Store-bought horse treats are fun, but often loaded with sugar and mystery ingredients. Your horse deserves better.

Homemade treats are the sweet spot, literally. You control what goes in, skip the junk, and save money. 

Plus, it’s a fun way to spoil your four-legged buddy with love and oats.

Whether you’re rewarding good behavior or just feeling extra generous, whipping up treats at home is easier than you think. No fancy chef hat required.

Grab a bowl, roll up your sleeves, and let’s turn your kitchen into your horse’s favorite place.

Why Make Homemade Horse Treats?

Because your horse deserves more than just processed pellets with a fancy label.

Homemade treats let you control every ingredient, no hidden sugars, fillers, or preservatives. They’re perfect for horses with dietary restrictions or sensitive stomachs.

It’s also way more affordable. A bag of store-bought treats can cost a fortune, while a batch of homemade goodies might just take a few carrots and a handful of oats.

And here’s the best part: your horse will know the difference. The smell, the taste, the texture, it all hits differently when it’s made with love.

Bonus? You get a fun bonding activity, too.

Safety Tips Before You Start Making Horse Treats

Before you begin mixing things up, keep these tips in mind:

Know your horse’s health needs. Some horses can’t handle sugar, starch, or certain grains, especially if they have insulin resistance or Cushing’s.

Avoid harmful ingredients. Avoid chocolate, caffeine, onions, garlic, and large amounts of molasses or artificial sweeteners. (Check out some of the foods horses should not eat in our guide.)

Test in small amounts. Always offer new treats in small portions to see how your horse reacts. Even natural ingredients can cause issues in large amounts.

Watch the texture. Treats that are too hard can be difficult for older horses to chew. Go soft if your horse has dental problems.

Mind the storage. Homemade treats don’t have preservatives, so store them in airtight containers and refrigerate if needed. Toss anything moldy.

Treats are not meals. Keep portions small and occasional. They’re called treats for a reason.

Common Ingredients You Can Use

Making horse treats at home is easier when you know what works. Here are some safe, tasty favorites:

Oats: Rolled or quick oats are a go-to base for many treats.

Carrots: Shredded or chopped, they’re sweet, crunchy, and loved by most horses.

Apples: Dice them up, just be sure to remove the seeds.

Unsweetened applesauce: Great for adding moisture and a little flavor.

Molasses: Use sparingly for stickiness and sweetness.

Bananas: Soft, sweet, and easy to mash.

Flaxseed: Adds fiber and a healthy fat boost.

Bran: Wheat or rice bran can bulk up a recipe.

Coconut oil: Helps bind ingredients and adds healthy fat.

Peppermints: Crushed up, they make festive and fun additions, just don’t go overboard.

14 Simple Homemade Horse Treat Recipes

Looking to spoil your horse with something special? Skip the store-bought snacks and try these 14 simple homemade horse treat recipes instead. 

They’re easy to make, budget-friendly, and packed with ingredients your horse will love. 

Whether you’re rewarding good behavior or just feeling generous, there’s a treat here for every occasion.

1. Stud Muffin Horse Treats

Stud Muffin horse treats are a chewy, sweet reward that horses absolutely love. Their soft texture and rich molasses flavor make them perfect for special occasions or just showing your horse a little extra love. 

To make them at home, mix 2 cups of oats, 1 cup of flour, and 1 cup of grated carrots or chopped apples in a bowl. 

In a separate bowl, combine ½ cup of molasses with ¼ cup of water, then stir the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until a thick, sticky dough forms. 

Roll into small balls or scoop into mini muffin tins. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, until they’re cooked through but still soft. 

Let them cool completely before feeding. These treats are a great way to avoid additives while giving your horse something tasty, just remember to serve them in moderation.

2. Horse Cookies

Horse cookies are a fun and easy way to treat your horse while keeping things natural and nutritious. 

These crunchy snacks are baked to perfection and can be customized with your horse’s favorite flavors like apple, carrot, or molasses. 

Making them at home is simple: mix your base ingredients into a dough, shape into small rounds, and bake until golden and firm. 

Once cooled, they’re ready to serve or store in an airtight container. These cookies are perfect for training rewards or a well-deserved snack after a ride, and your horse will love every bite.

3. Earth Muffins

Earth Muffins are soft, homemade horse treats with wholesome ingredients straight from the earth, like oats, carrots, and apples. 

They’re moist, lightly sweet, and full of flavor, making them a favorite for horses who prefer softer snacks. 

To make them, you simply mix a thick batter of grain, fruit, and a natural binder like molasses or applesauce. Then, scoop the mix into muffin tins and bake until just set. 

The result is a dense, cake-like treat that’s easy to chew and smells amazing. 

Perfect for older horses or those with dental issues, Earth Muffins are a gentle, feel-good reward straight from your kitchen.

