“Yellow” Snow Cones from Monsters Inc. (MADE WITH REAL SNOW!)

What’s Up, Hungry People

It’s time to check under the bed, shut the closet door, and hope you don’t get a surprise visit from your monster in the middle of the night. That’s right, Hungry People, today we’re heading to Monstropolis to join Sulley Sullivan and Mike Wazowski on the scare floor.

Monsters Inc. was one of my favorite movies as a kid (heck, I still love it now!). This Pixar classic takes us into a world where monsters power their city with the screams of human children.

The movie follows Mike and Sulley, two top-tier scarers at Monsters, Inc., who stumble into a major conspiracy and suddenly find themselves in deep trouble.

At one point, they’re banished to the Himalayas, where they meet the legendary Abominable Snowman. Turns out, he’s not terrifying at all – just a chill guy who welcomes them with a treat: lemon-flavored snow cones.

After dozens of requests over on TikTok – and with a conveniently timed snow storm coming my way – I decided it was high time to taste the yellow snow for myself (don’t worry; IT’S LEMON FLAVORED!).

Here’s What You Need

You only need a few simple ingredients to make ‘yellow’ snow for these snow cones!

• Fresh Snow or Finely Shaved/Crushed Ice: The base of the snow cone, providing texture and coldness. DO NOT GET OLD SNOW OR SNOW FROM THE GROUND DIRECTLY. Only use freshly fallen snow that has been collected in a clean container specifically meant for this recipe (I used paper cones and also plastic tupperware containers to collect the snow – you can use a bowl or cups or whatever you have available!)
  • ALTERNATIVELY: Use an actual snow cone ice machine; OR use a large plastic baggie filled with ice and a meat mallet to finely crush to powdery consistency
• Water: Used to dissolve sugar and Kool-Aid, forming the syrup base.
• Sugar: Sweetens the syrup, balancing the tartness of the lemon flavor.
• Lemon Flavored Kool-Aid: Adds a tart and zesty flavor to the syrup.

Let’s Co.. Scare!

First things first – we need to gather fresh snow. If fresh snow is on your radar, it’s the perfect time to get out some cups or paper cones to collect the snow! Yes, snow is safe to eat – if you do it right. Never, EVER eat snow that has been plowed or shoveled, been directly sitting on the ground or if it’s, ya know.. yellow.

You want to collect the snow that’s freshly fallen, ideally in the container you plan to use to serve it, or in a large, clean container from which you can scoop with an ice cream scoop. My technique of using snow cone cups to collect the snow worked out perfectly! I just needed to use an ice cream scoop to help shape the tops and pack down the snow in the cups, making it easier to eat.

Making the Simple Syrup

Creating the syrup for the cones is super easy, but the most crucial factor is the temperature. First, simmer water and sugar until the sugar has dissolved. Then, while still simmering, add in lemon-flavored drink mix (I used a whole packet for that extra zesty flavor) and then let it chill.

Letting the syrup chill until it’s almost frozen is the best way to ensure the liquid doesn’t melt the snow as it’s drizzled over the top. I let my syrup cool to room temperature, then popped it into a decommissioned Scream Canister to chill for several hours.

Once chilled, just drizzle the syrup over the snow and serve right away! There’s nothing to be scared of – promise.

Tips for Making Perfect Yellow Snow Cones from Monsters Inc.

• Choosing the Right Snow: Use only freshly fallen snow to avoid any impurities. Avoid snow that’s been on the ground for too long or looks discolored.
• Syrup Consistency: Ensure the syrup is cooled to the right temperature before applying. If it’s too warm, it will melt the snow.
• Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different Kool-Aid flavors or even natural fruit juices for a twist.
• Storage of Syrup: The syrup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Serving Immediately: Serve the snow cones immediately after preparation to maintain the perfect snow-like consistency.

Common Questions About Snow Cones

• Can I make this without snow? Absolutely! If you don’t have fresh snow, you can use finely shaved or crushed ice. A snow cone machine, ice crushed in a baggie, or a good blender can get you the right texture.
• Is it safe to eat snow? Yes, if you collect it properly. Only use freshly fallen snow that hasn’t touched the ground. Avoid snow that’s been plowed, shoveled, or sitting around for too long. If in doubt, stick with shaved ice.
• Can I use fresh lemon juice instead of Kool-Aid? Yep! Just swap the Kool-Aid for 2–3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice. You may need to add a little extra sugar to balance the tartness.
• How long does the syrup last? The syrup can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using, as the sugar might settle at the bottom.
• What if my syrup melts the snow? This happens if the syrup isn’t cold enough. Make sure it’s fully chilled before pouring it over the snow. If needed, pop it in the freezer for 10–15 minutes before serving.
• Can I try other flavors? Of course! Any Kool-Aid flavor works, or you can use fruit juices like cherry, orange, or lime for a different twist.
• Can I make this ahead of time? Not really – the snow will melt if left too long. But you can make the syrup in advance and store it in the fridge. Then, just collect fresh snow and assemble when you’re ready.
• Can I use store-bought snow cone syrup instead? Sure! If you want to skip making your own, you can use pre-made syrup from the store. But honestly, the homemade version is so easy and tastes better!

Watch It On TikTok

@fictionalfeastfelicia there's only one kind of "yellow snow" I wanna eat, and that's the Abominable Snowman's lemon snow cones that can only be found in the Himalayas – unless you're expecting a snow storm that is! if you don't want to eat freshly fallen snow (I get it) you can totally crush up regular ice and achieve the same thing. either way, this lemon ice from Monster's Inc is top of my list when I see snow on the radar 🍋 #fictionalfeast #fictionalfeastfelicia #reciperequest #monstersincsnowcone #monstersincyellowsnow #abominablesnowmanlemonice #monstersinclemonice #monstersincfood #foodfrommovies #pixarfood #reciperequests #fictionalfeasts ♬ Monsters, Inc – Gustav Lundgren & Unit

This fun little treat brings a bit of Monsters, Inc. into your kitchen, proving that sometimes the simplest snacks are the best ones. Whether you’re revisiting childhood memories or making new ones, these lemon snow cones are a perfect way to enjoy a snowy day. Enjoy, Hungry People, and let me know in the comments what fictional feast should I whip up next!

Boo! Kitty!

ORIGINALLY POSTED JANUARY 2023

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