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3-Ingredient Salt Dough Recipe

4.6 from 132 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
  • 1 cup Morton salt
  • 1 cup water

Instructions

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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