Šnenokle – A Childhood Dessert That Never Goes Out of Style

Among the many rich, creamy, and sweet desserts that grace the Balkan table, šnenokle hold a special place. Light, delicate, almost ethereal – they take us back to childhood, to Sunday lunches at grandma’s house, when the whole home would be filled with the warm aroma of vanilla.

 

The Origin of Šnenokle

Šnenokle (fr. œufs à la neige – "eggs in snow") originated in French cuisine but have seamlessly integrated into the culinary traditions of the Balkans, especially Serbia. During the 19th and early 20th centuries, as European culinary influences grew stronger in Serbia, this dessert became a hit among local homemakers.

In Serbia, šnenokle underwent a slight transformation – they became simpler, but equally delicious. They kept their original identity: soft, poached “snowy” egg white dumplings floating on a rich vanilla custard.

 

snenokle

Traditional Šnenokle Recipe

Ingredients:

For the meringue (dumplings):
4 egg whites
4 tablespoons sugar
A pinch of salt
1 liter of milk (for poaching the dumplings)

For the custard:
4 egg yolks
100 g sugar
2 packets of vanilla sugar (or real vanilla)
1 tablespoon of cornstarch or flour (optional, for thicker custard)
500 ml milk

Instructions:

Whip the meringue:
Beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until glossy and firm.

Poach the dumplings:
In a wide saucepan, heat 1 liter of milk until just below boiling point (do not let it boil vigorously). Using a spoon, drop meringue into the milk and poach for 1 minute on each side. Remove with a slotted spoon and place in a large bowl.

Make the custard:
Beat the yolks with sugar and vanilla sugar. Add cornstarch if you prefer a thicker custard. Slowly stir in 500 ml of milk and cook over a double boiler or on low heat until it thickens.

Final serving:
Pour the warm or cooled custard over the dumplings and let the dessert chill in the fridge. Optionally, you can sprinkle grated chocolate, cinnamon, or decorate with slivered almonds.

snenokle sa cok

 

Šnenokle are a guilt-free dessert – light on the stomach and on the conscience. There’s no heavy dough, no butter, no nuts – just airy meringue and velvety custard. They’re perfect for spring and summer days, or whenever you crave something sweet, but light.

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