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Benefits, tips and recipes
Baking your own horse treats is not only fun but also brings numerous benefits for both you and your horse. Homemade horse treats give you full control over the ingredients. This way, you can choose only the best ingredients, free from unnecessary additives.
You can also adapt the treats to your horse’s preferences and needs. Whether it’s allergies, specific diets, or simply their favorite flavors – you’re the creator of the perfect taste.
Another advantage: homemade treats are a cost-effective alternative to the often expensive store-bought options. With just a few simple ingredients you’ll surely find in your kitchen, delicious snacks your horse will love are simply made - without breaking the bank!
Basic ingredients for horse treats
Certain ingredients are ideal for healthy horse treats: oats provide energy, carrots are rich in beta-carotene for eyesight and apples add natural sweetness and vitamin C. Molasses enhances flavor and supplies essential minerals.
Herbs like mint and flaxseed add extra nutrients and flavor, with flaxseed providing omega-3 fatty acids.
However, avoid chocolate and caffeine, as they are toxic, and steer clear of citrus fruits, which can cause digestive issues. Salt should be used sparingly. This way, you‘ll ensure your treats are tasty and healthy!
- Blender
- Scale or measuring cups and spoons
- Grater
- Mixing bowl
- Cookie cutters
- Baking sheet and parchment paper
Christmas horse treats with cinnamon and banana
Ingredients:
- 2 cups oats (optionally gluten-free oats or millet flakes)
- 1 cup mashed banana (approx. 2 medium bananas)
- 1/2 cup finely grated apple
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil (optional, but great for a shiny coat)
- 1-2 tablespoons water (as needed)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) with top and bottom heat.
- In a large bowl, combine the oats, mashed banana, grated apple, whole wheat flour, and cinnamon. The banana adds a light sweetness that horses love.
- Stir in the applesauce and coconut oil into a smooth mixture. If the dough is too dry, add a bit of water to get the perfect consistency.
- Roll out the dough and cut out christmas shapes or form small balls.
- Place the treats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 20 minutes, until lightly browned and firm.
- Finally, allow the treats to cool completely before keeping them in an airtight container.
Christmas horse Treats with Cinnamon and Banana
Ingredients:
- 2 cups oats (optionally gluten-free oats or millet flakes)
- 1 cup mashed banana (approx. 2 medium bananas)
- 1/2 cup finely grated apple
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil (optional, but great for a shiny coat)
- 1-2 tablespoons water (as needed)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) with top and bottom heat.
- In a large bowl, combine the oats, mashed banana, grated apple, whole wheat flour, and cinnamon. The banana adds a light sweetness that horses love.
- Stir in the applesauce and coconut oil into a smooth mixture. If the dough is too dry, add a bit of water to get the perfect consistency.
- Roll out the dough and cut out christmas shapes or form small balls.
- Place the treats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 20 minutes, until lightly browned and firm.
- Finally, allow the treats to cool completely before keeping them in an airtight container.
Size and portioning of treats – How to do it right
Smaller treats are particularly suitable for ponies or for regular feeding without your horse consuming too many calories. For specific health requirements such as obesity or diabetes, it's important to pay attention to the density of calories and nutrients. Choose the ingredients carefully and remember : less is often more.
Additionally, it’s better to give treats throughout the day rather than many at once. That’s a much gentler choice for the horse‘s stomach.
The author
The author
I am a trainee at Waldhausen and a proud horse owner. My passion for horses influences my work on a daily basis, combining my practical experience with my growing expertise from my apprenticeship in the equestrian sports industry. This allows me to create in-depth and engaging content that appeals to horse lovers and equestrians.
Rümeysa Colak
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