Super easy play dough recipe

At ages 6 and 4, my kids have yet to outgrow the play dough phase. In fact, I’m not sure I’ve quite outgrown it myself. It’s one of those things I can do with my kids that is enjoyable for all of us. Below is the recipe I’ve been using for a while.

I start by giving each kid their own mixing bowl. Getting to pour and mix is half the fun of the play dough experience for kids, and giving each kid their own bowl allows you to bypass the part where you have to manage turn taking.

I add the following to each bowl:

• About 1.5 cups of flour
• About half a cup of salt
• About a tablespoon of olive oil (or other kind of oil)
• 1-2 teaspoons cream of tartar (not 100% necessary, but adds some elasticity)

While the kids mix those ingredients in their bowls, I heat up some water (about 1-2 cups) to near boiling temperature. Once the ingredients are mixed and the water is hot, pour a little bit of water at a time into the flour mixture and stir. Once you reach play dough consistency, you are done!

If you have food coloring handy, you can make a variety of colors — which will eventually turn into one large pile of brown dough, if your kids are like mine. Otherwise, cookie cutters, other baking supplies, or glitter (if you are brave) can add some fun to the experience.