Momma's Brownies
Previously, we were spending about $10 for a 16oz bag of Bil-Jac, which is very much alike in recipe but with added fillers and preservatives, so that it can sit on a shelf. This recipe makes about 32oz. and cost about $2.50. It should be noted also that Bil-Jac boast 25% chicken liver per treat and these are about 90%, which may be why the dogs go nuts for them.
We began making this fresh version and our dogs are in love! We're calling them Momma's Brownies since the batter and outcome are brownie-like. I'll warn you, they do not smell as yummy cooking as a regular brownie! They should be kept refrigerated or frozen as they're a fresh food. These will keep for about a week in the refrigerator or 6 mo. in a freezer.
Our preference is to cook just until they lose the red color and turn brownish-gray. Once cooled they're firm, but soft and perfect for training. When training you want something low in calories, soft enough to eat quickly and something which does not crumble to distract and cause them to want to eat the fallen crumbs.
Ingredients
- 1.5 - 2.0 lb. chicken or beef liver, raw
- 2 cups all purpose wheat flour, sifted
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 3/4 cups water or chicken/beef stock or bone broth
- 2 tsp. cooking oil (we use bacon grease)
- 1/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°.
- In a blender or food processor, blend the raw liver until smooth then pour into a mixing bowl.
- Add the liquids, oil and beaten eggs.
- Gradually mix in the flour.
- Pour mixture into a cookie sheet with 1/2 in. sides (lined with parchment paper or lightly greased).
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until slightly turned in color (longer for a hard cookie)
- Allow pan to cool then cut into cubes.
- Refrigerate or freeze
The above blend is 1.0-1.5 calories per treat. You may substitute white flour for wheat but it is not best for dogs. Try various tasty additives in place of the cheese. Rosemary is a good herb to add or garlic. Try applesauce, cranberry, banana, pumpkin or pureed baby food. Dogs usually love a stinky treat the best and this one has been a hit at our house!
