Cloud dough is my favorite alternative to playdough. It has a similar texture but is soft and fluffier, making it a hit with the kids! Made with three ingredients that you likely already own, this cloud dough recipe is an easy way to help kids build their motor skills! If you’re looking for a cloud dough recipe, fine motor skills activity, or a sensory activity, then you have to try this recipe!
And, make sure to check out this homemade playdough recipe! It’s an easy 10-minute recipe that turns out even better than the store bought stuff!
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What You’ll Need For This Cloud Dough Recipe
How To Make This Homemade Cloud Dough Recipe
1. Prepare the base
Pour 1 cup of conditioner into the bowl.
2. Add the starch
- Add 1 cup of starch and mix.
- Add the second cup of starch and continue mixing.
3. Knead the dough
- Switch to kneading with your hands.
- The texture should become soft, fluffy, and non-sticky.
4. Adjust the texture
- If it’s sticky → add a little more starch.
- If it’s crumbly → add 1–2 teaspoons of conditioner.
5. Color the dough (important step)
You may wear gloves to avoid staining your hands.
- Once you reach the perfect consistency, divide the dough into several portions (depending on how many colors you want).
- Add 1–3 drops of food coloring into each portion.
- Knead until the color becomes even. For a pastel shade, use one drop. For a brighter color, add 2-3 drops.
How To Store This Cloud Dough
- Store in an airtight container or zip-top bag.
- Keep in a cool, dry place.
- Stays fresh for 1–2 weeks depending on the conditioner used.
If the cloud dough dries out, add 1 teaspoon of conditioner and knead again.
PrintCloud Dough Recipe
Learn how to make soft, fluffy cloud dough with just 3 simple ingredients! This easy sensory play recipe is perfect for hours of moldable, mess-friendly fun.
- Prep Time: 15
- Total Time: 15
- Category: DIY, Playdough
- Method: Step-by-Step
Materials
- 1 cup conditioner (white, inexpensive)
- 2 cups cornstarch or potato starch
- Food coloring — 1–3 drops
- Medium mixing bowl
- Gloves (optional, to avoid staining hands)
Instructions
1. Prepare the base
- Pour 1 cup of conditioner into the bowl.
2. Add the starch
- Add 1 cup of starch and mix.
- Add the second cup of starch and continue mixing.
3. Knead the dough
- Switch to kneading with your hands.
- The texture should become soft, fluffy, and non-sticky.
4. Adjust the texture
- If it’s sticky → add a little more starch.
- If it’s crumbly → add 1–2 teaspoons of conditioner.
5. Color the dough (important step)
You may wear gloves to avoid staining your hands.
- Once you reach the perfect consistency, divide the dough into several portions (depending on how many colors you want).
- Add 1–3 drops of food coloring into each portion.
- Knead until the color becomes even:
- For a pastel shade: 1 drop.
- For a brighter color: 2–3 drops.
