won't mind at all! Crack in the eggs next. Whisk everything until it is all well combined.
2. The Batter: Now gently fold in your flour of choice. The real secret here is to avoid overmixing. You want to stop mixing as soon as it looks combined so the pancakes stay light. If it feels a bit too thick, just splash in a little water to loosen it up.
3. Get the Pan Ready: Pop your skillet on the stove over medium-low heat. You only need a tiny bit of coconut or olive oil here. Just use enough to stop the batter from sticking.
4. Cook Time: Pour small dollops of batter onto the warm pan. Keep a close eye on them! Once you spot little bubbles popping on the surface, give them a flip. This usually takes about two minutes. Let them cook for another minute or so until they turn a lovely golden brown.
5. Cooling Off: This is the hard part because you have to wait! Safety comes first, though. Hot food can easily burn a dog's mouth. Move the pancakes to a wire rack and let them cool completely.
6. Snack Time: You can serve these plain. Or maybe add a dollop of yogurt or some dog-safe peanut butter on top. Just make sure it is xylitol-free! If you have leftovers, toss them in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. They freeze great too!

The Ingredients You’ll Need

You probably have most of these staples in your kitchen right now. The best dog friendly pancakes rely on simple, whole foods. We skip the nasty added sugar entirely.

• Ripe Bananas: These add natural sweetness! You can swap this for unsweetened applesauce if needed.
• Eggs: These are essential for binding the batter. They add a healthy protein boost too.
• Flour: Whole wheat works well. Oat, brown rice, or almond flour are great gluten-free options too.
• Grated Apple: This adds a nice crunch and fiber. Important: Always remove the core and seeds first. Seeds are toxic!
• Baking Powder: Just a teaspoon makes them fluffy. Look for aluminum-free options.
• Flavor Boosters: A pinch of cinnamon or some blueberries are safe and tasty addition. Never use chocolate or raisins!

HANDY HINTS!

* Makes 10-12 small pancakes. * Use a love heart shaped stainless steel cookie cutter and be sure to grease the inside to ensure the batter doesn't stick. * If you only have plastic cookie cutters, cook the pancakes as normal and then cut out heart shapes once cooked. * Milk and butter can be substituted with other dairy free variations for dogs with allergies.

For You: Valentine's Day Pancakes Recipe

INGREDIENTS

• 2 free range eggs
• 1 & 1/4 cups milk
• 30g melted butter
• 1 & 2/3 cups plain flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Icing sugar to dust

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Place flour, baking powder and sugar into a bowl and mix. 2. Form a well and beat in the eggs, butter and milk. 3. Heat a greased pan and pour in the batter to create a round pancake. 4. Wait about 1-2 minutes for bubbles to form and pop before flipping the pancake and cooking the alternate side. 5. Dust with icing sugar, and serve with fresh strawberries, whipped cream and maple syrup.

Want more homemade healthy dog treat recipes?

Check out our eBook 52 Weeks of Treats - Simple & Healthy Dog Treat Recipes for Every Season. Now in it's 2nd edition, 52 Weeks of Treats has over 30 healthy DIY dog treat recipes - including everything from summer 'Blueberry Pupsicles' to hearty winter 'Beef Bites'. With a handy allergies guide, quick references for grain and dairy free recipes AND a whole section just for special occasions (Doggie Birthday Cake anyone?) 52 Weeks of Treats is the ultimate dog treat recipe book.

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