Schneeball

A Schneeball, also known as a Schneeballen or "snowball" in English, is a delightful pastry made from shortcrust dough, particularly popular in the charming town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber. The name Schneeball, which means "snowball" in German, aptly describes its round, ball-like shape, typically about three to four inches in diameter, and its traditional dusting of white confectioner's sugar. Some people also refer to it as a Storchennest, or "stork's nest."

This delectable treat has been beloved for over 300 years in the Franconia and Hohenlohe regions of Germany. Initially, Schneeballs were reserved for special occasions like weddings. Nowadays, you can enjoy them any time of the year. You will find them in bakeries, pastry shops, and cafes throughout Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Some local businesses even specialize in Schneeballs, offering a variety of flavors and fillings beyond the classic sugar coating, including chocolate, nuts, and marzipan. Given their iconic status, Schneeballs make for a popular and delicious souvenir.

The main ingredients used to create Schneeballs are flour, eggs, sugar, butter, cream, and a touch of plum schnapps. To achieve their distinctive shape, the dough is rolled out and cut into even strips. These strips are then woven over and under a stick or spoon handle to form a loose ball. The stick is gently removed, and the dough is deep-fried until it turns a beautiful golden brown. While still warm, the Schneeball is dusted with confectioner's sugar. The result is a pastry that resembles a dry cookie, with a long shelf life of about eight weeks without needing refrigeration.