Animal-lover Kristina Matisic came up with this easy recipe for homemade dog treats in support of National Cupcake Day for SPCAs & Humane Societies.

Apple pupcake treats for dogs

Makes 12-14 large pupcakes or 36 mini-pupcakes. Serve in moderation.

Ingredients:

2 3/4 cups water
1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/4 teaspoon vanilla
4 cups whole-wheat flour
1 cup dried apple pieces (You can also use fresh fruit.)
1 tbsp baking powder
1 egg, beaten
4 tbsp honey

Frosting:

Cream cheese or peanut butter
Doggy treats or dry dog food (optional)

Method:

1. Preheat your oven to 350 F

2. Spray cupcake tin with cooking spray.

3. Mix wet ingredients thoroughly. Combine dry ingredients in a separate bowl.

4. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients slowly, scraping well to make sure no dry mixture is left. Pour into cupcake tins.

4. Bake large pupcakes for 30 minutes and mini-pupcakes for 15-18 minutes. Insert a toothpick into the centre and if it comes out dry, they are done. Cool completely.

5. Use a knife to top with cream cheese or peanut butter or leave plain. Top with doggy treats or a piece of dry dog food, if desired.

6. Store in a sealed container.