Drink Mix Play Dough

Kool-Aid Play Dough

This may possibly be the first recipe for something inedible on Cooking with Anne. Actually, the truth is that it's completely edible, just not very palate pleasing. It is, however, pleasing to little hands. My kids come home each day from school reminding me that there are "30-some days left of school!". Their little hearts are soaring ... mine, not so much.

I do love having them home, but they need to be kept busy in constructive ways or complete mayhem ensues. This is one of my favorite "projects" and one of theirs, as well. We don't drink Kool-Aid in our house, or any other drink mix, for that matter. There's too much sugar involved and artificial colorings wreak havoc with little people; especially mine.

Kool-Aid is excellent, though, for coloring and scenting play dough! The kids can help with this, but my own don't have it in themselves to wait for it to cool, so I always make ahead and store it in the refrigerator until they want to play with it. I set it out an hour ahead of time as it's easier to mold at room temperature, then I hand over the rolling pin, cookie cutters, butter knives and the like and they create to their hearts' content. I've been making this for over 20 years and it never fails to please!

Drink Mix Play Dough
Makes 1 color of dough
Printable Recipe

1 cup all-purpose flour, sifted
1/2 cup table salt
1 packet Kool-Aid or other non-sweetened drink mix - whichever color/flavor combo you like
1 cup boiling water
1 teaspoon vegetable oil

1. Stir together flour, salt and drink mix until well blended.
2. Stir oil into boiling water (not just hot, it MUST be boiling) and pour slowly over flour mixture.
3. Stir constantly until a soft dough forms. Mix completely and let stand for a few minutes as the dough tightens up.
4. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator until needed for up to 3 months.
5. Bring to room temperature before play time. Return to refrigerator when done using.