Chemistry is the mixture of different materials to make new things. You can watch chemical reactions happen right in your kitchen as you make a playful, edible treat: playdough! See below for multiple recipes to help you make playdough at home.
Activity best for children 18 months and up, with adult supervision
Recipe 1: Whipped Cream Playdough
Materials
- Tub of whipped topping
- 1/2 a box of cornstarch
- 2 Tablespoons of olive oil
Directions
Step 1
Place the whipped topping in a bowl. Fold in the cornstarch until the mixture is crumbly.
Step 2
Drizzle olive oil over the lumps
Step 3
Mix and work the dough into a ball.
Recipe 2: Oatmeal Playdough
Materials
- 1/2 cup uncooked oatmeal
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 flour
Directions
Stir all ingredients together in a bowl. All done!
Recipe 3: Chocolate Playdough
Materials
- 1/2 cup butter or margarine
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons water
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 2 bowls
Directions
Step 1
Mix together the sugar, brown sugar, and butter or margarine.
Step 2
In a separate bowl mix together 3 tablespoons of water and 2 teaspoons of baking powder. Then, add this to the sugar mixture.
Step 3
Mix in all of the remaining ingredients. If it feels too sticky, add in a little extra flour.
Recipe 4: Marshmallow Playdough
Materials
- Marshmallows
- Peanut or almond butter
Directions
Step 1
Prepare to get messy! Spread the peanut or almond butter onto the marshmallow.
Step 2
Squeeze and squish the marshmallow covered in peanut or almond butter in your hand for 3-5 minutes.
Step 3
You should have a more solid mixture now—this is your playdough!
Recipe 5: Vanilla Playdough
Materials
- 1 cup of pre-made frosting (any color will do!)
- 2 3/4 cups of powdered sugar
Directions
Slowly mix ½ cup of powdered sugar to the frosting at a time. That’s it!
Be sure to share your edible playdough with us on Instagram by tagging @sdcdm320.
Do you have questions about this activity? Email Education@sdcdm.org