Kool-Aid Snow Cones (with Real Snow)

Snow cone made with Cherry Kool-Aid

I haven't always lived in a climate where there is actual snow in the winter, but now that I do, using the snow to make yummy things is one of the few advantages to the excessively cold weather. I use snow as an ice bath, I'll set things outside to cool, or I'll use my back yard as a freezer when I run out of freezer space. I mean, it's handy.
It's also delicious. I love snow cones, and when I realized somewhere along the way that I could eat actual snow snow cones, I had to try it. As I was typing that last sentence, I had visions of people sending me snotty comments about the dangers of eating snow, so I googled "Is it safe to eat snow?" and I found an article that says for most people it is safe to eat snow, despite the fact that it contains some bacteria. Apparently those with cystic fibrosis should NOT eat snow. So there you go. Be careful.
The beauty of this recipe is that you can make all sorts of flavors--and it's super cheap. I mean, it uses Kool-Aid, sugar, water, and snow. It doesn't get a heck of a lot simpler and cheaper than that.

Kool-Aid Snow Cones

Ingredients:

• 1 cup water
• 3/4 cup white sugar
• 1 envelope Kool-Aid powder, any flavor
• snow

Instructions:
In a heavy saucepan, bring the water and the sugar to a boil and boil until all of the sugar is dissolved. Turn the heat off and stir in the Kool-Aid powder. Allow the syrup to cool completely before using. To speed up the process you can pour it into a heat-proof cup with a spout and then place in the refrigerator (or outside) to cool completely.
When syrup is cool, you can place it in a plastic squeeze bottle if you've got one, otherwise, place it in a measuring type cup or a little gravy pitcher with a spout you can pour from.
Get a cup (preferably plastic) and fill it with snow, packing the snow lightly. You want it in there somewhat firmly so you've got enough to eat, but not so firm that the syrup slides off the top. Pour some syrup on top. Get a spoon and eat it. I had to stir mine.
You may need to add more syrup as you go, or add a little more water to the syrup so it soaks the snow better. That's up to you.

Makes about 1 cup of syrup and I don't know how many snow cones.

Ezra making his snow cone