Easy baked maple veggie bars using carrots and greens. A simple winter treat for rabbits and small pets.
Safety note
Introduce new foods gradually and speak with your veterinarian before making major changes to your pet's diet.
Ingredients
- 2 cups finely grated carrots
- 1 cup chopped leafy greens such as parsley or romaine
- 3/4 cup oat flour
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon
Instructions
Grate the carrots: Wash and dry the carrots, then grate them on the fine side of a box grater until you have two packed cups. Place the grated carrots in the mixing bowl.
Prep the greens: Chop the leafy greens into small pieces about the size of rice grains. Add one cup of the chopped greens to the bowl with the grated carrots.
Mix the dry ingredients: Add the oat flour and ground flaxseed to the bowl with the vegetables. Stir with a wooden spoon until the dry ingredients are evenly distributed among the carrots and greens.
Add the wet ingredients: Pour in the maple syrup and applesauce. Stir everything together until a thick, slightly sticky dough forms that holds together when pressed.
Press into the pan: Line the baking pan with parchment paper. Scoop the dough into the pan and press it firmly and evenly with the back of a spoon or your hands until it forms a flat layer about half an inch thick.
Bake the bars: Place the pan in a preheated 350 degree oven and bake for 25 minutes until the edges feel firm and the top is lightly golden.
Cool and cut: Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely on a rack. Once cool, lift out the slab using the parchment and cut into 12 small bars with a sharp knife.
Practical benefits
- Turns common winter vegetables into a convenient, portionable treat
- Provides a different texture from fresh produce
Serving guidance
Start with one small bar per day for a rabbit or guinea pig and adjust based on your pet's size and appetite. Major diet changes should be discussed with a veterinarian.
Storage
Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days Freeze individually wrapped bars for up to two months and thaw as needed
Substitutions
Swap parsley for other safe greens like cilantro or dandelion leaves Use finely grated apple in place of some of the carrot if preferred
Foods to avoid
Do not feed to pets with known sensitivities to any listed ingredients.
Recipe answers
Rabbits, Small Pets recipe FAQ
Can this treat replace my rabbit's regular diet?
No. Pawdishy recipes are general recipe inspiration and should not replace a complete regular diet unless your veterinarian gives that guidance.
How should I introduce this recipe?
Start with a small amount beside regular food, introduce one new recipe at a time, and watch for appetite, stool, skin, or behavior changes.
What should I check before serving?
Check the ingredient list, serving guidance, storage instructions, substitutions, and foods-to-avoid warning before preparing the recipe.
Sources
Reference notes
Can this replace a regular diet?
No. Pawdishy recipes are general recipe inspiration and should not replace a complete regular diet unless your veterinarian gives that guidance.