When it comes to showing our appreciation for our equine companions, few gestures are as heartfelt as offering them a tasty treat. Whether you’re looking to control your horse’s diet and know exactly what they’re consuming, or you just want to save a few bucks on high-quality horse cookies, we know some horse treat recipes that you and your horse are going to love.
Believe it or not, it’s actually not that hard to make homemade horse treats, and it’s actually a fun and rewarding activity. Check out the recipe below to get started and try it today!
Easy Homemade Horse Treats Recipe
- 1 ¼ cup old fashioned oats
- ¾ cup blackstrap molasses
- ½ cup flour
- ½ cup ground flaxseed
- 2 tsp cornstarch
- ¼ cup water
- 24 peppermint candies
How to Make Horse Treats Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a muffin pan. We recommend using a silicone 24-count mini muffin pan for easy removal.
- Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix until well-combined.
- Fill each muffin cup ¾ of the way full with the mixture.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, checking regularly to ensure they don’t burn. The treats should be firm to the touch when done.
- Remove from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before pressing a peppermint candy into each muffin (optional).
- Allow the treats to cool completely before serving them to your horse. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Additional Tips
- Experiment with different flavors and ingredients to find your horse's favorite treat combination. Some horses prefer sweeter treats, while others may prefer something more savory.
- If you're concerned about the sugar content in molasses, you can substitute it with honey or applesauce for a healthier alternative.
- Get your kids involved in the baking process! Making horse treats is a great way to teach them about responsibility and caring for animals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best treat for a horse?
The best treat for a horse varies depending on the individual preferences of the horse. However, some popular options include carrots, apples, and commercial horse treats made with natural ingredients like oats and molasses.
What fruit treats can a horse have?
Horses can enjoy a variety of fruit treats, including apples, carrots, bananas, and watermelon. It's important to feed fruit treats in moderation and remove any seeds or pits, as they can be harmful to horses.
What happens if a horse has too many treats?
If a horse has too many treats, it can lead to health issues such as obesity, dental problems, and digestive upset. Treats should be given sparingly and as part of a balanced diet to prevent overconsumption.
Can you feed sugar cubes to horses?
While sugar cubes are not toxic to horses in small amounts, they are not the healthiest option for treats. Feeding sugar cubes regularly can contribute to weight gain, insulin resistance, and other health issues. It's best to choose natural, low-sugar treats like carrots or apples for your go-to treat. Sugar cubes however, are still okay for horses in moderation!
Conclusion
Making homemade horse treats is a rewarding way to bond with your horse and ensure that they're receiving wholesome and nutritious snacks. Whether you choose to make classic carrot and apple cookies, molasses and oat treats, or peppermint and flaxseed delights, your equine friend is sure to appreciate the thought and effort you put into their treats. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to delight your horse with these easy and delicious homemade horse treat recipes.
