Play Dough(Nonedible)

Prep: 10 min Cook: 10 min

Create colorful, soft, and squishy play dough perfect for imaginative play and sensory activities. Suitable for children and craft enthusiasts alike, fostering creativity and fun.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup salt
  • 1 cup flour
  • 2 Tbsp. cream of tartar
  • 1 Tbsp. oil
  • 1 cup water
  • food coloring

Instructions

  1. Mix dry ingredients: salt, flour, and cream of tartar.
  2. Blend in the oil and water until well combined.
  3. Add food coloring and stir to distribute evenly.
  4. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens into play dough.
  5. Let the play dough cool completely before handling.
  6. Store in a Ziploc bag for future use.
  7. Use for playing, not eating.

Tips & Substitutions

To enhance the texture of your play dough, consider adding a teaspoon of glycerin for extra smoothness. If you don't have cream of tartar, you can substitute it with an equal amount of lemon juice or vinegar. Adjust the food coloring to your desired vibrancy, and remember, the fun is in experimenting with colors and combinations. For more engaging activities, explore making other craft items alongside this play dough.

Serving Suggestions

This play dough is perfect for arts and crafts activities. Pair it with cookie cutters, rolling pins, and various molds to inspire creativity in children. You can create themed play sessions, such as a bakery using your play dough alongside a recipe like Poticia-Nut Bread for a fun, imaginative experience. Encourage kids to build shapes and figures, enhancing their motor skills and creativity.

Storage & Reheating

Store your play dough in an airtight Ziploc bag or a sealed container at room temperature. It can last for several weeks if kept dry and away from moisture. If it starts to dry out, you can add a few drops of water and knead it to restore its consistency. For longer storage, consider refrigerating it, but be sure to let it come to room temperature before use.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Play Dough(Nonedible) contains roughly 222 calories, with 1g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (106% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 517mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).

222 kcal 11% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.8g 2% DV
Total Fat 4.6g 6% DV
Carbs 42.6g 15% DV
Fiber 0.3g 1% DV
Sugar 0g

Electrolytes

Sodium 517mg 22% DV
Potassium 5000mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Calcium 12.2mg 1% DV
Iron 2.6mg 14% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this play dough without food coloring?

Yes, you can make play dough without food coloring if you prefer a natural look. Alternatively, you can use natural coloring agents like beet juice or turmeric for some color without synthetic dyes. Just remember that the final color will depend on the amount you use.

What should I do if my play dough is too sticky?

If your play dough ends up too sticky, you can add a little more flour, a teaspoon at a time, while kneading until you reach the desired consistency. Ensure you mix thoroughly to avoid any lumps. This will help make it more manageable and enjoyable for play.

Is this play dough safe for kids?

While this play dough is non-toxic and safe to handle, it is not edible and should not be ingested. Always supervise young children during playtime to prevent them from putting it in their mouths. If you're looking for edible options, consider recipes for edible play dough available online.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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