How to Make Gingerbread Playdough

Gingerbread playdough is a fun, sensory activity that combines the festive scents of the holiday season with hands-on creativity. Learn how to make gingerbread playdough, with this simple, non-toxic recipe. Offering a way to keep little hands busy while embracing the holiday spirit.

The one thing I love the most about this recipe is that it is easy to make using ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen! Perfect for a last minute holiday activity. Here’s how to make gingerbread playdough and some ideas for using it.

Ingredients to Make Gingerbread Playdough

To make gingerbread play dough, you will need:

• 1 cup of all-purpose flour
• 1/2 scant cup of salt (just slightly less than 1/2 cup)
• 2 teaspoons of cream of tartar
• 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon of ground ginger
• 1 cup of boiling water
• 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil

Instructions to Make Gingerbread Playdough

1.Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, cinnamon, and ginger. These spices will give your dough the delightful gingerbread scent.

2.Add the Wet Ingredients
Boil the water in a tea kettle and gently pour into the dry ingredients. Drizzle the oil on top of the water to dry to disperse it a bit.

3.Stir the Dough
Stir the dough to incorporate the ingredients. It will become a bit tough to stir, but continue until the dry ingredients are absorbed.

4.Knead the Dough
Transfer the mixture onto a clean surface and knead it with your hands until smooth and pliable. If the dough feels sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency.

Your gingerbread play dough is ready to use!

Creative Ways to Use Gingerbread Playdough

Making gingerbread playdough is just the beginning! Here are a few creative ideas for how to use it:

1. Create “Cookies”:
   Roll out the dough and use cookie cutters in festive shapes like gingerbread men, stars, or snowflakes.
2. Decorate with Beads or Buttons:
   Use beads, small buttons, or other craft supplies to “decorate” your creations.
3. Holiday Role Play:
   Set up a pretend bakery where kids can “sell” their gingerbread creations.
4. Sensory Play Stations:
   Pair the dough with small wooden rolling pins, silicone molds, or textured stamps for an engaging sensory activity.

Why It’s a Festive Favorite

Gingerbread playdough offers a unique blend of sensory fun and holiday cheer. Its warm, spicy scent evokes the coziness of baking without any of the mess. Plus, making it is a hands-on activity that can become a cherished holiday tradition for families.

This DIY is also a fantastic alternative to store-bought options. By making it yourself, you can avoid artificial scents and preservatives, making it a safer choice for kids.

Storage Tips

To keep your gingerbread playdough fresh:

• Use an airtight container: Prevent the dough from drying out by storing it in an airtight bag or container. (We love to use old Talenti containers to store playdough)
• Rehydrate as needed: If the dough becomes a bit dry, knead in a teaspoon of water or oil to revive its texture.

Making gingerbread playdough is a fun, festive, and budget-friendly activity that captures the spirit of the holidays. From the delicious scent to the endless creative possibilities, this homemade play dough is sure to become a seasonal favorite for your family. So gather your ingredients and make some gingerbread play dough!