Make: DIY Pupcakes for Dog Birthdays

Furbaby birthday in the house! We’re taking a minute off of kids today, and devoting that minute to…my dog.  Today my gentle giant, Thor, turns 2 – and I have decided to do that thing I said I’d *never* do as a dog owner and celebrate his birthday with reckless abandon.

I’m not really a “my dog is my kid” person, but this little corker deserves a day of getting his party on. So far, he has spent the day with his friends rolling in the mud, enjoyed an all-windows-down car ride,  scarfed an oatmeal and apple breakfast fit for a king, and is currently sunning on the deck. Not too shabby.

Thor had a pretty tough puppyhood medically, and because there are some lingering issues and dietary restrictions, I don’t typically stray far from his regular food – all the more reason to do something extra special today. So, I combined a few recipes I found online, made some substitutions, added a couple of his favorite things, and came up with this.

Not only does he looovvvvve them, but the sweet potato and rice flour are also great stomach soothers. Heads up: if you don’t want to puree the sweet potato, you can use organic pumpkin instead.

Sweet Potato Pupcakes with Peanut Butter & Bacon Frosting

Makes: 6 Pupcakes

Humans take note: this icing is TO DIE FOR. Goodbye powdered sugar – hello peanut butter and greek yogurt! This icing + dark chocolate anything…I’m going to leave that thought right there for you. Do what you will with it.

The Pupcakes should hold up for 4-5 days if stored in an airtight container in a cool, shaded, dry spot. Peanut butter frosting should be stored separately, covered, and refrigerated. Frost immediately before serving.

Consensus…? THOR APPROVED.

Easy little treats like these are a great way to get your kids involved in the kitchen! For more ideas to help children of all ages learn basic kitchen skills visit our collection of hands-on kitchen activities for kids.