Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats, quick-cooking or old-fashioned
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, plus 2 tablespoons for adjustments
- 1/2 cup warm water, with up to 2 tablespoons additional for adjustments
- 1 medium mixing bowl, about 2 quarts
- 1 sturdy spoon or silicone spatula, about 10 inches long
- 1 flat work surface, at least 18 inches wide
- 1 measuring cup set, including 1-cup and 1/2-cup measures
- 1 tablespoon measuring spoon
- 1 clean dish towel or reusable silicone mat, about 18 by 12 inches
- 1 airtight food storage container, about 4 cups
- 1 small amount of food coloring, optional, about 1/4 teaspoon per dough portion
- 1 apron or washable shirt, optional but helpful
Instructions
- Cover your table with a reusable silicone mat, a clean dish towel, or a sheet of parchment paper.
- Measure 1 cup of rolled oats and 1 cup of all-purpose flour into the mixing bowl. Stir the dry ingredients for about 30 seconds.
- Measure 1/2 cup of warm water and keep up to 2 tablespoons of additional water nearby.
- Pour about half of the water into the bowl while stirring slowly. Add the remaining water in a thin stream.
- Pause for 1 minute to allow the mixture to absorb more water.
- Stir again until the mixture gathers into rough clumps. If dry patches remain, add 1 teaspoon of the reserved water.
- Turn the mixture onto the covered work surface. Press the loose pieces together, then knead by folding and pressing repeatedly for 3 to 5 minutes.
- If the dough feels dry, add 1 teaspoon of water; if it feels wet, dust with 1 teaspoon of reserved flour.
- If desired, divide the dough and add 1/4 teaspoon of food coloring to a portion, kneading until the color is mostly even.
- Shape the dough into small pieces for play, keeping them about 1 to 3 inches wide.
- Place each portion into the airtight container, optionally letting it rest for 10 minutes before use.
- Clean the bowl, spoon, and surface with warm soapy water.
Notes
This dough is a play material and not a snack. Supervise young children closely to prevent tasting or choking hazards. Store properly and discard if any unusual smell or texture develops.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