4. EmpowerMINT Snacks

EmpowerMINT Snacks are refreshing, minty horse treats that combine the natural sweetness of apples with the invigorating flavor of peppermint. 

These homemade goodies are perfect for rewarding your horse after a ride or as a special treat during training sessions. 

The combination of oats and flour provides a satisfying crunch, while molasses adds a touch of sweetness that horses love.​

To prepare EmpowerMINT Snacks, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Crush 12 peppermint candies or 6 candy canes into small pieces. 

Core and finely chop two medium apples. In a large bowl, mix 2 cups of flour and 1 cup of rolled oats. 

Add 1/3 cup of molasses and stir until combined. Gradually add about 1 cup of room-temperature water, mixing until the dough reaches a cookie dough consistency. 

Fold in the chopped apples and crushed peppermints. Roll tablespoon-sized portions of the dough into balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. 

Bake for approximately 10 minutes, or until the treats are golden brown. Allow them to cool completely before serving.

5. Pony Crack Snax

Pony Crack Snax are a favorite among horses. They combine sweet and savory flavors with a satisfying texture. 

These homemade treats are crafted from wholesome ingredients like grated carrots, apples, oats, and alfalfa pellets. 

Adding molasses and a hint of cinnamon enhances their appeal, creating a treat that’s hard for any horse to resist.​

Here’s how to make pony crack snax: 

Preheat oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.​

Soften alfalfa pellets: Place ½ cup of alfalfa pellets in a bowl, cover with warm water, and let them soak for 10–15 minutes until softened. Drain any excess water.​

Prepare ingredients: Grate 1 cup of carrots and 1 apple.​

Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the grated carrots, grated apple, 2 cups of rolled oats, softened alfalfa pellets, ¼ cup of molasses, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Mix thoroughly. If the mixture is too dry, add a small amount of water to achieve a dough-like consistency.

Shape treats: Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls or patties, about the size of a golf ball. If the mixture is sticky, lightly wet your hands to prevent sticking.​

Bake: Place the shaped treats on the prepared baking tray, spacing them slightly apart. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the treats are firm and dry on the outside.

Cool: Allow the treats to cool on the tray for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

6. Gourmet Treats

Gourmet horse treats are a step above your everyday snack. They are crafted with care, packed with flavor, and often shaped into cute designs. 

These treats mix horse-safe ingredients like apples, carrots, oats, and molasses with extras like flaxseed, cinnamon, or even crushed peppermint for flair. 

What makes them “gourmet” is not just what’s inside but the attention to detail. They can be shaped with cookie cutters, drizzled with a molasses glaze, or topped with a hint of shredded apple for decoration.

To make them, blend your dry ingredients and stir in the wet ones until a soft dough forms. Then, shape, bake, and let cool. 

You can even personalize them with initials or fun patterns. These treats are perfect for birthdays, holidays, or anytime you want to show your horse some extra love.

7. Oatmeal Horse Treats

Oatmeal horse treats are a classic favorite. Easy to make, full of fiber, and gentle on your horse’s stomach. 

They’re perfect for horses with sensitive digestion or those who prefer a mild, natural flavor.

To whip up a batch, start by combining rolled oats with a bit of flour to form the base. Mix in mashed banana, grated carrot, or applesauce for moisture and sweetness. 

A spoonful of molasses or honey can add a tasty kick, but keep it light to avoid too much sugar. 

Once the dough is thick and sticky, shape it into small cookies or balls and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes until firm.

Let them cool completely before serving. These treats are nutritious, easy to store, and loved by horses of all ages.

8. Peppermint Horse Kisses

Peppermint Horse Kisses are fun, bite-sized treats with a refreshing twist, perfect for holidays or a little extra love on a hot day. 

These minty snacks combine the natural sweetness of apples or molasses with the crisp, cool flavor of crushed peppermint candies.

To make them, start by mixing oats and a bit of flour in a bowl. Stir in unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana, then fold in finely crushed peppermints. 

The dough should be soft and slightly sticky. Roll it into small “kiss-sized” balls and place them on a baking sheet. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for about 15–20 minutes, until they’re set.

Once cooled, you’ll have adorable little treats with a hint of mint, enough to make your horse feel special. Store in an airtight container and serve in moderation.

9. Peanut Butter Apple Horse Treats

Peanut Butter Apple Horse Treats are a simple, satisfying snack that combines two flavors horses go crazy for. 

The natural sweetness of apples pairs perfectly with the creamy richness of peanut butter, creating a soft, chewy treat that’s easy to make and fun to feed.

Start by chopping one or two apples into small pieces, no seeds, just the fruit. In a bowl, mix the apples with rolled oats and a generous spoonful of unsweetened peanut butter. 

You can add a splash of water or applesauce to help it bind. Mix until the dough holds together, then form into small balls or press into flat cookie shapes. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden on the edges.

