Quick and Easy No-Cook Play Dough – Make in Minutes!

I have fond memories of my mum making play dough for my brother and me when we were little. It kept us occupied for hours, for the cost of some flour, salt and food colouring.

In my career as a child care professional, I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve made play dough for the children, and I’ve tested all sorts of recipes. Some work better than others. My mum made some a while ago using coconut oil and a Thermomix. It was incredible! Soft, pliable and lasted for ages. But expensive!

So, for the more budget-conscious amongst us, this is my favourite ‘knock-up-a-quick-batch-on-a-rainy-day’ recipe for super-quick and easy no cook play dough!

Print Recipe

Quick and Easy No-Cook Play Dough

This play dough recipe doesn't involve cooking, so it's super quick and easy. It's not the longest-lasting dough, but it's fine if you're in a hurry or just can't be bothered with the effort of cooking!

Prep Time

5 minutes`

Servings

Ingredients

• 2 cups plain flour
• 1/2 cup salt
• 2 tbsp Cream of Tartar
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1.5 cups boiling water
• food colouring
• Fine Glitter - colour(s) of your choice
• glycerine optional
• 5 drops peppermint essence optional

Prep Time 5 minutes` Servings Ingredients 2 cups plain flour 1/2 cup salt 2 tbsp Cream of Tartar 2 tbsp vegetable oil 1.5 cups boiling water food colouring Fine Glitter - colour(s) of your choice glycerine optional 5 drops peppermint essence optional

Instructions

1. Put the flour, salt and cream of tartar in a large mixing bowl.

   
2. Add the oil.

   
3. Add food colouring to the boiling water, then add to the bowl slowly, mixing as you go (you may not need all of the water).

   
4. Keep mixing until the dough begins to come together in a ball.

   
5. Put the dough on a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth.

   
6. Add glitter until it's a shimmery as you like it!

   
7. Knead the glitter in thoroughly... and play!

   

Recipe Notes

• Be careful not to add too much water. If your dough seems a little dry, try adding a few drops of oil.
• You can add a few drops of glycerine if you want a slightly glossier dough.
• You could also add a few drops of peppermint essence or lavender essential oil for a lovely smell.
• Keep the dough wrapped tightly when not in use to stop it drying out.

If you home educate, or work with children in the early years, this activity provides the following learning opportunities:

If you enjoy trying my easy no-cook play dough, you might also like my Easy Edible Paint Recipe!