All About the Baltimore Snowball
Learn what sets Baltimore's version of this icy treat apart from other cities' and find a snowball stand near you to try one today!
It’s not just the rising temperatures, packed pools, farmer’s markets or neighborhood festivals—you’ll really know it’s summer in Charm City when the snowball stands start opening up again. Not to be confused with snowcones, water ice, slushies or Hawaiian ice, the snowball is a quintessential Baltimore treat dating as far back as the Industrial Revolution. Keep reading to learn how the snowball became so popular in Charm City and discover Baltimore’s best snowball stands.
What is a Baltimore snowball?
The Baltimore-style snowball is a frozen treat consisting of finely-shaved ice and flavored syrup. They are believed to have evolved from the 1800s ice-wagon trade. As ice trucks passed through the city, Baltimore children would chase them and ask for shavings to bring home to their mothers, who would then sweeten them with syrup. As the snowball grew in popularity, stands started popping up in Charm City, especially during the Great Depression when they became known as the “penny sundae.” While you’re not likely to find them for just one cent today, the average $3-7 price point makes them one of the most budget-friendly desserts in Baltimore.
Baltimore snowballs are set apart by their finely-shaven ice.
What are the most iconic snowball flavors?
Have your snowball the Baltimore way with marshmallow on top!
Apart from the texture of the ice, a Baltimore snowball is set apart by its traditional flavors, the most popular of which is egg custard. A combination of eggs, vanilla and sugar, egg custard was originated by those 19th century mothers as a cheap and easy way to flavor the ice. Every stand has its own offerings, but other commonly beloved flavors include Skylite, which typically blends anise, citrus and vanilla, as well as chocolate and strawberry. Ask for a dollop of marshmallow on top for a true Baltimore snowball!
Where can I get a snowball in Baltimore?
Keep your eyes peeled for snowball signs on the side of the road!
Snowball stands are typically an unassuming shack on the side of the road that pop up during summer, but in Baltimore there are a few mainstays we love.
Icy Delights
A short walk from Canton Waterfront Park, O’Donnell Square and the iconic Mr. Boh sign, the seasonal Icy Delights stand in Brewer’s Hill is the perfect place to cool down between neighborhood explorations. Choose from dozens of traditional and “deluxe” snowball flavors, including peanut butter & jelly and “Cotton Candy Heaven.” Plus, many of Icy Delight’s offerings can also be made with sugar-free syrup.
Ice Queens
Grab a New Orleans-style snowball from Ice Queens in Locust Point.
Located in Locust Point, Ice Queens serves up New Orleans-style snowballs and other delicious desserts such as beignets and cobbler. They also serve breakfast and lunch items, making it the perfect place to fuel up before a trip to nearby Fort McHenry. Kids, keep an eye out for Princess Tiana; the Disney star always stops at Ice Queens on her trips to Baltimore from the Bayou and never says no to a photo!
One Sweet Moment
This Hamilton snowball stand has been helping locals cool off for more than 30 years. With 150 snowball flavors, One Sweet Moment boasts one of the most extensive menus in Baltimore. Stick with a classic fruit syrup or try a shop specialty, such as “Bahama Mama” or berries & cream. One Sweet Moment also serves soft-serve custard, hand-dipped ice cream and indulgent sundaes, making it an easy stop for the whole family.
The Peggy at Walther Gardens & Nursery
Standing at more than 100 years old, The Peggy is not only the oldest snowball stand in the country, but it’s also where the iconic egg custard flavor originated—and that 1922 recipe is still used today! While enjoying your sweet treat, be sure to explore the vast Walther Gardens grounds, which include a rose garden, 1885 farmhouse, a greenhouse, a pantry and so much more.
Snowballs are the perfect summer treat, consisting of shaved ice and commonly topped with marshmallow!
Quality Snowballs
Quality Snowballs serves icy treats from a repurposed shipping container!
It would be easy to walk past the unassuming shipping container that houses Quality Snowballs if not for the crowd that almost always surrounds it. From Chef Chad Gauss of the popular Food Market restaurant across the street, Quality goes beyond flavored syrups to offer truly special snowballs. Popular offerings include kitchen sink cheesecake, pineapple upside down and watermelon basil lime.
