Authentic German Schneeball Recipe: A Sweet & Crunchy Delight

Ingredients

2 cups of all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon of salt
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
1/2 cup of water
3/4 cup of confectioners' sugar
1 tablespoon of rum (optional)
Vegetable oil for deep frying

Steps and instructions

Combine the flour and salt in a large bowl.
Make a well in the center of the mixture and add the eggs, 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, and water.
Mix until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Let the dough rest for 30 minutes.
Divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into a thin circle.
Cut each circle into strips and loosely layer them to form a ball shape.
Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large saucepan to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
Fry the balls, one at a time, until golden brown. This should take about 2 to 3 minutes.
Drain on paper towels.
For the icing, mix the confectioners' sugar and rum in a bowl until smooth.
Drizzle the icing over the cooled balls.

Tools for making

Mixing bowl - for combining the flour, salt, eggs, oil, and water
Rolling pin - to roll out the dough into thin circles
Knife - for cutting the dough into strips
Deep fryer or large saucepan - for frying the schneeball balls
Paper towels - for draining the fried balls
Bowl - for mixing the confectioners' sugar and rum
Spoon or whisk - for mixing the icing

Recipe variations

Using a different type of flour, such as whole wheat flour or almond flour, for a different flavor or dietary preference.
Adding spices or flavorings to the dough, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla extract, to enhance the taste.
Replacing the vegetable oil with melted butter or coconut oil to add richness.
Adding chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, to the dough for added texture.
For a savory variation, stuffing the dough with ingredients like cheese, ham, or spinach before frying.
Coating the fried balls with different toppings, such as powdered sugar mixed with cocoa powder or crushed cookies.
Using a different type of glaze or icing, such as chocolate ganache or a citrus-flavored glaze.
Experimenting with different shapes for the balls, such as squares, triangles, or twists.

Recipe overview

Looking for a delicious, traditional German dessert? Schneeball, or "snowball", is a delightful pastry known for its characteristic ball-like shape and sweet, sugary taste. This deep-fried treat is typically covered with confectioners' sugar, and sometimes even drizzled with rum icing for an extra kick. While it might look complicated to prepare, making Schneeball is pretty straightforward. You'll simply create a dough from flour, salt, eggs, and oil, roll it out and cut it into strips, then layer the strips to form a ball. The balls are then deep-fried until they're golden brown and covered with icing. Enjoy this dessert with a cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate afternoon indulgence. Happy cooking!

Common questions

Can I use a different type of flour? It is recommended to use all-purpose flour for this recipe as it provides the best texture and results.
Can I omit the rum in the icing? Yes, the rum is optional and can be omitted if desired. The icing will still be delicious without it.
Can I use a different type of oil for frying? Vegetable oil is recommended for frying as it has a neutral flavor and high smoke point. You can use other oils suitable for deep frying, such as canola or peanut oil.
Can I make the dough ahead of time? The dough can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before rolling and frying.
Can I freeze the Schneeball? It is not recommended to freeze the Schneeball as it may affect the texture and crispiness. It is best enjoyed fresh.
Can I store the Schneeball? The Schneeball can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. However, for the best taste and texture, it is recommended to consume them as soon as possible.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing bowl - A large bowl to mix the ingredients.
Whisk - Used to mix the dough and icing ingredients.
Rolling pin - Used to roll out the dough into thin circles.
Deep fryer or saucepan - Used for frying the Schneeball balls.
Slotted spoon or tongs - For removing the fried balls from the oil.
Paper towels - To drain the fried balls and remove excess oil.

Origin stories

Schneeballen, or "snowballs", have been a traditional teatime treat in the Franconian region of Germany for centuries. The pastry first appeared in the town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, where it has been a beloved staple and symbol of the town since the medieval times. It was originally created as a special dish for festive occasions such as weddings and baptisms due to its unique form and long shelf life. Today, it is not only enjoyed by locals but also by visitors from all over the world who come to experience the charm of Rothenburg and its culinary delights. The traditional way of eating the Schneeball is not by biting into it, but by breaking it into pieces with a small mallet that often accompanies the pastry in bakeries in Rothenburg.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.