Play Dough(Not To Eat!)
Create colorful, soft play dough perfect for children's crafting and sensory play. Easy to make with simple ingredients, it offers endless creative fun for kids of all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring water and salt to a boil.
- Add food coloring to the boiling water.
- Remove from heat and add the vegetable oil, powdered alum, and flour.
- Knead until smooth.
- Test the play dough for temperature before children handle it.
- Store in a sealed container.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vibrant color, use gel food coloring instead of liquid, as it provides a more intense hue. If you don’t have powdered alum, you can substitute it with cream of tartar, though the texture may vary slightly. Always ensure the play dough is cool before letting children handle it to prevent burns. Kneading is key for achieving that smooth, pliable texture.
Serving Suggestions
This play dough can be a great activity for kids' birthday parties or playdates. Consider pairing it with themed cookie cutters or molds for added fun. For a seasonal twist, use colors inspired by Beets With Pineapple or Christmas Bazaar Cranberry Relish to create festive shapes. Always supervise young children during play.
Storage & Reheating
Store the play dough in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag to keep it fresh and prevent it from drying out. It can last for several weeks when stored properly. If it starts to dry out, you can add a few drops of water and knead it again to restore its consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Play Dough(Not To Eat!) contains roughly 39 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1788mg per serving (78% of the Daily Value).
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 use this recipe to make edible play dough?
This play dough is not meant for consumption, as it contains salt and alum, which can be harmful if ingested. For an edible alternative, consider recipes that use peanut butter or other food-safe ingredients, ensuring they are safe for children to eat.
How can I make the play dough softer?
If your play dough turns out too stiff, try adding a small amount of water, a teaspoon at a time, and knead it until you achieve the desired softness. If it remains hard, it may need more vegetable oil to help with the texture.
Can I store the play dough in the fridge?
Storing the play dough in the refrigerator is not generally necessary, but it can help prolong its freshness. If you choose to refrigerate it, ensure it’s in an airtight container to prevent it from hardening. Let it come to room temperature before use.
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).