Vegan Quinoa & Banana Mini Muffins For Dog – Protein-Packed

If your dog ever seems low on energy or you simply want to give them something homemade and nourishing, these Vegan Quinoa & Banana Mini Muffins fit perfectly. I’ve made these many times for dogs that need gentle, clean snacks, and they work especially well when you want something filling without being heavy. They’re small, soft, and easy to portion, which makes them ideal for training, rewarding good behavior, or just showing your dog a little extra love.

What I like most is how simple and honest this recipe feels. There’s nothing artificial, nothing unnecessary—just real ingredients that dogs usually enjoy and tolerate well. The smell alone while they bake is enough to get tails wagging before they’re even out of the oven.

Ingredients: Nutritious, Protein-Packed, and Dog-Friendly

This recipe relies on a short list of ingredients, but each one plays an important role. I’ve found that when you keep things simple like this, dogs digest treats better and you avoid unnecessary stomach issues.

Cooked quinoa is the backbone of these muffins. It’s filling without being heavy and provides plant-based protein that helps support everyday energy. When I use quinoa, I always make sure it’s fully cooked and fluffy, because that texture blends smoothly and is much easier for dogs to handle.

Banana adds natural sweetness and moisture. Most dogs respond well to it, and it helps hold the muffins together without needing eggs or dairy. A ripe banana works best because it mashes easily and blends evenly into the batter.

Oat flour keeps everything gentle. I’ve used it often for dogs with sensitive stomachs, and it consistently gives a soft texture without upsetting digestion. It also helps the muffins hold their shape without becoming dry.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Quinoa & Banana Mini Muffins

These muffins don’t require any complicated steps, which is one of the reasons I keep coming back to this recipe. Even on busy days, it’s easy to put together.

Preheat the Oven

Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, prepare your mini muffin tin. Lightly greasing it or using paper liners makes removal much easier and keeps the muffins intact once they’re baked.

Mash the Banana

Place the banana in a mixing bowl and mash it until smooth. I always take a little extra time here to break down any lumps because a smoother banana gives a better overall texture. This step helps everything mix evenly later.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked quinoa and oat flour directly into the mashed banana. Stir slowly until everything comes together into a thick batter. If it feels too stiff, a small splash of water loosens it just enough without changing the structure of the muffins.

Fill the Muffin Tin

Spoon the batter into the mini muffin cups, filling each one about three-quarters full. These muffins don’t rise much, so there’s no need to worry about overflow or spacing.

Bake

Place the tray in the oven and bake for about 15 to 18 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the tops feel firm and lightly golden. I usually test one with a toothpick—if it comes out clean, they’re good to go.

Cool Completely

Let the muffins sit in the pan for a few minutes before moving them to a wire rack. Allowing them to cool fully is important, especially if your dog tends to gulp treats quickly.

Air Fryer Option: Quick and Easy Mini Muffins

On days when I don’t want to turn on the oven, the air fryer works surprisingly well. It’s faster and still produces soft, fluffy muffins.

Preheat the air fryer to 320°F (160°C). Arrange the filled liners in a single layer so the air can circulate evenly. Air fry for around 8 to 10 minutes, checking halfway through. The texture comes out light and tender, making these perfect for quick snacks.

Why These Ingredients Are Great for Dogs (and Why Going Vegan Works Well)

I’ve seen firsthand how dogs respond to treats made with clean, plant-based ingredients. Quinoa offers complete protein, which supports muscle maintenance and steady energy. Bananas contribute fiber and potassium, helping digestion while adding natural sweetness. Oat flour keeps everything easy on the stomach and reduces the risk of irritation for sensitive dogs.

Choosing a vegan option like this doesn’t mean sacrificing nutrition. In fact, for many dogs, it removes common allergens and keeps treats simple and balanced.

Storing Quinoa & Banana Mini Muffins: Keeping Them Fresh

One of the best things about these muffins is how well they store. I often make a larger batch so I always have something ready.

In the Refrigerator

Once cooled, place the muffins in an airtight container and store them in the fridge. They stay fresh for up to a week and maintain a soft texture when kept chilled.

In the Freezer

These muffins also freeze beautifully. After cooling, place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you need one, let it thaw at room temperature for a short time, and it’s ready to serve without any extra prep.

FAQs

Can I use uncooked quinoa instead of cooked?
Cooked quinoa is essential. Uncooked quinoa has a hard texture and must be fully cooked to be safe and digestible for dogs.

What if my dog doesn’t like bananas?
Unsweetened applesauce or plain pumpkin puree work well as alternatives and still provide moisture and natural flavor.

How many mini muffins should I give per day?
Most dogs do well with one or two mini muffins a day. Portion size always depends on your dog’s size and daily diet.

Are these safe for puppies?
Yes, they are. Start with a small piece and watch how your puppy responds before offering more.

Can I add cinnamon?
A very small pinch is safe and can add a mild aroma, but it’s best to keep amounts minimal.

Can I use regular flour instead of oat flour?
You can, but oat flour is much gentler. If you use regular flour, you may need to slightly adjust the liquid.

Do they need refrigeration after baking?
If you’re keeping them longer than a day or two, refrigeration helps maintain freshness.

Will these stain furniture or carpets?
They’re generally low-staining, but serving them on a mat or outside is always a safe choice.

Final Thoughts

These Vegan Quinoa & Banana Mini Muffins have become one of my go-to homemade dog treats because they’re simple, nourishing, and reliable. Dogs enjoy them, they’re easy to store, and they fit naturally into a balanced routine—whether as a reward, snack, or training treat. Once you make them, you’ll likely find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again.