4 DIY Horse Treats: Simple Recipes to Show Your Horse Some Love

Nothing says “I appreciate you” to your equine friend quite like a batch of homemade horse treats! Making your own snacks not only gives you full control over the ingredients but also ensures your horse enjoys wholesome, nutritious goodies free of additives or artificial sweeteners. Here are a few easy and delicious recipes your horse will adore!


1. Apple Oat Cookies

Ingredients:

  • 1 apple, grated

  • 1 cup rolled oats

  • 1/4 cup molasses or honey

  • 1/2 cup flour (whole wheat or oat flour)

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. Mix all ingredients in a bowl until a sticky dough forms.

  3. Roll into small balls or press into cookie shapes.

  4. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

  5. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until firm and golden.

  6. Let cool completely before feeding.

Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to a week or refrigerate for longer freshness.


2. Carrot & Apple Bites

Ingredients:

  • 1 large carrot, shredded

  • 1 apple, grated

  • 1 cup oats

  • 1/4 cup molasses

  • 1/2 cup bran (optional for texture)

Instructions:

  1. Combine all ingredients in a large bowl.

  2. Mix until the mixture holds together; add a splash of water if too dry.

  3. Shape into small bite-sized balls.

  4. Place on parchment paper and bake at 325°F (165°C) for 20 minutes.

  5. Cool completely before serving.

Tip: These are great as trail ride rewards or post-training snacks!


3. Peppermint Horse Cookies

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup whole wheat flour

  • 1 cup oats

  • 1/4 cup molasses

  • 2 crushed peppermint candies (sugar-free preferred)

  • 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. Mix dry ingredients in a bowl, then stir in molasses and water.

  3. Roll dough to about 1/2-inch thick and cut into fun shapes.

  4. Place on a greased baking sheet.

  5. Bake for 20 minutes or until hard and crunchy.

Storage: Keep in a cool, dry place for up to two weeks.


4. Banana Bran Muffins for Horses

Ingredients:

  • 2 ripe bananas, mashed

  • 1 cup bran

  • 1/2 cup oats

  • 1/4 cup molasses

  • 1/4 cup applesauce

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. Mix all ingredients in a large bowl.

  3. Spoon mixture into greased mini muffin tins.

  4. Bake for 25–30 minutes until firm.

  5. Let cool before serving to your horse.

Storage: Refrigerate and use within a week.


Final Thoughts

Homemade horse treats are a wonderful way to bond with your horse and reward good behavior. Always introduce new treats gradually and in moderation, and remember—these snacks are meant to supplement, not replace, a balanced diet. With these easy recipes, you can whip up something tasty and healthy that your horse will absolutely love!

Do Not Feed*

These plants could be deadly or poisonous if given to your horse; do not feed the items on this list.
  • Plants from the nightshade family (ie. tomatoes, potatoes, eggplant, peppers)
  • Cruciferous plants or plants from the cabbage family (ie. broccoli, cauliflower, kale, brussel sprouts)
  • Avocados
  • Rhubarb
  • Foods with caffeine
  • Onions
  • Fruit pits
  • Chocolate
  • Lawn Clippings
*Contact your veterinarian or equine nutritionist for more information
 
  
Share your favorite recipes that your horse likes to snack on!

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