Have you ever dropped a blueberry on the floor and watched your dog chase it like it’s a tiny bouncing treasure?
Same.
That’s how this recipe was born.
I wanted something:
- Naturally sweet
- Packed with nutrients
- Soft enough for training
- Easy enough to make without turning my kitchen into chaos
And these Banana Blueberry Antioxidant Bites delivered.
They’re soft, slightly chewy, naturally colorful, and full of ingredients that actually benefit your dog not just fill their stomach.
Why I Love This Recipe
Let me be honest.
The word “antioxidant” sounds like something from a health magazine you pretend to read.
But here’s the thing:
Blueberries are genuinely one of the best fruits you can give your dog (in moderation).
And when combined with banana?
You get:
- Natural sweetness
- Digestive support
- Immune support
- Soft texture
- Zero artificial junk
Plus… they look adorable. Yes, I care.
Are Blueberries Safe for Dogs?
Short answer: Yes.
Long answer: Yes — and they’re amazing.
Blueberries for Dogs
Blueberries are:
- Rich in antioxidants
- High in vitamin C
- Great for brain health
- Low in calories
They support:
- Immune system
- Cognitive function
- Overall health
Just don’t overdo it. Even superfoods need moderation.
🍌 Bananas for Dogs
Bananas add:
- Natural sweetness
- Potassium
- Fiber
- Soft binding texture
Use ripe bananas only. Brown spots = perfect.
Who Are These Bites Best For?
These antioxidant bites are perfect if you have:
- A growing puppy
- A senior dog
- A dog who trains often
- A pup who needs small, soft treats
- A health-conscious dog parent (hi, that’s us)
They’re small, soft, and easy to break into pieces.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple. Clean. Powerful.
🧺 Ingredients
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- ¼ cup fresh blueberries, lightly mashed
- 1 cup oat flour (or blended rolled oats)
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted
- 1–3 tablespoons water (if needed)
Optional:
- 1 tablespoon plain unsweetened yogurt
- 1 teaspoon ground flaxseed
That’s it.
No sugar.
No salt.
No artificial anything.
Why I Lightly Mash the Blueberries
This step matters.
If you leave blueberries whole:
- They burst unevenly
- The texture gets inconsistent
- The bites may crumble
Lightly mash them so you:
- Spread flavor evenly
- Get beautiful purple speckles
- Improve binding
Plus it looks pretty. And yes… I care about that.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Banana Blueberry Bites
Let’s get into it.
Step 1: Mash the Banana
Mash until smooth and creamy.
No chunks.
We’re not making surprise-filled muffins.
Step 2: Mash the Blueberries
Lightly crush with a fork.
You want:
- Juices released
- Some small pieces remaining
Your bowl will turn purple. That’s normal. Don’t panic.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
Combine:
- Mashed banana
- Mashed blueberries
- Egg
- Melted coconut oil
Stir until well blended.
It smells fruity and fresh at this stage.
Your dog is already watching.
Step 4: Add Oat Flour
Add oat flour gradually while mixing.
If the mixture feels:
- Too sticky → add more flour
- Too dry → add water 1 tablespoon at a time
You want a soft dough that holds shape but stays moist.
Step 5: Shape the Bites
Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
You can:
- Roll small balls
- Press into mini discs
- Use a small cookie cutter
Keep them bite-sized.
Remember: these are treats, not full meals.
Step 6: Bake
Bake at 175°C (350°F) for 15–18 minutes.
You want:
- Lightly firm edges
- Soft center
- Slightly golden bottoms
Overbaking = crunchy cookies.
This recipe aims for soft bites.
Step 7: Cool Completely
Cooling firms them up naturally.
Resist the urge to test one immediately.
Unless you enjoy hot blueberry fingers.
Texture Test
Press one gently.
If it:
✔ Feels soft
✔ Holds shape
✔ Doesn’t crumble
You nailed it.
Storage Tips
Because we’re not using preservatives.
Fridge: 4–5 days
Freezer: Up to 2 months
I freeze half every time.
It saves me from emergency baking sessions.
Portion Guide
General guideline:
- Small dogs → 1–2 bites
- Medium dogs → 2–3
- Large dogs → 3–4
Treats should stay under 10% of daily calorie intake.
Even if they act personally betrayed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Let’s prevent kitchen drama.
❌ Using sweetened dried blueberries
❌ Adding sugar
❌ Overbaking
❌ Making giant treats
❌ Skipping cooling time
Keep it simple. Keep it balanced.
Fun Variations
Want to level it up?
🥕 Add Carrot
Add 2 tablespoons finely grated carrot for extra nutrients.
🥥 Add Coconut Flakes
A small sprinkle of unsweetened coconut adds texture.
🥜 Add Peanut Butter
1 teaspoon natural peanut butter adds richness.
Each variation keeps the antioxidant base intact.
Why I Choose Antioxidant-Rich Treats
Let’s be real.
Our dogs deserve more than filler snacks.
When I choose ingredients like blueberries, I feel good knowing:
- I’m supporting his immune system
- I’m giving natural nutrients
- I’m avoiding artificial additives
It’s simple. But intentional.
And that matters to me.
My Personal Experience
The first time I baked these, I didn’t expect much.
But when I dropped one accidentally?
My dog launched after it like it was treasure.
Now every time I rinse blueberries, he shows up instantly.
He doesn’t know what antioxidants are.
But he knows they taste good.
And honestly? That’s enough.
