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Hey there, dog lovers! If you’re anything like me, you want your furry friend to have the best—be it belly rubs, long walks, or tasty, wholesome treats. Today, I’m sharing a special recipe for Beef & Apple Balls, and believe me, these aren’t your ordinary dog biscuits. With a mix of savory beef and sweet apple, these treats are everything your pup deserves. They’re easy to whip up, nutritious, and an absolute crowd-pleaser for your four-legged companion.
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Why You’ll Love These Beef & Apple Balls
A Healthy, Delicious Option
These Beef & Apple Balls are made with simple, wholesome ingredients that provide a nutritious snack without any artificial additives. You can feel good about feeding these to your dog!
Packed with Flavor
The combination of ground beef and fresh apple makes these treats aromatic and tasty—just wait till you see your dog’s tail wagging in excitement! The rolled oats and whole wheat flour add texture, while the egg helps bind it all together. Imagine the joy in your pup’s eyes when they get a taste of this savory and subtly sweet treat.
Versatile & Easy to Prepare
I promised you versatile, and here’s proof! These Beef & Apple Balls come together with minimal ingredients and just a bit of mixing and baking. Plus, you can customize them to fit your dog’s dietary needs, so they’re perfect for picky eaters or pups with sensitivities.
Benefits of Beef & Apple Balls for Dogs
- Protein-Packed: Thanks to the cooked ground beef, your dog will get a solid dose of protein to help keep them strong and active.
- Nutrient-Rich Apples: Apples provide fiber and vitamins A and C, promoting good digestion and a healthy immune system.
- Whole Grains for Energy: Rolled oats and whole wheat flour offer healthy carbs for an energy boost, perfect for dogs that love to run and play.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup cooked ground beef: Protein-rich and super tasty for your pup.
- 1/2 cup finely chopped apple (core removed): Make sure the apple is coreless, as seeds can be harmful to dogs.
- 1 cup rolled oats: Adds great texture and fiber.
- 1/4 cup whole wheat flour: Helps bind everything together.
- 1 egg: Acts as a natural binder, keeping those balls firm and easy to handle.
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing Bowl
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
- Measuring Cups
- Spoon or Cookie Scoop
Ingredient Additions & Substitutions
Want to customize these treats a bit more?
- Substitute Beef: If your dog doesn’t eat beef, ground chicken or turkey can be used as an alternative. Check out our Chicken & Broccoli Balls for Dogs for more inspiration!
- Add a Boost: Sprinkle in a little turmeric for anti-inflammatory benefits or parsley for fresh breath.
- Grain-Free Option: Swap out the whole wheat flour for almond flour if your dog is sensitive to grains.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef and finely chopped apple. Add in the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, and the beaten egg. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Form the Balls: Use your hands or a small scoop to roll the mixture into bite-sized balls, about 1-inch in diameter. Place each ball on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake: Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the balls are firm and slightly browned. The smell when these are baking is incredible—your pup will be waiting by the oven!
- Cool Completely: Let the beef & apple balls cool completely on a wire rack before serving. Safety first—make sure they are cool enough for those curious noses!
What to Serve with the Beef & Apple Balls
These treats are great on their own as a reward or snack, but you can also crumble them over your dog’s regular meal for added flavor and texture. They make an excellent high-value training treat, especially if your pup needs extra motivation during obedience practice!
Tips for Making the Perfect Beef & Apple Balls
- Choose the Right Apple: Go for a sweeter variety like Fuji or Gala—your dog will appreciate the extra sweetness.
- Don’t Overbake: The balls should be firm but not too hard. Overbaking can make them difficult for older dogs to chew.
- Storage: Store these treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze them for up to 3 months for longer storage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use a different type of flour?
Absolutely! If your dog is gluten-sensitive, you can use coconut flour or almond flour as a substitute. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.
2. How long will these treats last?
Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, these treats should last up to 5 days. If you freeze them, they can last for 3 months.
3. Can I add other fruits or vegetables?
Definitely! Carrots or blueberries would make great additions. Just ensure anything you add is dog-safe. You can also try making Strawberry and Banana Oat Balls if your pup enjoys fruity flavors.
Wrapping It Up: Why Your Pup Deserves These Treats
These Beef & Apple Balls are more than just a treat—they’re a way to show your dog how much they mean to you. Wholesome, easy to make, and absolutely delicious, they’ll quickly become a favorite for both you and your furry friend. The best part is, they’re made with love and the kind of ingredients that are good for your pup. Why not make a batch today?
If you loved making these Beef & Apple Balls, be sure to check out some of our other recipes like Pumpkin Pupsicles for Dogs or Banana Balls for Dogs. They’re both favorites in our household!
Share the Love!
Did you try making these Beef & Apple Balls? I’d love to see your adorable pup enjoying them! Share your photos on Pinterest and tag us—nothing makes me happier than seeing those happy tails wagging! Find us at https://www.pinterest.com/EMMARECIPES18/.
Nutritional Information (Approx. Per Treat)
- Calories: 45
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
Here’s to healthy, happy dogs and the joy of making treats that you know are crafted with love! 🍖🍏🐾
PrintBeef & Apple Balls for Dogs
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: About 20 balls 1x
Description
Beef & Apple Balls for Dogs are a delicious homemade treat made with wholesome ingredients like ground beef, apples, oats, and a touch of whole wheat flour. These easy-to-make snacks are packed with nutrition and are perfect for rewarding your furry friend. Plus, they can be tailored to suit your pup’s specific dietary needs!
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked ground beef
- 1/2 cup finely chopped apple (core removed)
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 egg (beaten)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef and finely chopped apple. Add rolled oats, whole wheat flour, and the beaten egg. Mix until well combined.
- Roll the mixture into small, 1-inch balls and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the balls are firm and slightly browned.
- Allow the balls to cool completely before serving them to your dog.
Notes
- Store these treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Feel free to substitute the beef with ground chicken or turkey if preferred.
- Choose sweeter apple varieties like Fuji or Gala for an extra touch of sweetness that your dog will love.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Dog Treats
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Dog-friendly
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 45
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg