Homemade Horse Cookie Treats for Your Equine Friends

Celebrate Horse Day and National Cookie Day with Homemade Horse Cookie Treats for Your Equine Friends

I love to bake. Christmas, work, potlucks, I can't help it, cookies and baking relax me. So, what better way to celebrate Nation Horse Day and National Cookie Day than by creating homemade treats for my equine companions? These treats are not just delicious but cost-effective. Now you can tinker with these recipes to fit your horses dietary needs, so don't be afraid to give it a try!

 Why Homemade Horse Treats Are Fantastic

When you make treats at home, you control every ingredient. This ensures your horse receives a snack free from unnecessary additives or preservatives. Homemade treats are:

• Healthier: Use fresh, natural ingredients.
• Customizable: Adjust recipes to suit your horse’s unique dietary needs.
• Budget-Friendly: Save money compared to store-bought options.

 Horse Treat Recipe 1: Simple Apple and Carrot Oat Cookies
from mamaonthehomestead.com

These treats are a delightful mix of apples, carrots, and oats, perfect for your horse's palate.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups quick oats
• ½ cup flour
• 2 grated carrots
• 1 grated apple
• ¼ cup molasses or honey
• 1 cup applesauce
• 1 tbsp coconut or vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
2. In a large bowl, mix the oats and flour until combined.
3. Add the grated carrots, diced apple, applesauce, molasses/honey, and oil to the dry mix.
4. Stir until the mixture reaches a sticky, dough-like consistency.
5. Roll the dough into small balls or desired shapes.
6. Arrange the treats on the baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced evenly.
7. Bake for 15 minutes, or until firm.
8. Let the treats cool completely before feeding them to your horse.

Storage Tip: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Horse Cookie Recipe 2: Pumpkin Treats

Add a seasonal twist to your horse's treat selection with these pumpkin delights.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups oats
• 1/4 cup flour
• ½ cup pumpkin puree
• 2 tbsp molasses
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ cup applesauce
• 2 tbsp ground flaxseed (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine oats, pumpkin puree, and applesauce in a mixing bowl.
3. Stir in molasses, cinnamon and ground flax, mixing until uniform.
4. Shape the dough into small cookies or festive shapes.
5. Place on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, or until slightly crisp.
6. Allow treats to cool before offering them to your horse.

Pro Tip: Freeze extras in a sealed bag to keep them fresh for up to a month.

Essential Tips for Homemade Horse Treats

Making treats for your horse can be a fun and rewarding activity. However, it’s important to keep a few things in mind to ensure safety and enjoyment.

1. Check Ingredients for Safety
Not all foods safe for humans are safe for horses. Always verify ingredients, avoiding toxic items like chocolate, onions, or caffeine. Stick to horse-friendly choices such as oats, carrots, apples, and molasses.

2. Moderation Is Key
Even healthy treats should be given sparingly to prevent overfeeding or digestive upset. Treats are best used as occasional rewards.

3. Adjust for Special Dietary Needs
If your horse has dietary restrictions or health conditions, consult with a veterinarian before introducing new ingredients.

4. Store Properly
Homemade treats typically lack preservatives, so they should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze the treats and thaw portions as needed.

 Fun Ways to Present Treats on Horse Day

Make Horse Day celebrations extra special by presenting treats in unique and engaging ways.

Use Themed Cookie Cutters
Shaped treats add a fun twist. Use cutters in the shape of horseshoes, carrots, or hearts for a festive look.

Create a Treat Trail
Set up a small obstacle course or activity path where your horse can discover treats along the way. This adds an element of enrichment and fun.

Conclusion

Homemade horse treats are a wonderful way to celebrate Horse Day or any day that you want to show your equine companions some extra love. With simple, natural ingredients, you can craft snacks that are healthy, delicious, and tailored to your horse's taste. Try the recipes above and let your creativity shine by experimenting with safe add-ins or themed shapes. Your horse will thank you with happy neighs and enthusiastic chomps!

-let me know how they turned out for you! reply by email at erin@horsedaydesigns, or post a pic on my FB or Insta page. @HorseDayDesigns

FAQs

1. Can dogs eat these horse treats too?
Yes, the ingredients in these treats are generally safe for dogs, but always check for any specific sensitivities or allergies your dog might have.

2. How long do these treats last?
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, these treats can last about a week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to a month.

3. Are there sugar-free alternatives for molasses or honey?
You can use unsweetened applesauce or omit the sweetener entirely if your horse prefers less sweetness.

4. What’s the best way to introduce new treats to a horse?
Start by offering a small amount to see how your horse reacts. Gradually increase the quantity if there are no signs of digestive upset.

5. Can I freeze these treats for longer storage?
Yes, freezing is a great option to preserve freshness. Simply thaw the desired amount before feeding.