Reese Witherspoon's Onto Something—Appalachians Have a 'Snow Cream' Recipe

When some people see snow falling outside, they might grab their sled or put on some gloves so they can have a snowball fight. However, for certain food lovers, including Hollywood star Reese Witherspoon, the first thing they do is grab a spoon and tuck in (yes, they eat the snow).

As it turns out, Witherspoon isn't alone, because a food expert told Newsweek that Appalachian snow cream is a popular tradition for many; and this includes TikTok user @lakynsappalachianlife. Heading outside into the wintry weather, the poster didn't think twice about scooping some snow into a bowl and mixing it with other ingredients, including milk and vanilla.

Since the video was posted online a week ago, the clip has already been viewed over 3.8 million times and received more than 221,000 likes.

Alongside the clip, the TikTok user said that "snow cream is a core memory growing up in Appalachia." However, she did have a key warning to anyone who is thinking of trying it out: "Make sure your snow isn't yellow."

While this TikTok user opted for a traditional snow-cream recipe, Witherspoon's idea, which she shared on TikTok, was to switch up her usual morning coffee with some snow instead. Witherspoon dubbed it a "snow salt chococinno," requiring salted caramel syrup, chocolate syrup and cold brew.

What Is Snow Cream?

But how do you make this wintry dessert? Unsurprisingly, you are going to need a load of snow, and recipe blog site Bake Space recommends using 14 ounces of condensed milk and adding in some vanilla. There are alterative interpretations, though, as Food Republic suggests using some sugar to make it sweeter.

The creation may seem novel, but, according to Gabrielle Yap, a culinary entrepreneur at Carnivore Style, it has been loved by many generations, and with so many videos going viral, it's here to stay.

Yap told Newsweek: "Snow cream, essentially made by mixing fresh, clean snow with sweeteners and flavors, has been a whimsical delight for many. Its practice, however, has been elevated by viral videos on TikTok and Reels, causing more people who do not practice it to participate."

Although it looks fun, Yap, from Quezon City, Philippines, said that "eating snow can be a bit tricky" because it may contain harmful substances. If anyone is considering their own snow cream, they should be cautious and ensure that the snow is clean.

"The first snow to fall on the ground is susceptible to contamination from the ground and any bacteria, toxins, or other undesirable molecules. Therefore, it is best to avoid it. Plus, if you're in an area known for smog or high levels of air pollution, you might not want to eat snow," Yap added.

How Did Social Media React?

After sharing the video of her Appalachian snow cream, more than 4,300 people commented on @lakynsappalachianlife's viral video. It's safe to say that social-media users were split by the culinary creation; some people weren't at all tempted, while others shared their own memories of making the nostalgic treat.

One comment reads: "Just no way with cloud seeding today that I would eat the snow. Lord knows what's in it anymore."

Another person responded: "grew up eating snow cream in Tennessee and made snow cream for my boys when they were growing up."

A third commenter wrote: "That's the good stuff. I made that for some NY folk one time and they were horrified but it's delicious."

Newsweek reached out to @lakynsappalachianlife via TikTok for comment. We could not verify the details of the case.

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