If your pup is anything like my Benji, then you know the kitchen is never just yours. Whether I’m cooking dinner or baking a batch of dog treats, he’s right there—usually parked directly in front of the stove—supervising with his big eyes and wagging tail. And let’s be honest, half the time he looks at me like, “Are you done yet, Mom?”
Between working full-time, running a household, writing for Joan of Bark, and launching another business venture, I don’t exactly have hours to spend baking elaborate treats. As much as I love spoiling Benji, I’m not about to roll out dough, cut it into little shapes, and shuffle three sheet pans in and out of the oven. That’s just not realistic for my life right now.
So instead, I came up with something simple, healthy, and time saving: Banana Pumpkin Squares.
No fancy equipment. No endless waiting. Just a mixing bowl, a spoon, and one baking pan. Easy enough for even the busiest dog mom (or dad) to whip up!
Why These Squares Are a Hit
The beauty of these treats is that they’re packed with wholesome, dog-friendly ingredients that also happen to be tasty for humans. (Yes, I eat them too—because why not?)
Here’s what makes them so great:
- Pumpkin – Full of fiber and gentle on digestion, pumpkin is a staple in Benji’s treat stash. It also provides vitamins A, C, and E to support his immune system.
- Bananas – Naturally sweet, bananas bring potassium and vitamin B6 to the mix, which support muscle and nerve health.
- Rolled oats – A healthy grain that helps keep pups feeling satisfied without unnecessary fillers.
- Molasses – My secret ingredient. Rich in iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and vitamin B6, molasses supports bone strength, energy, and overall vitality. The key is moderation—too much molasses means too much sugar, which dogs definitely don’t need. But in small amounts, it’s a nutritious little boost.
I also love the texture of these squares. They’re soft enough for older dogs to enjoy, but firm enough that they don’t crumble into a million pieces. Plus, making them in one big pan means no more tripping over Benji while juggling cookie sheets. Win-win.
Banana Pumpkin Squares Recipe
Here’s the recipe that’s been on repeat in my house lately:
Ingredients
- 2 cups bananas (mashed and pureed)
- 2 cups pumpkin (fresh or canned—not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 ½ cups oat flour
- 1 ½ cups brown rice flour
- 1 cup rolled oats (old-fashioned, not instant)
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 eggs
- ¼ cup safflower oil
- ½ cup molasses (blackstrap or regular)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Lightly grease a 9”x9” square baking pan.
- Mash and puree the bananas and pumpkin.
- Combine all ingredients in a large bowl until thoroughly mixed.
- Pour the mixture into the pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges pull slightly away from the pan.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely on a wire rack.
- Once cooled, cut into squares.
Storage
Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze for up to 2 months. (Pro tip: freeze in individual portions for grab-and-go treats.)
A Final Note from Benji
Every time I bake these, Benji sits by the oven like he knows exactly what’s coming. And the second they’re cooled and cut, he’s first in line for a taste test.
These Banana Pumpkin Squares have become one of my go-to recipes because they’re easy, healthy, and absolutely pup-approved. If your furry friend loves pumpkin and bananas as much as mine does, I bet they’ll be begging for seconds, too.
So next time you want to make something special but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, give these a try. Your dog will thank you—and you might just find yourself sneaking a square for yourself, too!
Stay in the loop with our latest pet care tips and insights! Join our community of pet lovers and get a free gift — Benji’s Favorite Bites recipe PDF when you sign up!
