Homemade Playdough in Minutes
This easy playdough recipe comes together in just 10 minutes and yields a soft, smooth, and colorful dough that kids love.
- Prep5 min
- Cook5 min
- Total10 min
- DifficultyEasy
- Servings4
Forget store-bought playdough that dries out too fast. This homemade version is incredibly soft, lasts for weeks when stored properly, and you can make it in any color you want.
The recipe uses simple pantry staples and a quick stovetop method. Just whisk, cook, and knead – it's that easy. Perfect for a rainy day activity or a classroom project.
Ingredients
Servings
Converted amounts are rounded.
Method
- In a medium saucepan, combine the flour, salt, and alum. Add the water and oil and whisk until smooth. Stir in enough gel food coloring to reach your desired color intensity.
- Place the saucepan over medium-low heat and cook, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until the mixture thickens and forms a dough.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead in 2–3 tablespoons of additional flour until the dough is smooth and no longer sticky.
- Let the playdough cool completely, then store in an airtight container at room temperature.
💡 Tips
- For vibrant colors, use gel food coloring instead of liquid drops.
- If the dough is too sticky after cooking, knead in a little more flour.
- Store in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap to keep it soft for weeks.
Inspired by a recipe from My Kitchen Escapades