This pumpkin play dough recipe is perfect for fall sensory fun at home or in the classroom! It’s a delightful fall sensory idea that kids of all ages will enjoy.
My family loves this stay soft play dough recipe. We’ve had batches last literally for years! Today I’m sharing a different take on the recipe that includes pumpkin pie spice for a fun fall feeling. I hope you enjoy!
Every parent and teacher knows that kids love play dough. They also know that kids usually do a poor job of putting the play dough away, which leads to a lot of waste.
That’s why I prefer to make my own play dough instead of buying it. Making play dough is super easy and inexpensive, plus I’ve found that homemade play dough tends to stay soft longer than the store bought stuff.
Make sure to grab these free printable fall play dough mats while you’re here! They’re perfect for using with this pumpkin spice play dough.
Ingredients for pumpkin spice play dough
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- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup salt
- 2 tablespoons cream of tartar
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin pie spice
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1½ cups water
- Orange gel food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for fragrance)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is this play dough edible?
No. While it’s made with household ingredients, the high salt content makes it unsuitable for eating. Additionally, it can become contaminated from play surfaces and little hands.
How long does homemade play dough last?
When stored in an airtight container, it should remain soft for two months or more. Your mileage may vary and all that, but our play dough lasts for a very long time.
Can I omit the food coloring?
Yes. The play dough will work just as well without food coloring, it will just be a light brown color instead of a vibrant orange .
Why is my play dough sticky?
If your play dough is sticky, knead in a little more flour until it reaches the desired consistency.
Can I make different colors of play dough?
Yes. Divide the dough into portions after cooking and knead in different gel food colors for a variety of seasonal colors.
How to make pumpkin play dough for fall
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the flour, salt, cream of tartar, and pumpkin pie spice.
Add the vegetable oil, water, vanilla extract (if using), and several drops of orange gel food coloring. Food colorings vary in intensity, so add color until you’re satisfied.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and forms a soft ball.
Remove from the heat and transfer the dough to a clean work surface. Work carefully - it will be very hot!
Allow it to cool for about 5 minutes, until it's cool enough to touch.
Knead the play dough until smooth and elastic. If the dough feels sticky, knead in a small amount of additional flour.
Store in an airtight container or zip-top bag until ready to use. Make sure you don’t seal the container up until the play dough is fully cooled so you don’t get condensation.
Pair with play dough tools like a rolling pin and cookie cutters for sensory fun! Although metal cookie cutters are shown in this post, it's safer to give your children plastic cookie cutters or metal cutters with a rubber gasket.
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Storage Instructions
Store in an airtight container or sealed zip-top bag.
Keep at room temperature.
Properly stored play dough can stay soft for months.
If it begins to dry out, knead in a few drops of water.
Tips & Variations
Add cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, or star anise nearby to enhance the fall aroma during playtime.
Use pumpkin-shaped cookie cutters, rolling pins, stamps, or leaf cutters for seasonal fun.
Add biodegradable glitter for extra sparkle.
Knead in a little extra flour if the dough becomes sticky.
Adult supervision is recommended for young children. Although it is made with common kitchen ingredients and the flour is cooked, this play dough is not intended for eating.
I hope you enjoy this pumpkin spice DIY fall play dough! Make sure to check out free printables for fall by visiting the posts below:
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