Newfoundland Snowballs are a delightful, nostalgic treat that capture the simple joys of life in the north. These fluffy, coconut-covered confections are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a holiday or just indulging in a sweet moment. With years of experience refining this recipe, I can assure you that Snowballs are not just delicious; they are a connection to home and tradition.
Why Make This Recipe
There are countless reasons to whip up these delightful treats:
- Delicious Flavor: The soft, cake-like interior pairs perfectly with the sweet, rich coconut exterior.
- Nostalgic Connection: These treats bring back memories of simpler times, making any gathering feel a little more special.
- Easy Preparation: With a straightforward recipe, they can be whipped up in no time, even on busy days.
- Kid-Friendly: Both making and eating these Snowballs creates lasting memories for the whole family.
- Versatile: They can be enjoyed year-round, making them suitable for any occasion.
I’ve always loved Snowballs for their whimsical appearance and pleasing taste, but it’s the joy of sharing them with friends and family that truly makes them special.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: About 12-15 balls
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Cooking Method: Baking
These sweet delights are baked until lightly golden, then rolled in coconut flakes for that signature finish.
My Experience Making This Recipe
When I first tried my hand at making Newfoundland Snowballs, I found that achieving the perfect texture was crucial. The struggle was real in getting that balance between fluffy and moist, but after a few tries, I discovered that beating the egg whites to stiff peaks made all the difference. Now, they come out light and airy every time!
How to Make Newfoundland Snowballs
Making Snowballs involves a few simple steps that pack a big flavor punch. You start by mixing your dry ingredients, then folding in whipped egg whites for a light texture. Once they’re baked to a golden perfection, you roll them in a coconut coating that adds both sweetness and a delicate chew. Expect a mess of flour and coconut, but that’s all part of the fun!
Expert Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature when you whip them; this helps achieve those fluffy peaks needed for a light texture.
- Quality Coconut: Use unsweetened, fine coconut for the best flavor and texture. It adheres better than larger shreds.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the egg whites into the batter to keep the lovely airiness intact.
- Baking Tray: Use parchment paper on your baking tray for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Watch the Bake: Keep an eye on them while they bake; a light golden color is perfect, but overbaking can lead to dryness.
How to Serve Newfoundland Snowballs
Serve these delightful treats on a colorful platter at your next gathering, or package them up for thoughtful gifts. They pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making them a comforting afternoon snack. For special occasions, consider decorating them with a drizzle of chocolate to up the decadence factor.
Storage and Reheating Guide
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen—just place them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature; no reheating is necessary, as they are best enjoyed fresh.
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring your baking powder is also gluten-free.
- Coconut-Free: Replace the shredded coconut with finely chopped nuts for a different texture and flavor.
- Dairy-Free: Use non-dairy milk instead of regular milk if the recipe calls for it.
- Chocolate Snowballs: Add cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolate twist, then roll them in cocoa powder instead of coconut.
Nutritional Highlights
Newfoundland Snowballs offer a sweet bite without excessive guilt! They provide energy from carbohydrates and can be made healthier with substitutions. However, keep in mind that they are best enjoyed in moderation, especially for those watching their sugar intake.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Dry Texture: If your Snowballs turn out dry, you may have overbaked them. Keep the baking time short and watch closely.
- Coconut Not Sticking: If the coconut coating isn’t adhering well, try letting the baked Snowballs cool slightly before rolling them in coconut to allow the warm, sticky exterior to grab onto it.
- Flat Snowballs: This may happen if the egg whites weren’t whipped to stiff peaks. Make sure to whip them until they hold their shape before folding them into the batter.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Snowballs can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container.
2. What can I substitute for coconut if I don’t like it?
Try finely chopped nuts like almonds or pecans for a different flavor and texture.
3. Can I use a different sweetener?
Yes, you can substitute with alternatives like honey or maple syrup, but make sure to adjust for moisture content.
4. Are Newfoundland Snowballs gluten-free?
Traditional recipes use regular flour, but you can easily make them gluten-free with suitable substitutes and careful ingredient selection.
Enjoy making and sharing these Newfoundland Snowballs! They are not just treats; they are little bursts of joy and nostalgia wrapped up in sweetness.
Newfoundland Snowballs
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12-15 snowballs
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful coconut-covered confections that capture the simple joys of life in the north, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
- 3 large egg whites
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 cup milk
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt together.
- In a separate bowl, whip the egg whites to stiff peaks.
- Fold the egg whites into the dry ingredients gently.
- Spoon the mixture onto the prepared baking tray, shaping into small balls.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden.
- Let cool slightly, then roll in coconut flakes to coat.
Notes
Make sure eggs are at room temperature for better fluffiness, and use fine coconut for best adherence.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Canadian