How to Make Recipe for Snow Cake

If you’re looking for a light, nostalgic dessert that melts in your mouth like fresh snow, the recipe for snow cake is a timeless choice. Known for its fluffy sponge, cloud-like cream filling, and snowy topping, this cake is visually elegant and surprisingly simple to make.

Unlike heavier desserts, snow cake is praised for its delicate sweetness and soft texture. It’s perfect for gatherings, holidays, or everyday baking when you want something light yet satisfying.

To ensure success, beginners might benefit from this practical cake baking guide, which offers insights on common mistakes and techniques for fluffy cakes. And if you want to understand how specific ingredients affect the crumb and structure of cakes, this cake texture explainer provides a helpful foundation.

What Is Snow Cake?

recipe for snow cake is a type of sponge-based dessert topped with desiccated coconut or powdered sugar to resemble a snowy landscape. Traditionally layered with whipped cream or light buttercream, it originated as a teatime favorite in the UK and Canada.

Unlike rich coconut cake, snow cake is usually made without coconut in the sponge. Instead, the snow-like texture comes from the topping, and the flavor profile remains light, airy, and subtly sweet.

Snow cake is often served on:

• Winter holidays like Christmas
• Bridal and baby showers
• Afternoon tea
• Special birthdays or minimalist weddings

Ingredients for Snow Cake

Core Ingredients

• 4 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour, sifted
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup heavy cream or whipping cream
• 1/2 cup desiccated coconut or powdered sugar for topping

Optional Substitutions

• Gluten-free flour for dietary needs
• Almond extract for a nutty twist
• Vegan alternatives: flax eggs, coconut milk, and plant-based cream
• Jam or lemon curd as a middle layer

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
• Line the base of an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper
• Lightly grease the sides

Step 2: Make the Batter

• Beat eggs and sugar on high speed for 5–7 minutes until thick and pale
• Stir in vanilla extract
• In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt
• Fold the dry mixture into the egg mixture gently to retain air
• Warm milk and butter in a small saucepan
• Slowly incorporate the warm milk mixture into the batter

Step 3: Bake

• Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan
• Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the top springs back when touched
• Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool fully

Step 4: Whip and Assemble

• Whip the cream until stiff peaks form
• Slice the sponge horizontally into two layers
• Spread whipped cream over the bottom layer and sandwich with the top
• Cover the top and sides with remaining whipped cream
• Sprinkle desiccated coconut or icing sugar generously over the surface

Storage and Shelf Life

Proper storage keeps your snow cake fresh and flavorful.

• Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
• For longer storage, freeze the sponge (without cream) for up to 1 month
• Avoid freezing fully assembled snow cake with whipped cream

Nutritional Information (Per Slice)

Approximate values for an 8-slice cake:

• Calories: 270
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Sugar: 18g
• Protein: 4g

Healthier Modifications

• Use a sugar substitute like erythritol
• Choose light whipped topping
• Replace some flour with almond flour for lower carbs

Variations of recipe for snow cake

Snow cake is incredibly versatile. Here are some popular variations to try:

Lemon Snow Cake

• Add lemon zest to the sponge and a tablespoon of lemon juice to the cream

Jam-Filled Snow Cake

• Spread a thin layer of raspberry or strawberry jam before adding whipped cream

Chocolate Snow Cake

• Add 2 tablespoons cocoa powder to the flour for a light chocolate flavor
• If you’re craving something even richer and more decadent, check out this rich chocolate cake recipe using Duncan Hines Devil’s Food mix for a dense, moist option

Vegan Snow Cake

• Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg)
• Use plant-based milk and whipped coconut cream

Expert Baking Tips

• Use room temperature eggs for better volume
• Whip the eggs and sugar mixture thoroughly
• Fold gently—don’t stir or beat once flour is added
• Don’t open the oven in the first 20 minutes of baking
• Chill the cake before cutting for cleaner layers

When to Serve recipe for snow cake

Snow cake’s appearance and flavor make it ideal for:

• Holiday dessert tables
• Minimalist weddings
• Garden parties
• Children’s birthdays
• Tea-time snacks

Recommended pairings include:

• Earl Grey or herbal teas
• Almond or oat milk
• A fruity sparkling wine

A Brief History recipe for snow cake

Snow cake likely originated in the United Kingdom during the early 1900s as a light, festive dessert. Its visual appeal and soft texture made it popular at tea parties and holiday gatherings.

It also gained cultural attention in the 2006 film Snow Cake, where it symbolized comfort and healing.

The minimalist nature of the cake, combined with its versatility, has kept it in home baker rotation for generations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a recipe for snow cake made of?

A traditional recipe for snow cake is made with flour, eggs, sugar, and whipped cream, and topped with desiccated coconut or icing sugar to give it a snowy appearance.

Is recipe for snow cake the same as coconut cake?

No. Coconut cake often includes coconut in the batter and filling, while snow cake is lighter and only uses coconut as a topping.

Can I make recipe for snow cake without eggs?

Yes. Use one of the following per egg:

• 1/4 cup applesauce
• 1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water

How do I make recipe for snow cake fluffy?

• Beat the eggs and sugar until thick and pale
• Fold in the flour mixture gently
• Avoid overbaking and keep oven temperature consistent

Can I make it in advance?

Yes. Bake and freeze the sponge in advance. Assemble with fresh cream the day you plan to serve it.

Conclusion

recipe for snow cake is the kind of dessert that proves simple ingredients can create stunning results. Its airy texture, snowy finish, and adaptability make it an excellent go-to for both beginner and experienced bakers.

Whether you’re preparing it for a festive event or just treating yourself, this cake offers a delightful balance of sweetness and lightness. And with endless flavor possibilities—from lemon and jam to chocolate and vegan—it’s easy to make it your own.