I’m always looking for new sensory experiences for Parker. It has taken years, but the kid finally appreciates a good play dough recipe. Our latest adventure? A Cake Mix Play Dough Recipe.
I only had plain yellow cake mixes downstairs, however they were plain yellow cake mixes that I either snagged for free or .25 each. Score! I’m going to share the general recipe with you and the changes I made to turn it into ‘lemon’ play dough. You could just follow the original recipe using a strawberry cake mix.
- In a large heavy bottomed pot, whisk together dry cake mix, flour, salt, jello, and cream of tartar. Add the oil and water. For a brighter color add a few drops of food coloring.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and a rough ball forms.
- Remove from heat, knead, adding a small amount of flour if dough is too sticky.
- Store in an air tight container or baggie.
Play dough provides such great tactile sensory experiences. You can add rice, or bird seed, or glitter, or……well, you decide!
He made cake mix play dough ‘snakes’ to make the letters of his name with. This kid gives this OT so much grief…he knows each and every button to push of hers. sigh.
Alphabet activities, tactile sensory activities, sweet smells too. All of it from a simple cake mix play dough recipe!
How long does this last? I would love to make some different ones for my sensory kids.
If you keep it wrapped up in between uses it should last okay. It does dry out a little faster than other doughs.
I love cake mixes too! My grandmother, who could make anything from scratch, developed a huge love for this convenience product. You can also use them to make cookies and bar cookies and breads.