Let them cool completely before serving. These treats are soft, flavorful, and perfect for horses who deserve a little extra love.

10. Oat and Carrot Bites

Oat and carrot bites are a go-to homemade treat for horse owners who want something quick, healthy, and loved by nearly every horse. 

The natural sweetness of carrots combined with the hearty goodness of oats makes this a wholesome snack packed with fiber and flavor.

To make them, grate a couple of fresh carrots and mix them with rolled oats and a bit of flour. 

Add a spoonful of molasses or unsweetened applesauce to bind the ingredients into a sticky dough. 

Shape the mix into small bite-sized balls or press into cookie shapes, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until they’re golden and firm.

Once cooled, these treats are ready to go. Perfect for training rewards, post-ride snacks, or a little extra love from you to your horse.

11. Apple Cinnamon Cookies

Apple cinnamon cookies are soft, aromatic treats that smell as good as they taste—at least to your horse.

These cookies combine the natural sweetness of apples with the cozy spice of cinnamon, making them a comforting reward any time of year.

To make them, finely chop or grate a fresh apple and mix it with oats and a bit of flour. Add a pinch of cinnamon and a spoonful of unsweetened applesauce or molasses to bring everything together. 

Mix until the dough is thick and slightly sticky. Form into small cookie shapes and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20–25 minutes, or until the edges turn golden.

Let them cool completely before serving. These soft, flavorful cookies are perfect for horses with a sweet tooth. 

Just remember, a little goes a long way.

12. Molasses Muffins

Molasses Muffins are a moist, flavorful treat packed with rich sweetness and a soft texture your horse will love. 

They’re ideal for horses who enjoy softer snacks and make a great reward after a long ride or training session.

To make them, combine rolled oats and whole wheat flour in a bowl, then stir in a generous amount of molasses for that deep, sweet flavor. 

Add in grated carrots or chopped apples for texture and nutrition. Mix in a little water or applesauce until you get a thick batter. 

Scoop the mixture into mini muffin tins and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until they’re cooked through and lightly springy.

Once cooled, these soft, bite-sized muffins make a fun and easy way to treat your horse. Keep them in an airtight container and serve in moderation.

13. Peppermint and Flax Nibbles

Peppermint and Flax Nibbles are refreshing, bite-sized treats that pack flavor and nutrition into every nibble. 

The cool burst of peppermint makes them a fun choice for special occasions, while flaxseed adds a healthy dose of omega-3s and fiber.

To make them, start by mixing rolled oats, ground flaxseed, and a bit of flour in a bowl. Stir in crushed peppermint candies for flavor and a splash of water or applesauce to bind the mix. 

The dough should be firm but moldable. Roll into small balls or press into tiny shapes, then bake at 325°F (160°C) for 15–20 minutes until set.

Let them cool completely before serving. These treats are great for freshening breath and supporting coat health, all while giving your horse something tasty to munch on. 

Serve sparingly, especially if using candy.

14. No-Bake Banana Oat Balls

No-Bake Banana Oat Balls are the perfect treat when you want something fast, healthy, and oven-free. 

These soft, chewy snacks are made with simple ingredients and require zero baking, just mix, roll, and serve.

To make them, mash a ripe banana in a bowl until smooth. Stir in rolled oats and a spoonful of unsweetened peanut butter or applesauce to help bind the mixture. 

You can also add grated carrots, a sprinkle of flaxseed, or a touch of cinnamon for extra flavor and nutrients. 

Once combined, roll the mixture into small bite-sized balls and place them on a tray lined with parchment paper.

Pop them in the fridge for about 30 minutes to firm up. After that, they’re ready to serve. 

These treats are soft, nutritious, and perfect for horses who prefer gentle snacks.

How Often Should You Feed Treats?

Treats are fun, but like all good things, they should come in moderation.

As a rule, treats should make up less than 10% of your horse’s daily diet. One or two small treats a day is usually plenty for most horses. 

It’s best to use them as rewards during training, bonding moments, or to show a little love.

Overfeeding treats, especially sugary ones, can lead to weight gain, behavioral issues, or digestive trouble. 

And for horses with conditions like laminitis, insulin resistance, or Cushing’s, even small amounts of sugar can be risky.

Always consider your horse’s size, health, and activity level. When in doubt? Keep it small, keep it occasional, and make every bite count.

Related read: How Much Should a Horse Eat Daily? 

Homemade Horse Treats: Conclusion

Homemade horse treats are a fun and easy way to show your horse some love. You can choose the ingredients, skip the fillers, and make something your horse will enjoy. 

From soft muffins to crunchy cookies, there’s a recipe for every taste and season. Just remember, treats should be occasional, not a replacement for a balanced diet. 

Keep it safe, keep it simple, and always feed in moderation. Try a few recipes and see what your horse likes best. 

Happy baking and happy munching to your four-legged friend.