Description
Refreshing frozen treats combining antioxidant-rich berries with creamy yogurt and protein-packed beans—the perfect healthy way to keep dogs cool and happy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Freeze Time: 4+ hours | Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes | Makes: About 12 ice cubes
Ingredients
- 1 cup (8 oz) mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries – fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup (4 oz) cooked kidney beans, rinsed thoroughly (low-sodium preferred)
- 1/2 cup (4 oz) plain yogurt (Greek yogurt works beautifully for thickness)
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) honey (raw, unprocessed preferred for natural sweetness)
Instructions
- Prep your berries – If using frozen berries, let them thaw slightly for easier blending while still maintaining that cold factor for the final mixture.
- Blend to perfection – In food processor, combine mixed berries, rinsed kidney beans, plain yogurt, and honey, then blend for 2-3 minutes until completely smooth and creamy.
- Check your consistency – Mixture should look like thick, colorful smoothie that tastes amazing (it’s totally safe for humans to try too!).
- Fill your molds – Pour mixture into ice cube trays or fun silicone molds, filling about 3/4 full to allow for expansion during freezing.
- Freeze completely – Freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight until solid (patience is key for perfect frozen texture).
- Serve and enjoy – Pop out one cube and serve to your eager pup on hot days, then watch them figure out their perfect ice cream licking strategy!
Notes:
- Always rinse kidney beans thoroughly to remove excess sodium that could upset sensitive stomachs
- 3/4 full is perfect for ice cube trays to prevent overflow during freezing expansion
- Amber gets absolutely zen while licking these, but every dog develops their own ice cream eating style
Storage Tips:
- Store in freezer for up to 3 months in sealed containers for maximum freshness
- Pop out portions as needed and keep the rest frozen for ongoing summer cooling sessions
- Let soften 5-10 minutes if too hard for easy licking, especially for senior dogs
What Makes This Recipe Special:
This combination provides three types of nutrition in one frozen treat—antioxidants from mixed berries support immune health, plant-based protein from kidney beans provides sustained energy, and probiotics from yogurt promote digestive wellness. Unlike commercial frozen dog treats that are mostly flavored water, this actually delivers substantial nutrition while providing effective cooling relief during hot weather.
Mix It Up (Summer Cooling Variations):
Extra Hydrating: Add 1 tablespoon coconut water for increased electrolyte replacement perfect for active summer dogs
Fun Party Shapes: Use bone or paw-shaped silicone molds for special occasions and easier holding during licking sessions
Senior Support Plus: Add 1 tablespoon plain pumpkin puree for extra fiber and digestive support ideal for less active older dogs in hot weather