Homemade playdough is a classic, must-have sensory activity that’s fun, easy to make, and endlessly customizable. Not only does it provide hours of entertainment, but it also helps kids develop their fine motor skills, creativity, and hand-eye coordination. With just a few kitchen ingredients, you can whip up a batch of soft, pliable playdough that’s safe and non-toxic. Follow this simple recipe to create your own batch of homemade playdough, and let the fun begin!
Homemade Playdough Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 cup of salt
- 2 tablespoons of cream of tartar
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 2 cups of water
- Food coloring (optional)
- Essential oils or extracts (optional for scent)
Instructions:
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large pot, combine 2 cups of flour, 1 cup of salt, and 2 tablespoons of cream of tartar. Stir until well mixed.
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Add Wet Ingredients: Add 2 cups of water and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil to the dry mixture. Stir until smooth. If you want to add color, mix in a few drops of food coloring now.
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Cook the Dough: Place the pot over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly. The dough will start to thicken. Continue stirring until it forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pot, which should take about 5 minutes.
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Cool and Knead: Remove the dough from the pot and let it cool for a few minutes. Once it’s cool enough to handle, knead it for a few minutes until smooth and elastic.
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Optional Scenting: If you’d like to add a scent, knead in a few drops of essential oil or an extract (like vanilla or peppermint) after the dough has cooled.
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Play and Store: The playdough is ready to use! Store it in an airtight container or ziplock bag to keep it soft for future play. It can last for several weeks if stored properly.
