Snowball Recipe + Ingredients & Tips

Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Advocaat
Alcohol 8%
Calories 215 calories
Fat 5g
Protein 1g
Carbohydrates 19g
Prep time 2 minutes

Picture this: a cold, creamy drink that’s both sweet and zesty, topped off with a little fizz. That’s the Snowball, a cocktail that’s as fun to make as it is to sip. In this feature, we’ll explore its history, flavors, and the perfect way to craft one, so let’s dive in together and shake up some magic.

History

The Snowball cocktail is a festive creation that became popular in the United Kingdom during the 1970s. It’s known for its creamy texture and refreshing taste. This drink has a special place in holiday celebrations, particularly Christmas.

• The Snowball got its name because it’s as white and fluffy as a fresh snowfall.
• It was often enjoyed during the winter, making it synonymous with holiday cheer.
• Advocaat, the Dutch egg-based liqueur, is the Snowball’s signature ingredient and dates back to the 17th century.

The taste of a Snowball?

With its creamy vanilla flavor and a lemony zing, a Snowball tastes like a lively winter party in a glass. The effervescence from the soda gives it a playful sparkle that dances on your tongue.

I personally love drinking Snowballs because they’re like a dessert and a drink all in one, and they always put me in a festive mood.

Interesting facts about Snowball

• Despite its creamy base, the Snowball is surprisingly light and not overly sweet.
• The cocktail saw a resurgence in popularity after being featured on a British sitcom in the 2010s.
• Some versions of the Snowball include a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an even richer treat.

Ingredients

• Advocaat: 2 oz (60ml)
• Lime juice: 0.5 oz (15ml)
• Soda water or lemon-lime soda: to top

A Snowball is best served in a highball glass because its tall shape showcases the layers and fizz of the drink. Alternatively, a Poco Grande glass can also be used, giving the cocktail a touch of elegance with its fluted shape.

Recipe. How to make Snowball

1. Pour 2 oz (60ml) of Advocaat into a chilled highball glass filled with ice.
2. Add 0.5 oz (15ml) of lime juice for a tart kick.
3. Top the glass with soda water or lemon-lime soda and gently stir to combine.

While a Snowball is a delightful treat, it’s worth noting that it can be high in sugar. To make a healthier version, you could use a natural sweetener or reduce the amount of Advocaat. However, in moderation, it’s a delightful holiday indulgence.

Food Pairings

Just like a fine wine, the Snowball cocktail pairs beautifully with certain foods that complement its creamy and citrusy notes.

Spicy Appetizers

The sweetness and fizz of a Snowball can help cool down the palate, making it a perfect match for spicy finger foods like jalapeño poppers.

Chocolate Desserts

The vanilla notes of the Snowball harmonize wonderfully with the rich flavors of chocolate, whether it’s a gooey brownie or a slice of chocolate tart.

Roasted Nuts

The crunch and saltiness of roasted nuts balance the creamy sweetness of a Snowball, making for a satisfying snack pairing.

I just adore Snowballs for their charming balance of sweet, tangy, and bubbly—it’s like a celebration in a cup!

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Bartender Advice

• Use freshly squeezed lime juice for the brightest flavor.
• Chill your glass beforehand to keep the Snowball cold and refreshing.
• Adjust the soda to your liking: more for fizz, less for a creamier texture.

Now that you’ve mastered the classic Snowball, in the sections below we’ll shake things up by showing the customizable elements you can alter and introducing a range of exciting variations to try in your next concoction.

What you could change in Snowball

• Swap soda water with ginger ale for a spicier kick.
• Add a splash of brandy for a boozy twist.
• Replace lime juice with lemon for a different citrus note.

Snowball Variations

Brandy Snowball

• Ingredients: Add 1 oz (30ml) of brandy to the standard recipe.
• Recipe: Mix the brandy with Advocaat before topping with soda and lime.

Chocolate Snowball

• Ingredients: Include 0.5 oz (15ml) of chocolate syrup.
• Recipe: Drizzle chocolate syrup over the Advocaat, then add soda and lime.

Tropical Snowball

• Ingredients: Use coconut cream instead of soda water.
• Recipe: Blend coconut cream with Advocaat and lime juice, serve over ice.

For those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages, a Virgin Snowball is a delightful option. Simply mix cream soda with a splash of lime juice, served over ice for a refreshing twist.

Q&A

Can I make a Snowball without Advocaat?

While Advocaat is traditional, you can experiment with custard-based liqueurs or even vanilla-flavored syrups for a non-alcoholic version.

Is the Snowball suitable for kids?

Certainly! Just use cream soda and lime juice for a kid-friendly version that’s just as festive.

How can I make my Snowball creamier?

You can add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a splash of heavy cream to enrich its texture.

What’s the best way to serve a Snowball at a party?

Prepare a large batch in a punch bowl and let guests serve themselves, adding a splash of soda to their glass for fizz.

Can I store leftover Snowball mix?

Yes, you can keep it refrigerated for a day or two, but add the soda just before serving to maintain the fizz.

Are there any seasonal variations of the Snowball?

Absolutely, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, winter-spiced version.