Russians turn snowdrifts into homemade ice cream amid freezing temperatures

A new culinary trend has taken off in Russia during extreme winter weather. People are making homemade ice cream using snowdrifts and sub-zero temperatures. The method has spread quickly, joining other viral food hacks linked to severe weather conditions worldwide.

The process is simple but requires freezing temperatures. A hollow is carved into a snowdrift, lined with salt, and a metal bowl is placed inside. Heavy cream and sweetened condensed milk (or powdered sugar) are poured into the bowl, then whisked vigorously. The mixture thickens faster in colder air, with ideal temperatures around –20°C (–4°F).

For those without access to snow, an alternative exists. Chilled cream and condensed milk can be blended with a mixer, then frozen until firm. This version avoids outdoor preparation but still delivers a creamy dessert.

The trend is part of a broader wave of weather-inspired cooking. Between 2021 and 2025, extreme conditions sparked creative food trends online. Winter storms in Japan and North America led to snow-based desserts, while Europe and Australia saw heat-wave comfort food challenges. In Southeast Asia, flood-resilient cooking content gained attention. Hashtags like #WeatherCooking and #ClimateKitchen drove engagement across Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.

The snow ice cream trend highlights how extreme weather shapes culinary creativity. With minimal ingredients and freezing temperatures, the method offers a quick, homemade treat. It also reflects a growing interest in adapting cooking techniques to unpredictable climate conditions.