




The Snowball is a cocktail from the United Kingdom that became especially popular in the mid-20th century. The core ingredient is advocaat, a Dutch liqueur made from eggs, sugar, and brandy, which gives the drink a custard-like flavor and creamy texture. The traditional Snowball recipe mixes advocaat with lemonade (carbonated lemon soda in the UK) and sometimes a dash of lime juice. The standard ratio is approximately two parts lemonade to one part advocaat.
The Snowball emerged as a widely consumed festive drink in the 1970s but has origins that date to the late 1940s and early 1950s, as advocaat's importation to the UK increased after World War II. Originally, advocaat was consumed on its own, but British bartenders and households experimented with its uses, leading to the rise of mixed drinks like the Snowball. The connection with winter is likely due to the cocktail's yellow color and frothy appearance, which resembles snow when prepared, and its popularity as a holiday or Christmas drink in the UK.
Glassware for the Snowball varies; it is typically served in a highball or rocks glass, poured over ice. Garnishes may include a maraschino cherry or a slice of lime. Variations may include using soda water, adding bitters, or incorporating sparkling wine instead of lemonade. The drink became associated with the "retro" cocktail culture and is often referenced as an example of mid-20th-century British beverages.
Pre-packaged versions became common in supermarkets by the late 20th century, contributing to its mixed reputation. While its popularity waned after the 1980s, the Snowball remains part of British cocktail canon and often reappears at Christmas gatherings. The alcohol content is relatively low, contributing to its use as a family or party drink.
Advocaat, lemonade, lime juice (optional), maraschino cherry (optional), ice (optional)
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