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Dogs deserve cake. Whether they’ve learned a new trick or look adorable doing nothing, it’s reason enough to bust out the peanut butter and bake.
Table of Contents
These treats are made for wagging tails, and they’re way easier than you’d expect.
Can Dogs Eat Cake? (And What Kind Should They?)
Dogs can’t have regular cake, but they can have cake made just for them.
Most human recipes are loaded with sugar, dairy, or chocolate, which can upset a dog’s stomach or worse. But when you stick to pup-safe ingredients, cake becomes a fun and easy treat.
Quick Takeaway: Safe vs Unsafe Dog Cake Ingredients
Safe for dogs (in moderation):
- Unsweetened applesauce
- Mashed banana
- Eggs
- Oat flour, whole wheat flour, or coconut flour
- Peanut butter (xylitol-free only)
- Plain Greek yogurt
- Pumpkin purée
Avoid these completely:
- Chocolate
- Xylitol (common in peanut butter and sugar-free products)
- Raisins or grapes
- Macadamia nuts
- Artificial sweeteners
- Added sugar
- Frosting made with sugar, cream cheese, or butter
If you’re following a recipe designed for dogs, you’re in the right place. Just don’t substitute random pantry ingredients unless you’re sure they’re dog-safe.
Check out our guides covering safe and toxic human foods if you need help determining what’s acceptable for your pup’s diet.
Should Your Dog Be Eating Cake?
Some dogs will eat anything. Paper towels. Couch stuffing. The top half of a burrito when you blink.
But just because your dog can eat something doesn’t mean they should, even if it’s homemade cake.
Before you grab the mixing bowl, ask yourself a few quick questions:
- Does your dog have a sensitive stomach or food allergies?
- Is your vet concerned about weight or health issues?
- Does your dog already get a lot of treats or table scraps?
Dog cakes are still treats. They’re meant to be fun, occasional rewards, not everyday snacks or meal replacements.
If your pup is on a special diet, check with your vet before baking anything fancy.
Everyday Reasons To Bake For Your Dog
You don’t need a party hat or a guest list to spoil your pup. Sometimes, you want to bake a cake simply because your dog is fantastic and deserves something fun.
Homemade dog cakes aren’t just for birthdays. They’re perfect for everyday wins and seasonal celebrations—from Valentine’s Day to Halloween, Thanksgiving, or Gotcha Day.
Whether you’re rewarding good behavior or just feeling generous, a soft-baked snack can turn any regular day into a special one.
Here are a few everyday excuses your dog will gladly accept:
- Finished their meds without spitting them out
- Mastered a new trick or training cue
- Tolerated a nail trim without drama
- Stayed quiet during your Zoom call
- Looked extra cute for no reason at all
- Got a stocking, basket, or plate at the holiday table
You don’t have to throw a party to celebrate your dog. One cupcake, a warm mug cake, or a slice of meatloaf magic is more than enough to make their day.
Which Cake Is Right For My Dog?
Not sure where to start? This cheat sheet helps you find the best recipe for your dog’s needs.
| Cake | Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Easy Peanut Butter Banana Mug Cake | Sweet (Microwave) | Quick treats |
| Strawberry Carob Mug Cake | Sweet (Microwave) | Valentine’s Day |
| Carrot Cake Pupcakes | Sweet | Veggie lovers |
| Peanut Butter & Pumpkin Dessert Cake | Sweet | Birthdays |
| Chicken & Waffle Pupcakes | Savory/Sweet | Brunch vibes, novelty |
| Fish Cakes For Dogs | Savory | Minimal effort |
| Poochie Meat Cakes | Savory | Meat lovers, special dinners |
| Ice Cube Cake | Interactive (No-Bake) | Enrichment |
| Frozen Pupcakes | Sweet (No-Bake) | Hot weather |
Quick & Easy Cakes
Short on time? These recipes are fast, simple, and made with pantry staples. Perfect for weekday treats, lazy weekends, or when your dog gives you that look and you want to whip something up in under 15 minutes.
No fancy equipment, no stress—just happy tails.
Easy Peanut Butter Banana Mug Cake For Dogs
Ingredients
- 1/2 ripe banana mashed
- 1 tbsp peanut butter (xylitol-free only)
- 1 tbsp oat flour or finely ground oats
- 1 egg
- A splash of water or plain unsweetened oat milk for texture optional
Instructions
- Mash the banana in a microwave-safe mug.
- Add peanut butter, oat flour, and egg. Mix thoroughly until smooth.
- Microwave on high for 45–60 seconds, or until the center is set.
- Let cool completely before serving.
Notes
- Why dogs love it: It’s warm, soft, and smells like peanut butter pancakes
- Bonus: Add a dollop of plain yogurt, a drizzle of peanut butter, or a banana slice on top for extra flair
- Peanut butter warning: Always check that it’s xylitol-free
Strawberry Carob Mug Cake For Dogs
Ingredients
Cake
- 2 tbsp peanut butter melted
- 1/2 tbsp strawberry honey (or regular honey)
- 4 tbsp whole wheat flour
- 1 tsp carob powder (NOT cacao or chocolate)
- 4 tbsp water
- Olive oil, avocado oil, or baking spray (to coat the mug)
Frosting
- Whipped cream cheese
- 1-2 fresh strawberries
Instructions
- Prep Your Mug: Lightly spray or oil the inside of a microwave-safe mug to prevent sticking.
- Mix the Batter: In a small bowl, combine peanut butter, honey, flour, baking powder, carob powder, and water. Stir until smooth.
- Microwave: Pour the batter into the mug and microwave for 90 seconds.
- Cool & Flip: Let the mug sit for a few minutes, then carefully flip it over to release the cake. Allow it to cool completely before frosting.
- Make the Frosting: Use a garlic press to squeeze juice from a strawberry into whipped cream cheese. Stir to create a pink tint. Adjust amount based on how much frosting you want.
- Decorate: Spread the strawberry cream cheese frosting on top of the cooled mug cake. Garnish with a slice of fresh strawberry.
Video
Notes
Sweet Treats & Dessert Cakes
If your dog has a soft spot for peanut butter, banana, or pumpkin, this section is for them. These mildly sweet cakes are soft, comforting, and perfect as a post-walk reward or just-because dessert. They may look like bakery treats, but they’re made for everyday moments.
Carrot Cake Pupcakes
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin purée (not pie filling)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2 tbsp melted coconut oil
- 1/2 cup carrots grated
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
Frosting (Optional)
- 1/2 cup plain Greek or regular yogurt
- 1/4 cup peanut butter chunky or smooth (no xylitol)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a muffin tin with 12 paper liners.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin, applesauce, coconut oil, water, and egg.
- Add in the flour and baking powder, stirring until combined.
- Fold in the shredded carrots.
- Divide the batter evenly among muffin cups, filling each about ⅔ to ¾ full.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool in the pan for 5–10 minutes, then transfer pupcakes to a wire rack to finish cooling.
Make the Frosting
- In a small bowl, mix yogurt and peanut butter until smooth.
- Once pupcakes are fully cooled, spread frosting on top. Serve fresh or refrigerate.
Notes
- Why dogs love it: Lightly sweet, soft texture, and peanut butter frosting
- Health perks: High fiber and low added fat, with no added sugar
- Carrot tip: Use freshly grated carrots for moisture and better texture
- Storage tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days
Peanut Butter & Pumpkin Doggie Dessert Cake
Ingredients
- 1 cup flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/8 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup peanut butter (xylitol-free)
- 1/2 cup applesause unsweetened
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree plain, not pumpkin pie mix
- 1 egg
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350F.
- In a large bowl, combine flour and baking soda.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the vegetable oil, peanut butter, applesauce, and pumpkin puree. Once combined, add in the egg and mix again.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients and stir until combined.
- Pour the mixture in a greased 8″ round or square pan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before removing from the pan.
Notes
- Why dogs love it: Smells like fall. Tastes like “more please.”
- Tip: Double the recipe to make a layer cake!
Savory Cakes & Meaty Bakes
For pups who turn their nose up at anything that isn’t meat, these protein-packed recipes bring dinner energy to treat time. From layered meat cakes to chicken-stuffed pupcakes, these options feel indulgent but deliver on nutrition too.
Chicken & Waffle Pupcakes With Maple Frosting
Ingredients
Waffle Pupcake Base
- 1/2 cup brown rice flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/3 cup plain yogurt
- 1 egg
Maple Frosting
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1/4 cup coconut flour
- 1 tbsp pure maple syrup
Chicken Topping
- 4 oz chicken breast boneless, skinless
Instructions
Bake the Chicken
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and place chicken breast on top.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until internal temp reaches 170°F.
- Let cool, then cut into 12 small cubes for topping.
Make the Pupcakes
- Keep oven at 350°F. Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a small bowl, mix flour and baking powder. Set aside.
- In a larger bowl, mix olive oil, yogurt, maple syrup, and egg.
- Add dry ingredients to wet and stir until just combined.
- Fill each muffin liner with 1 tablespoon of batter.
- Bake for 12 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool on a wire rack.
Make the Frosting
- Mix yogurt, coconut flour, and maple syrup in a small bowl until smooth.
- Adjust thickness by adding a bit more flour or yogurt, as needed.
Assemble
- Frost each cooled pupcake with a spoon or piping bag.
- Top with one chicken cube.
- Optional: Cut a small hole in the center of the pupcake and hide the chicken inside as a surprise.
Notes
- Tip: You can boil or pan-fry the chicken instead of baking, just be sure to drain off extra oil or water
- Feeding advice: These are fun, one-off treats. Not meant to replace your dog’s regular meals
Fish Cakes For Dogs
Ingredients
- 1 cup The Honest Kitchen Bone Broth Bites Cookies (crushed or blended into crumbs) crushed or blended into crumbs
- 1 box The Honest Kitchen 99% Salmon and Pollock Meal Booster
Instructions
- Add Bone Broth Bites to a food processor or place them in a zip-top bag and smash with a rolling pin until they become fine crumbs.
- In a bowl, combine 1/2 cup of the cookie crumbs with the full box of Salmon & Pollock Meal Booster. Mix well to form a moist, scoopable mixture.
- Form the mixture into small, dog-friendly patties or cakes using your hands.
- Place patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F for about 10 minutes. Let cool before serving.
Notes
- No extra binders or eggs needed—the moisture in the fish blend and crumbs holds everything together.
- Store extra patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Poochie Meat Cakes
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup brown rice
- 3 cups water
- 2 large potatoes grated
- 4 large carrots grated
- 2 large celery stalks chopped
- 6 lb ground beef
- 8 eggs
- 1 dash salt optional
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
Instructions
- In a saucepan, bring rice and water to a boil over high heat.
- Cook uncovered for 10 minutes, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes. Let cool and fluff with a fork.
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Grease 36 muffin cups (you’ll need three standard 12-cup tins).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine grated potatoes, carrots, celery, ground beef, and eggs. Mix thoroughly using your hands or a sturdy spoon.
- Add salt, olive oil, rolled oats, and cooled rice. Stir until evenly combined.
- Scoop the meat mixture into each muffin cup, pressing down gently to pack it in.
- Bake for 45 minutes, or until the tops are set and browned.
- Let the cakes cool for at least 10 minutes. To remove, flip the muffin tin upside down over foil or a tray and tap each cup gently. Serve warm or let cool completely and store.
Notes
- Why dogs love it: Hearty, chewy texture and packed with real food
- Batch tip: Freeze extras in sealed containers or bags for future treats
- Feeding advice: These are rich, high-protein treats and should replace a meal when served
Frozen Cakes & Cool Treats
These freezer-friendly recipes are perfect for summer, teething pups, or dogs who just love a chilly surprise. No oven needed—just a bowl, a mold, and a little patience while they firm up. Serve after playtime, bath time, or anytime your dog needs to cool down.
Ice Cube Cake For Dogs
Equipment
- 1 pie pan
- 1 round bucket or plastic container
- 4 hard plastic or solid rubber dog toys
Ingredients
- 1 gal fresh water
- 1 cup bite-sized treats
Instructions
- Build the Base: Arrange treats and toys in the bottom of your bucket or container. Choose items that will sink and float to create layers of discovery.
