Next, pour the batter into your greased cake pan, smoothing it out to ensure even baking. Pop it into the oven and let it bake for around 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it because the aroma wafting through your kitchen will be so tempting! Once it’s baked, let the cake cool completely before frosting.
While it’s cooling, you can whip up the yogurt frosting by simply mixing the yogurt with a bit of honey if you like. When the cake is cool, spread this yogurt frosting generously over the top. I sometimes use extra dog treats to create a little decoration like sprinkles. My pup gets so excited watching me prepare this cake!
Once adorned, it’s time for the best part—serving it up! I usually cut it into small pieces, as my dog loves to share with their furry friends (and sometimes even their human pals). Just watching them devour it is a heartwarming experience that makes all the effort worth it!
Pro Tips for Best Results
I found that using whole wheat flour gives the best texture. The first time I used regular flour, and while my dog enjoyed it, the whole wheat gives a satisfying chew. Keep the batter thick but not dry; if it feels too dry, add a splash more applesauce.
Make sure your peanut butter is xylitol-free. I made the mistake of not checking the label once and learned the hard way that not all peanut butter is safe for dogs. Trust me, it’s worth double-checking to avoid any mishaps.
Lastly, consider letting your dog help with some "taste testing." I found it fun to sneak a little sample of the batter before adding the eggs (look out for those egg shells!). Just make sure it’s safe and while it’s not as tasty for us humans, I can guarantee your pup will enjoy it!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common pitfall is overmixing the batter. I did this initially, thinking it would make a fluffier cake, but it ended up dense and dry. Gentle mixing is key, just enough to incorporate everything without overworking those ingredients. (See the next page below to continue…)
Another mistake I learned from is not letting the cake cool adequately before frosting. The yogurt frosting can melt and slide right off if the cake is still warm. I waited impatiently the first time, and let’s just say it turned into a gooey mess!
Also, don’t skip the step of greasing your cake pan. I once trusted my non-stick pan too much, and the cake came out in sad, crumbled pieces instead of a perfect round. A little extra grease goes a long way!
Finally, be cautious with portions. It’s easy to get carried away with celebrations, but too much cake can upset your pup’s tummy. I always save a slice for themselves and share the rest with doggy friends since sharing is often an instant party!