So let me take you back for a second… Picture Philly in the middle of a quiet snowstorm, one of those afternoons when the whole world feels hushed, wrapped in white. I must’ve been 9 or 10, bundled up in a hand-me-down jacket, mittens barely keeping the snow out, and this ridiculous red scarf my Nonna insisted on wrapping around my neck like a boa constrictor. I was freezing… but also totally hyped, because snow meant one thing: snow ice cream. Not just any ice cream, though. We’re talkin’ the old fashioned snow ice cream recipe—the kind that doesn’t come from a carton but from the backyard, a big metal bowl, and a whole lotta love.
(If you’re into other nostalgic treats, check out my strawberry margarita recipe and this creamy dream of a pistachio cream recipe. Both are crowd-pleasers in their own right.)
My mom would holler from the kitchen window, “Go scoop the clean stuff! Not the yellow snow, Mikey!” And off I’d go with a big ol’ grin and a stainless steel bowl. This stuff was a legit event in our house. We didn’t need fancy machines or store-bought anything. Just a few humble pantry staples and the magic that came from snowflakes and patience.
These days, whenever winter rolls around and snow blankets our little street here in California (ok, not really—but hey, we travel!), I can’t help but crave that creamy, sweet, snow-kissed bite. And now? I make this easy snow ice cream recipe with my nieces. We gather up the fluffiest snow, stir in some vanilla, milk, and sugar, and watch their faces light up like it’s the first snowfall of the year.
This recipe is fast—like, “done in the time it takes to find matching mittens” fast. We’re talkin’ 5 minutes to whip up what might just be the best snow ice cream recipe you’ve ever tasted. You can even switch it up by using condensed milk if you’re feelin’ extra indulgent. Heck, I’ve done it with chocolate almond milk before, and it was chef’s kiss.
So whether you’re trying this for the first time or bringing back a childhood memory, this one’s for you. From my snow-dusted heart to your spoon.
FAQs
What ingredients do you need for snow ice cream?
You just need five basics: fresh clean snow (or shaved ice if that’s all you’ve got), milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt. Simple stuff, but when it all comes together? Magic.
How to make snow with 3 ingredients?
Want it real stripped down? Go for milk, sugar, and snow. That’s it. You can skip the vanilla and salt, though I recommend at least the vanilla if you’ve got it!
Is it safe to make ice cream out of snow?
Totally safe—as long as you’re using clean, freshly fallen snow. I always say go for the top layer, away from roads or places with pollution. Or, just make shaved ice indoors if you’re unsure.
How do you make Paula Deen’s snow cream?
Paula’s version usually calls for condensed milk, which makes it extra rich and creamy. Swap your regular milk for sweetened condensed milk in this recipe and you’re good to go!
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