- Add Water: Fill the container with fresh water, covering the toys and treats. Use a lid or plate to help weigh down floating items.
- Freeze: Place in the freezer for at least 6 hours, or overnight, until completely solid.
- Release the Cake: Let the container sit at room temp for 5 minutes to loosen the ice. Remove the lid and carefully flip the container into a shallow dish or pie pan.
- Serve Outside: Set the ice cake in a shaded outdoor area. Encourage your dog to sniff out the frozen surprises and enjoy!
Notes
- Great for summer birthdays or enrichment days.
- Use toys that are freezer-safe and large enough to avoid choking hazards.
- Optional: add a little low-sodium broth for extra flavor before freezing
Frozen Pupcakes
Equipment
- 1 standard muffin tin
- 1 mini muffin tin
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup peanut butter (no xylitol)
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt Greek or regular, unsweetened
- 1 ripe banana
- splash unsweetened almond milk or water
- mini dog treats optional
Instructions
- Combine peanut butter, yogurt, banana, and a splash of almond milk or water in a blender.
- Blend until smooth. Add more liquid as needed for easy blending.
- Pour the mixture into muffin tins or silicone cups.
- Freeze until solid (at least 2 hours).
- When ready to serve, let thaw slightly at room temperature for a few minutes.
- Pop out of the mold with a knife, stack, and serve!
Notes
Store-Bought Shortcuts
Not every dog cake has to start from scratch. If you’re short on time (or just not in a baking mood), boxed cake mixes made for dogs are a reliable go-to. These pre-made blends skip the sugar and artificial sweeteners you’d find in human mixes—so you can still feel good about what’s going in the bowl.
Recommended Boxed Dog Cake Mixes
- Puppy Cake Cake Mix For Dogs (Peanut Butter Flavor): This brand is a longtime favorite for dog birthday parties, and their peanut butter mix includes dog-safe frosting too. It’s easy to prepare and can be baked or microwaved depending on your pan.
- Pooch Cake Wheat-Free Pumpkin Spice Cake Mix & Frosting: Pumpkin lovers, this one’s for you. It’s made without wheat and comes with a packet of vanilla frosting to finish it off.
No Baking Required
Three Dog Bakery Ultimate Celebration Cake Bites can be served straight from the box—no oven needed. These soft, cookie-like “cake bites” are perfect for pups who want the party without the prep.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about baking cakes for your dog? Whether you’re wondering which ingredients are safe, how much your dog can eat, or how to store leftovers, we’ve got answers. Here’s everything you need to know before serving up a slice.
Don’t see your question? Ask us in the comments!
Can Dogs Eat Regular Cake Made For Humans?
Most human cakes contain sugar, artificial sweeteners, chocolate, or other ingredients that are unsafe for dogs. It’s best to stick to dog-specific recipes that use safe, simple ingredients.
What Are The Best Ingredients For A Dog Cake?
Dog-friendly cakes often use peanut butter, pumpkin, bananas, yogurt, and whole wheat flour. Always avoid chocolate, xylitol, raisins, and excessive sugar intake.
How Much Dog Cake Can My Pet Eat?
Treat dog cakes as an occasional indulgence. A small slice or pupcake is usually enough. Too much can upset your dog’s stomach or contribute to weight gain.
Can I Freeze Homemade Dog Cake?
Yes! Most dog cakes freeze well. You can freeze unfrosted cakes or fully decorated ones in airtight containers for up to 2–3 months.
What Can I Use Instead Of Flour In Dog Cakes?
Oat flour, coconut flour, and almond flour are common substitutes. Always check that your dog doesn’t have allergies to specific ingredients.
Planning A Birthday?
If you’re here for a special occasion, we’ve got that covered, too.
- Try our grain-free peanut butter apple dog birthday cake, an easy-to-bake option that gets rave reviews from pups. We also share other Birthday recipes at the link.
- Hosting a full-on pawty? Don’t miss our guides to throwing the best dog birthday party.
