Finding the perfect play dough recipe can be a challenge. It feels like there are a hundred different play dough recipes! Store-bought play dough is expensive, especially for the number of children who play with it, and the smell or texture is never quite right. After extensive experimentation, this play dough recipe is a clear winner. It feels great, can be colored and scented, and, stored properly, lasts for months. It only has a few simple ingredients found in most kitchens, and takes only a few minutes to make.
This play dough recipe is so simple, make a new batch of play dough for the classroom every month! Mix it up by adding kool-aid, cocoa powder, essential oils, or pumpkin pie spices! It’s fun to just make a plain batch, though. And being so simple, it’s easy to make a whole rainbow of the world’s best play dough recipe!
This play dough is irresistable because it is so soft (and easy for little hands), it lasts for ever, and the texture is not sticky or crumbly. Now, there are 2 “cons” to this play dough: it is a recipe that requires cooking, and it requires cream of tartar. But don’t let that stop you! The cooking part is quick, and large containers of the cream of tartar are available at most stores.
Providing a variety of colors invites students to come play! Their imagination opens up. And, since it is so easy to whip up a new batch, it doesn’t matter if the colors get mixed together while they play. Another bonus with this recipe – it is simple to make individual containers for students if health requirements require individual sensory play.
Providing cookie cutters in a number of sizes is a fantastic way to spur imagination and practice shapes at the same time! This student make a cut-out heart and filled it with another color. How smart!
So, here it is. Our #1 favorite, best play dough in the world recipe! 1 cup flour 1Tbsp cream of tartar 1/2 cup salt 1 cup water 2 Tbsp oil food coloring Mix all ingredients together, and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly. When the dough forms and pulls away from the sides of the pan, remove from heat. Knead the dough until it’s smooth!
Click HERE to print the play dough recipe.
Watch a video about this Play Dough Recipe!
I use this recipe with my class. We use an electric skillet. They measure all of the ingredients, and then I turn it on and stir with the kids at a safe distance. I also get cream or tarter in bulk from a nearby Mennonite community.
That's a great idea! I need to check on other sources for bulk cream of tartar. Thanks for the tip!