Did you know that February 23 is International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day? No seriously, it is!
While I’m sure our four-legged friends appreciate their treats any day of the year, why not take an opportunity to do something extra special for your canine pal. Because who doesn’t like homemade cookies?
Julie Van Rosendaal, the author of seven bestselling cookbooks, has shared a recipe from her book In the Dog Kitchen: Great Snack Recipes for Your Dog (TouchWood Editions). In this completely revised and updated edition of a well-loved book, you’ll find 70 easy-to-follow recipes to make healthy dog treats, including grain-free, gluten-free, dairy-free, and even vegetarian options.
Gingerbread Mailmen
Makes about 2 dozen cookies
These make a great gift, especially during the holidays. If you like, press in some carob chips or pieces of peanut for eyes before you bake the cookies.
- 2 cups whole-wheat flour
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp powdered ginger
- ¼ cup canola oil
- ¼ cup dark molasses
- ¼ cup water
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the flour, cinnamon, and ginger. In a small bowl, stir together the oil, molasses, and water. Add to the dry ingredients and stir just until you have a soft dough.
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about ¼-inch thick. Cut into gingerbread men with a cookie cutter. (You can also make other shapes with a cookie cutter, the rim of a glass, or a knife.) Transfer the cookies to the prepared baking sheets.
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until firm. Let the cookies cool on the sheets, or turn off the oven and leave the cookies inside for several hours to harden as they cool. Store in a tightly sealed container.
Images and recipes courtesy of TouchWood Editions
Julie Van Rosendaal also writes recipes for humans. For the past decade, she’s been the food and nutrition columnist on the Calgary Eyeopener on CBC Radio One. She’s also the contributing food editor of the Globe and Mail, food editor of Parents Canada magazine, contributing food editor at Western Living and a freelance writer who contributes regularly to publications across Canada. Many know Julie from her popular food blog, DinnerwithJulie.com, which documents real life in her home kitchen in Calgary, Alberta, where she lives with her husband and son.