Ernie's Treats: Apple, Cheddar and Bacon Bits Dog Treats

This is the second of three posts in the Ernie's Treats category (we miss you, big dog!).  See the last post for more information.

This batch of homemade dog treats seemed to be the clear favorite among our pups - and why wouldn't it be?  Grated apples and cheddar cheese are great enough, but toss bacon bits in there?  You've got some happy hounds.  They're a little sweet, a little savory, with lots of texture and a great crunch.  Well, this is what I think Daisy told me as she devoured hers.  Either way, you should probably go bake up a batch of these for a dog that you love.

Recipe:

apple, cheddar and bacon bits dog treats
from The Cottage Market

Ingredients:
3 cups flour (all-purpose or whole whoa, or a mixture)
1 large egg
2 tablespoons softened butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
8 ounces grated cheddar
1 large apple, peeled and grated
2 tablespoons dried parsley
3 tablespoons bacon bits
1 cup milk

Instructions:

1) Place the egg, butter and olive oil into a mixer bowl and whip together.  Add the milk and mix.

2) Slowly add the flours, then add the grated apple, cheese, parsley, and bacon bits.  The dough should be smooth and pliable.  If it is too dry, add a little water or milk; if it is too sticky, add a bit more flour.

3) Preheat oven to 375 degrees.  Sprinkle some flour on the counter so the dough doesn't stick; roll out half of the dough to 1/4 inch thick.  If you'd like, sprinkle a little bit more cheese, bacon bits and parsley on top and give it a few rolls so everything sticks.  Cut out your shapes.

4) Spray a baking sheet with cooking spray.  Put treats on the tray and bake for 20 - 30 minutes or until golden and browned on the bottom.  Allow to cool.  Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.  You can also freeze them for up to 6 months.