Can I make this without an ice cream maker?

Absolutely! The best part about this homemade snow ice cream is that you don't need an ice cream maker or any special equipment. The snow itself provides the icy texture, so all you need is a large mixing bowl and a spoon.

What if I don't have regular milk?

You can use any milk you have on hand. Whole milk provides the richest flavor, but sweetened condensed milk, coconut milk, almond milk, evaporated milk, or any other milk alternative works fine. Each creates a slightly different flavor and texture, which makes it fun to experiment next time.

How much snow do I actually need?

The recipe calls for 6 cups of snow, but the texture of the snow varies depending on weather conditions. Light, fluffy snow from a fresh snowfall may require up to 8 cups to achieve the desired consistency, while heavy, wet snow might only need 4-5 cups. Start with 6 and adjust as needed.

Can I store leftovers for the next day?

Unfortunately, no. Homemade snow ice cream should be eaten immediately and doesn't store well. Once it melts and refreezes, it won't have the same creamy texture. Think of it like snow cones - best enjoyed fresh!

Is snow ice cream safe to eat?

As long as you collect fresh, clean snow, it's generally safe. Avoid the first snow if you live in an urban area (as it can collect atmospheric pollutants), and never eat yellow snow or snow that's been on the ground for several days. Also, avoid snow that's been walked on or driven on or "used" by pets or other animals, obviously.

How to Make Snow Ice Cream (Easy Recipe)

Description

Snow Ice Cream is a fun, nostalgic winter treat that many people remember from childhood. Recipes can vary depending on where you’re from, but this version is a classic, simple recipe that anyone can make. With just milk, sugar, and vanilla mixed into fresh, ice-cold snow, it’s an easy way to turn a snowy day into a little bit of winter magic.

Ingredients

Scale

6 Cups Fresh Clean Snow
2/3 Cup Milk
4 Tablespoons White Granulated Sugar
1/2 Tablespoon Vanilla Extract
1/8 Teaspoon Salt (optional)
Sprinkles (optional)

Instructions

Collect your snow in a large mixing bowl.
Grab another mixing bowl and combine the milk, sugar, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
Pour the milk mixture over the snow and mix until fully combined and the sugar is dissolved.
Add sprinkles (if desired) and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Equipment

Mixing Bowls

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Measuring Cups and Spoons

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Whisk

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Notes

Choose Snow Wisely. Always use fresh, clean snow from a recent snowfall, and scoop it from an area away from roads, driveways, or anywhere pets or animals might have been. You’ll need several inches of snow to gather enough for this recipe, and one good snowstorm usually gives you plenty of the good stuff to work with.
Serve immediately. Unlike regular ice cream, snow ice cream is best served right away. Scoop it into bowls and add your own toppings – rainbow sprinkles, chocolate chips, chocolate syrup, fresh fruit, or any other ice cream toppings you love. Some families even use Kool-Aid packets to create different colors and flavors.
Adjust the consistency: Everyone prefers a slightly different texture with this classic dessert. Fresh, fluffy snow makes it lighter, while heavier snow creates a denser ice cream, so add more or less snow until it gets to the right consistency, depending on what your family likes.
Experiment with Milk Options: Regular (whole) milk is the best choice IMHO, but you can absolutely change it up. Sweetened condensed milk makes it extra rich, and almost like traditional ice cream, coconut milk adds a fun twist, and heavy cream makes it extra decadent. Some old-fashioned recipes call for evaporated milk or even raw eggs, but I’d personally skip the eggs.
Get Creative with Flavors: The basic recipe is delicious on its own, but it’s also fun to play with. Try adding chocolate syrup to the milk mixture for chocolate snow ice cream, stir in chocolate chips, or top it with fresh fruit. You can even set up a little topping bar and let everyone customize their own bowl.
Timing Is Everything: This is one of those recipes you can’t make ahead or save for later. Unlike store-bought ice cream, snow ice cream doesn’t store well and really needs to be enjoyed right away. So as soon as the snow forms, grab a big bowl and start making your snow ice cream!
No snow? The main ingredient in this recipe is obviously having enough snow, but if you live in the deep South like me but still want to make something like homemade snow ice cream, you can use shaved ice as a substitute. It’s not going to be the same, but you can pretend and still have so much fun with your kids.

Prep Time: 5
Category: Dessert
Method: Hand Mixed
Cuisine: American