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Little Lovebug Lentil Loops Why These Homemade Treats are Perfect for Your Hamster

Little Lovebug Lentil Loops

These crunchy Little Lovebug Lentil Loops are a nutritious and delightful treat for your hamster friends. Made with lentils, oats, and a hint of veggies, these loops are packed with protein and fiber to keep your little lovebugs healthy and happy. They’re easy to make, with ingredients you might already have in your pantry. Perfect for occasional snacking and hand-feeding to bond with your furry friend!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Hamster Treat

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Food processor or blender
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Rolling Pin
  • Small cookie cutter or knife

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup cooked lentils red or green, whichever you have on hand
  • 1/4 cup rolled oats
  • 2 tbsp whole wheat flour or oat flour for gluten-free
  • 1 tbsp finely grated carrot
  • 1 tsp ground flaxseed (optional, for a little extra fiber and omega-3
  • 1 tsp water adjust as needed
  • 1 tsp coconut oil optional, for a little shine and binding

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Lentils. If you haven’t already, cook the lentils until soft. Drain any excess water and let them cool. Now, give those lentils a gentle mash with a fork to break them up a bit. We don’t need a puree, just a rough mash to help the mixture bind together.
  • Blend the Dry Ingredients. In a food processor or blender, pulse the rolled oats until they turn into a coarse flour. Add this oat flour to a mixing bowl along with the whole wheat flour and ground flaxseed, if you’re using it.
  • Mix in the Veggies. Add the mashed lentils and grated carrot to the bowl with the dry ingredients. These little veggies will not only add nutrition but also make those loops extra tasty for your hammy.
  • Combine the Mixture. Add the coconut oil (if using) and mix everything together. Slowly add the water, a little at a time, until the mixture starts to come together into a dough. It should be a bit sticky but not too wet. If it's too dry, add a tiny bit more water.
  • Roll Out the Dough. Place the dough between two sheets of parchment paper to avoid sticking and roll it out to about 1/4 inch thickness. If you don't have a rolling pin, you can use a flat-bottomed glass or even just press it out with your hands.
  • Cut into Loops. Here comes the fun part! Use a small cookie cutter or a knife to cut out tiny loop shapes. If you want to get creative, you can even shape them into hearts or stars for your little lovebugs. Place these loops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  • Bake the Loops. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Bake the loops for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crunchy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, as ovens can vary.
  • Cool Completely. Once they’re baked to perfection, take them out of the oven and let them cool completely. The loops will harden as they cool, giving them that nice crunch that hamsters adore.
  • Store and Serve. Store these Little Lovebug Lentil Loops in an airtight container for up to two weeks. Serve as an occasional treat, just a couple of loops at a time to keep your hammy happy and healthy!