Every horse lover deserves an easy, wholesome treat recipe that’s just as fun to make as it is to feed. That’s exactly what you’ll get with these No Bake Horse Cookies: a sweet, chewy, and naturally delicious snack you can whip up in minutes with farm-fresh flavors like oats, apples, molasses, and carrots. They’re made with real, recognizable ingredients and require zero baking, meaning you can treat your four-legged friends (and even sample a bite yourself) without ever turning on the oven. Whether you’re keeping things simple or getting creative with mix-ins, this homemade delight is guaranteed to put happy smiles on both human and horse faces.
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Oat Mixture:
- 2 cups old-fashioned oats
Base Ingredients:
- 1 cup sweet feed or crushed horse treats
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup grated carrots or finely chopped apples
- 1/4 cup ground flaxseed (optional)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
How to Make No Bake Horse Cookies
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients and Prep
Start by measuring out all your ingredients so everything is within arm’s reach. Line a baking sheet or tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking later—prepping ahead is the secret to effortless cookie making!
Step 2: Mix Everything Together
In a nice big bowl, combine the oats, sweet feed or crushed horse treats, molasses, applesauce, carrots or chopped apples, flaxseed if you’re using it, and cinnamon. Stir enthusiastically until everything is moist, sticky, and the delicious aroma fills your kitchen.
Step 3: Form the Cookies
Scoop out about one tablespoon of the mixture at a time. Roll it between your palms into bite-sized balls or gently press into a classic cookie shape—whichever feels more fun for you and your horses!
Step 4: Chill to Set
Arrange the shaped cookies on your lined tray, then pop the tray in the refrigerator. Allow them to chill for two to three hours, giving the cookies time to firm up so they hold together perfectly.
Step 5: Ready to Serve!
Once the cookies are chilled and set, transfer them to an airtight container. Your No Bake Horse Cookies are now ready for snack time, gifting, or even a quick treat at the barn.
How to Serve No Bake Horse Cookies
Garnishes
For an extra-special touch, sprinkle the finished cookies with a pinch more cinnamon before chilling, or roll them lightly in a bit of extra oats for rustic flair. You can even press a small chunk of apple or a thin carrot slice on top of each for a fun, decorative finish that’s as pretty as it is tasty.
Side Dishes
While horses love these cookies as a treat on their own, they pair wonderfully with crunchy apple slices or fresh-cut carrots for a wholesome, celebratory snack. For humans, enjoy alongside a warming mug of apple cider or tea on a crisp day at the stables.
Creative Ways to Present
Pack your No Bake Horse Cookies into small mason jars or cellophane bags and tie with colorful ribbon for an adorable, shareable gift. Arrange them on a platter at pony parties or offer a cookie each during grooming sessions as a simple reward. These treats can even be threaded into a “cookie garland” for a playful (and edible!) stable decoration.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover No Bake Horse Cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh, chewy, and delicious for up to one week—perfect for making ahead or prepping treats for barn visits throughout the week.
Freezing
For longer-term storage, lay the cookies out on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to three months this way. Simply thaw the desired amount in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating
These treats are best enjoyed cold right from the refrigerator, but if you want to soften them slightly, let stand at room temperature for a few minutes—no actual reheating needed! Always check the texture to ensure it’s just right before treating your horse.
FAQs
Are No Bake Horse Cookies safe for all horses?
Yes, these cookies are made with horse-friendly ingredients, but always feed in moderation and check with your vet if your horse has specific dietary needs, sensitivities, or medical conditions.
Can I make No Bake Horse Cookies without molasses?
While molasses is traditional for its stickiness and sweetness, you can swap in honey or agave syrup in a pinch, or simply use more applesauce or mashed banana—just note that the cookies may be a bit less firm.
What are some tasty add-ins for variety?
Try mixing in chopped peppermint, dried cranberries, or even a handful of sunflower seeds for a festive twist. Just be sure every extra ingredient is safe and suitable for horses!
How do I know if my horse likes these treats?
Offer a small piece of a cookie at first and watch your horse’s reaction. If they gobble it up and look for more, you’re in business! Every horse has their own taste preferences, so keep an eye on what flavors excite them most.
Are these cookies suitable for ponies or mini horses?
Absolutely! No Bake Horse Cookies are just as safe and loved by ponies or minis—simply offer a smaller portion to suit their size and dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a quick, wholesome treat that’s guaranteed to earn you extra equine affection, these No Bake Horse Cookies fit the bill. They’re so simple, customizable, and fun to make, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again. Happy treat-making and happy horses!
Print
No Bake Horse Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes (plus chill time)
- Yield: 20–24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These No Bake Horse Cookies are a simple and wholesome treat for your equine friends, made with oats, sweet feed, molasses, and other natural ingredients. Easy to prepare and perfect for rewarding your horse.
Ingredients
Oat Mixture:
- 2 cups old-fashioned oats
Base Ingredients:
- 1 cup sweet feed or crushed horse treats
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup grated carrots or finely chopped apples
- 1/4 cup ground flaxseed (optional)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine oats, sweet feed, molasses, applesauce, carrots/apples, flaxseed, and cinnamon.
- Shape Cookies: Form mixture into balls or flatten into cookies. Place on a tray lined with parchment paper.
- Chill: Refrigerate for 2–3 hours until firm.
- Store: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Notes
- These cookies are safe as occasional horse treats.
- Feed in moderation and check with your vet for dietary concerns.
- You can swap applesauce with mashed banana or add peppermint for flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Pet Treats
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Equine
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0.3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
