When I was young, hearing the word “snow” prompted images of carefree snow days, playful snowball fights, and jolly snowmen. Lately though, just hearing it causes me to harbor feelings of dread, as I think about plowing my car out of my driveway and inevitably getting snow in my boots on the way to class. Even as the snow melts, it’s still a pain to deal with.

Instead of feeling like an old grouch about the fluffy white stuff, why not put snow to use and make it fun again with the help of some booze? Just follow these simple snow-based recipes and enjoy, cause hey, spring is on the way, and the snow won’t be around forever.

For all of these recipes, just make sure you are collecting fresh snow, or at least wiping off the top layer to ensure that it is clean. Anything that is even a subtle hint of discoloration should be avoided (for obvious reasons).

Frozen Daiquiri

snow

Photo courtesy of wikihow.com

Easy

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 1 minute
Total Time: 6 minutes

Servings: 1

Ingredients:
1 cup snow
1 ½ ounce light rum
1 tablespoon triple sec
1 ½ ounce lime juice
1 teaspoon sugar
1 cherry

Directions:
1. Excluding the cherry, combine all other ingredients in an electric blender at a low speed for five seconds.
2. Pour mixture into a cup (or champagne flute if you want to feel classy).
3. Top with the cherry.

Snow Slushies

snow

Photo courtesy of wikihow.com

Easy

Prep Time: 1 minute
Cook Time: 1 minute
Total Time: 2 minutes

Servings: 1

Ingredients:
1 bowl of snow
1 ½ packets powdered drink mix
1 shot (or 2) alcohol of your choice

Directions:
1. After collecting a bowl of snow, just in add a few packets of your favorite powdered drink (Kool-Aid, Crystal Light, Gatorade, etc.).
2. Add a shot or two of your favorite adult beverage.
3. Mix to slushy consistency.

Boozy (or Non-Alcoholic) Snow Cones

snow

Photo by Dan Dao

Easy

Prep Time: 2 minute
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 7 minutes

Servings: 2-3

Ingredients:
3 cups fresh snow
1 cup sugar
1 cup water
Your favorite drink (alcoholic or not)

Directions:
1. Boil sugar and water in a small saucepan until the sugar completely dissolves.
2. Let cool to room temperature.
3. Add whatever beverage floats your boat: soda, juice, raspberry Svedka (no judgment).
4. Once cooled down, drizzle over snow.

For other related snow day (or freezing cold day) foods, read the following articles: