by Cynthia Walgenbach
With schools closed, cozy weather, and the kids at home for extended amounts of time, you might be looking for a good Christmas activity to participate in as a family. If you’re like this mama here, it’s easy to overindulge in sugary treats and find yourself binge-watching too many Disney classics with the kids. So if you need a family Christmas activity that doesn’t involve insulin spikes or screen-time and helps your children focus on others this holiday season, I have an activity for you!
Many kids long for a pet during the holiday season. Who doesn’t want to snuggle up with a furry friend when the temperature drops? Chances are though, you might not be in a place to adopt or foster a new pet this season. Even so, your kids can still do something nice for the animals who need it most by making dog treats for local animals in need. Your kids will learn how to pay it forward while still having fun in the kitchen and creating memories with the family -- what could be better?!
Wrap these up in a festive tin after baking and you’re good to go! These pet treats should keep for 1-2 weeks in an airtight container in the fridge or for 3 months in a sealed freezer bag.
Ingredients for the Doggie Treats:
Festive silicone mold (We like hearts or gingerbread people)
2 cups whole wheat flour
1 cup quick-cook oats
1 tsp baking powder
1 large egg
1 cup applesauce
¼ cup of peanut butter (smooth or chunky)
¼ cup of coconut oil, melted and cooled
Cooking spray
Direction (Makes 2 dozen):
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
Spray your silicone mold with cooking spray.
In a large bowl mix your dry ingredients.
Make a well in the center and with a wooden spoon or your hands, mix in your wet ingredients.
Spoon your mixture into your silicone mold, filling half-way. Smooth mixture down.
Bake for 20-25 minutes.
Let cool & serve.
Cynthia Walgenbach is the founder of Renewed Motherhood. Follower her @renewed_motherhood on Instagram and @RenewedMotherhood on Facebook.