Learn how to make old-fashioned snow ice cream and start a new winter tradition with your children. This quick, family-friendly recipe comes together in about 5 minutes using just milk, maple syrup, and a bowl of clean fresh snow.
On the first big snowfall each year we keep a simple family ritual: scoop a bowl of fluffy snow and turn it into snow ice cream, then add entirely too many sprinkles. It’s an easy, joyful way to celebrate the season together.
Making snow ice cream is one of our kids’ favorite winter activities. Right after a snowstorm someone races outside to gather fresh, undisturbed snow while the rest of us whisk together milk and maple syrup, then add a touch of vanilla and a pinch of salt for balance.
That’s all there is to it — simple, fast, and a lot of fun.
Next time try another cozy winter favorite from our kitchen: homemade cocoa mix.
This post may include affiliate links; I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
What you need to make snow ice cream
Ingredients
- Milk – Whole milk or heavy cream gives the richest texture. For a dairy-free alternative, use your preferred plant milk.
- Maple syrup – I prefer maple syrup for natural sweetness, though granulated sugar works fine as well.
- Vanilla extract (optional) – A little vanilla elevates the flavor, but it’s optional if you don’t have it on hand.
- Salt (optional) – A pinch enhances the other flavors.
- Snow – About 8 heaping cups of fresh, clean snow.
How to make ice cream out of snow
Prep – Scoop 8 heaping cups of clean, undisturbed snow into a large mixing bowl. Try to collect snow that hasn’t been walked on and that looks light and fluffy.
Mix – In a medium bowl whisk together 1 cup milk, 1/2 cup maple syrup, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
Add the snow – Pour the milk mixture over the snow and fold gently with a spatula until the liquid is evenly incorporated and the texture is creamy but still slightly crystalline.
Tips for success
For best results – Because snow melts quickly, prepare the milk mixture first and then scoop the snow just before combining. Work briskly to keep the texture light and fluffy.
Avoid over-mixing so you retain the snow’s delicate crystalline texture rather than turning the mixture into a puddle.
To serve – Top with sprinkles, chocolate chips, or your favorite toppings and enjoy immediately before it melts.
Substitutions – Granulated or brown sugar can replace maple syrup if preferred.
Variations – Use any non-dairy milk to make this recipe dairy-free; coconut milk or oat milk both work well.
Enjoy snow cream at your own discretion and choose clean snow far from roads and exhaust.
About this easy snow ice cream recipe
- Turning fresh snow into ice cream is a delightful family activity.
- Snow ice cream is light and fluffy, a different experience from churned ice cream.
- It comes together in about 5 minutes with just a few simple ingredients.
- Many recipes use sweetened condensed or evaporated milk; we prefer to keep it simple with milk or cream.
- This version is sweetened with maple syrup rather than refined white sugar.
FAQ about making ice cream out of snow
Can you use any snow for making ice cream?
Use only clean, untouched snow that hasn’t been on the ground long. Fluffy, freshly fallen snow yields the best texture. Avoid snow near roads or areas that may be contaminated.
Can I use non-dairy milk in this recipe?
Yes. Swap in your favorite plant-based milk—almond, oat, or coconut milk all make tasty dairy-free snow cream.
Is snow ice cream safe to eat?
When made with fresh, clean snow collected away from traffic or pollutants, snow ice cream is generally safe. Exercise caution and avoid snow that may have been exposed to contaminants like road salt or car exhaust.
More ice cream recipes on the blog
- Old-Fashioned Chocolate Ice Cream
- Strawberry Ice Cream
- Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream
- Cookies and Cream Ice Cream
- Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
Pin these steps to try later. Tag @athomeontheprairie on Instagram to share what you’ve made with us!
Snow Ice Cream
4 servings
5 minutes
5 minutes
Learn how to make old-fashioned snow ice cream and start a new tradition with your kids!
Ingredients
- 8 heaping cups of fresh, clean snow
- 1 cup milk, heavy cream, or any other kind of milk
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- pinch of salt
Instructions
- Collect 8 heaping cups of fresh, clean undisturbed snow in a large bowl.
- In a medium bowl, whisk 1 cup milk, 1/2 cup maple syrup, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
- Pour the milk mixture over the snow and fold together with a spatula until evenly incorporated.
Notes
For best results – Prepare the milk mixture first and then scoop the snow so it melts less quickly.
Don’t overmix; keep some of the snow’s crystalline texture for the best mouthfeel.
To serve – Top with sprinkles or other toppings and enjoy immediately.
Substitutions – Granulated or brown sugar can replace maple syrup.
Variations – Use non-dairy milk for a dairy-free version.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4
Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 193Total Fat: 5gSaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 18mgSodium: 97mgCarbohydrates: 33gFiber: 0gSugar: 31gProtein: 4g