Jello Playdough

Playdough is a very favorite past time at our house.  Everyone loves to dig their hands into the stuff and play to their heart's content.

I always have to prep myself for playdough time though.

Because it gets everywhere.  Seriously how does it get clear across the room and in cupboards but somehow it does!  So every time it comes out I have to prep myself for the mess.

But man it sure is magical stuff.  The kiddos played for a solid hour with this stuff.  They made all sorts of food for each other, animals, and shapes.  It was so much fun.

And guess what?...this is by far the best homemade playdough recipe I have found.  The consistency was very close to the real stuff, plus the Jello makes it smell fantastic.  This is another kid pleaser for spring break.

Jello Playdough

(click here for printable version)


1 1/2 cups white flour + more for kneading
2 tbsp salt
2 tbsp cream of tartar
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 cup warm water
1 3oz package Jello (any flavor)

1.  In a medium saucepan, combine all ingredients.  Stir until thoroughly incorporated.  Put saucepan on stove over medium low heat.

2.  Stir continuously until mixture starts to thicken and forms into a big ball.  Remove pan from heat and pour mixture onto wax paper.  Cool completely.

3.  Once cool, knead with additional flour until dough becomes smooth and not sticky (I had to add quite a bit of flour but just keep working with it).  You can add food coloring or even glitter at this step, just knead it in.

4.  Store in airtight container in refrigerator and it will keep for several days.  Enjoy playing!

Source: Pinterest via Playdough Recipe