“Even the Grinch had a dog. So if you don’t like dogs, you may need to do some soul searching.” This quote always cracks me up. The hilarious observation tells us one thing – the bond between people and their canine companions is so special that it can thaw even a Grinch’s icy heart. To honor our favorite green, grouchy creature … and his loving dog, Max … we created a Christmas Grinch Dog Biscuit Recipe. And, yes, it’s green! Crafted with a simple ingredient list (nope – we don’t use any food coloring to achieve the festive hue), these bark-worthy holiday treats are easy to make. Plus, since sharing this recipe on our Instagram page, we’ve been tagged in numerous posts from other dog parents showing off their re-creation. The verdict? Dogs love these!
Watch our short tutorial video. Then, scroll down to the bottom of this post to get the printable recipe!
The Main Ingredients
Brown Rice Flour and Oat Flour – These treats use a blend of brown rice flour and oat flour as the base. These gluten-free flours work well together to create a delicious taste and pleasant texture. I’ve had a few people ask why I typically blend two types of flour when baking gluten or grain-free dog biscuits. After a lot of trial and error, I find it creates more balance. For example, while rice flour is commonly used in baked goods (for people and dogs), it can be gritty on its own. Blending it with a touch of oat flour helps to balance that. Since each flour absorbs liquid differently and has its own unique characteristics, we don’t suggest altering the flour ratio.
Spirulina Powder – These treats get their festive green hue thanks to a sprinkling of spirulina powder! Spirulina is a type of blue-green microalgae that packs a large nutritional punch. It contains naturally occurring vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants. Find out more about the benefits of spirulina for dogs in THIS article.
100% Pure Pumpkin Puree – Pumpkin is a superfood for our canine cuties. It’s loaded with fiber, making it great for digestion and weight management. Plus, pumpkin also contains potassium and a moderate amount of protein. *This isn’t to be confused with pumpkin pie filling, which contains sugar and spices that aren’t good for dogs. When selecting the perfect canned pumpkin to give your dog, make sure it says 100% pure pumpkin … and the only ingredient listed on the ingredient label is Pumpkin.
Tools
- Measuring cups (for dry and liquid ingredients)
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutter
- Baking sheet
A Note on Measuring Flour
When measuring flour, a lot of people have the urge to take their measuring cup, stick it in the flour bag, and scoop. Does that sound familiar? While it may be the easiest way to gather a cup of flour, it won’t leave you with the most accurate measurement. Rather, scooping leaves you with too much flour. Instead, you want to use the “spoon and level” method.
- Take a spoon and fluffy up the flour so it is no longer compacted in the bag or canister.
- Spoon the flour into a dry measuring cup until it reaches the top.
- Use the back of a knife to level off the flour.
- Do not compact it, tap it, or press it down. Just leave it fluffy.
Christmas Grinch Dog Biscuit Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 350ºF. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside for later.
- Add dry ingredients to a mixing bowl and whisk together. Then make a well in the center and add wet ingredients.
- Stir with a spoon, until you're left with crumbly bits. Then, knead with your hands until you form a dough ball.
- Sandwich dough ball between two pieces of parchment paper. Use a rolling pin to roll flat, about 1/4" thick.
- Use a festive cookie cutter to stamp out treats. Then, transfer to a baking sheet.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Let cool on a wire rack.
Notes
- Measure flour using the spoon and level method. Don’t scoop or you’ll have too much flour.
- Store these treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or in the freezer for 3 months.
