3-Ingredient Salt Dough Recipe
Introduction
This simple 3-ingredient salt dough recipe is perfect for crafting fun, durable projects with kids or for homemade ornaments. Made with just flour, salt, and water, it’s easy to prepare and can be air dried or baked to harden.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
- 1 cup Morton salt
- 1 cup water
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt thoroughly.
- Step 2: Gradually add water a little at a time while mixing, until a dough ball forms. Using a dough whisk can help, especially with children.
- Step 3: Knead the dough for 7-10 minutes until it reaches a smooth, firm, Play-Doh-like consistency. Add a bit more water if the dough is too dry, depending on humidity.
- Step 4: Store any unused dough in a Ziploc bag or airtight container to keep it from drying out.
- Step 5: To air dry, place shaped pieces on a screen so air can reach both sides, or turn them regularly. Let them dry at room temperature for at least 48 hours until rock hard and white.
- Step 6: To bake, preheat the oven to 250℉. Arrange pieces on an oiled baking sheet.
- Step 7: Bake for about 30 minutes per 1/4 inch thickness, turning pieces frequently for even drying. If any puff up, poke a small hole to release air. Allow to cool completely before handling.
Tips & Variations
- Try adding a few drops of food coloring before kneading for colored dough.
- Use gluten-free flour if you prefer a gluten-free version.
- For quicker drying, use the baking method instead of air drying.
- If dough feels sticky, dust hands and surface lightly with flour while kneading.
Storage
Store unused salt dough in an airtight container or sealed plastic bag at room temperature to prevent drying. Finished crafts can be kept at room temperature; if air dried, they remain sturdy and long-lasting. Store baked items in a dry place. If needed, reheat baked items briefly to remove any moisture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use this dough for ornaments?
Yes, salt dough is ideal for homemade ornaments and crafts. Just shape, dry or bake, and then decorate as desired.
How long does salt dough take to dry completely?
Air drying typically takes at least 48 hours, depending on size and thickness. Baking can reduce drying time significantly, generally about 30 minutes per 1/4 inch thickness.
Print3-Ingredient Salt Dough Recipe
This simple 3-Ingredient Salt Dough recipe is a versatile and easy-to-make craft dough made with just flour, salt, and water. Perfect for kids’ crafts or homemade ornaments, this dough can be air-dried or baked to harden, creating durable and paintable shapes with a smooth, firm texture similar to Play-Doh.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 to 90 minutes depending on thickness
- Total Time: 2 days (including air drying time) or 40 minutes to 1.5 hours if baking
- Yield: Variable, depending on size of creations but made from 2 cups flour batch
- Category: Craft
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
- 1 cup Morton salt
- 1 cup water
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour with 1 cup of salt. Gradually add water a little at a time while mixing continuously to form a cohesive ball of dough. Using a dough whisk can help make mixing easier, especially for children.
- Knead Dough: Knead the dough on a flat surface for 7-10 minutes until it develops a smooth and firm consistency similar to Play-Doh. Add small amounts of water if the dough feels too dry, considering the humidity levels.
- Store Dough: If not using immediately, store the salt dough in a Ziploc bag or airtight container to prevent drying out and keep it pliable for future crafting.
- Air Dry Option: To air dry your creations, place shaped pieces on a screen to allow airflow on both sides, or turn them regularly to ensure even drying. Leave them at room temperature for at least 48 hours until they become rock hard with a white, limestone-like appearance.
- Bake Option: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C) and arrange the salt dough pieces on an oiled baking sheet. Bake according to their thickness—about 30 minutes per quarter-inch. Turn pieces frequently to dry evenly and poke any puffed areas with a pin to release trapped air. Bake until the surface turns light golden brown. Once baked, allow pieces to cool completely before handling.
Notes
- Adjust water amount according to humidity to get the right dough consistency.
- For even drying during air drying, use a screen or turn pieces regularly.
- When baking, watch for puffing and pierce gently with a toothpick to avoid air pockets.
- This dough can be painted after drying or baking.
- Store unused dough tightly to maintain moisture.
Keywords: salt dough, 3 ingredient dough, kids crafts, homemade ornaments, easy craft dough, air dry dough
