When I was a little girl, there were three reasons to LOVE winter: Christmas, snow days, and Mamaw’s snow cream. I remember shrieking with delight when it snowed. I’d run straight to Mamaw and ask if it was time to make snow cream.
Aunt Janey says Mamaw didn’t make snow cream out of the first snow of the season. We had to wait until the second. Southern tradition holds that the first snow is dirty from catching all the impurities in the air on the way down. Aunt Karen claimed the Biltmore milk made Mamaw’s snow cream magical, but I missed out on the Biltmore milk days. I can’t imagine that Mamaw’s snow cream could have gotten much better!
I don’t remember waiting for the second snow or the Biltmore milk. But I recollect getting a bowl and running out to the pump house to collect snow from its roof. My cousin, Kylie, remembers this time-honored tradition as well. Mamaw wouldn’t use snow that came straight off the ground (my best guess would be to avoid dirt and worse – yellow snow).
After bringing the snow in, I helped Mamaw mix up the frozen treat (sometimes being chastised for dipping my fingers into the condensed milk to have a taste). Then I’d sit by the woodstove and eat until my little heart was content.
I’m still a little kid at heart, squealing with joy when I spot those first snowflakes fall from the sky. I always pray for enough snow to make Mamaw’s snow cream for the girls. Last night we got enough snow to make four big bowls! Who says prayers don’t come true? 😉
Mamaw’s Snow Cream
Ingredients:
- Large Bowl of Clean Snow
- 14 oz. Can of Sweetened Condensed Milk
- 2 Teaspoons of Vanilla
Directions:
- Pour the condensed milk and 2 teaspoons of vanilla into the large bowl of clean snow.
- Stir by hand thoroughly.
- Serve with toppings of choice.
