Allergy-free Sno-Balls

Summer is ending and school is getting started.  There is no better way to kick off this change of season that with Sno-Balls.  Sno-Balls, SnoCones, Shaved Ice, Nieves - no matter what you call them, these syrup-covered cups of ice make for a fun afternoon.  But many do not realize that most of these syrups are not only full of dyes but they also use corn syrup as their sweetener.  And, for those allergic to corn, this summer treat loses its allure! 

My recipe for Allergy-free Sno-Balls is made with cane sugar and fruits of your choice.  With only one hour in the kitchen, you can make fruity syrups that are, not only safe, but also dye-free!


Sno-Balls

1/2 canteloupe, seeded and peeled
1/4 large watermelon
2 mangoes, peel and cut from the seed
3 C blueberries, washed
1 recipe Sugar Syrup
1 shaved ice machine
ice (read your machine's instructions for the type)

1. Make a batch of Sugar Syrup and set aside to cool.
2. Place the canteloupe in a blender.
3. Add 1/2 C Sugar Syrup.
4. Blend until smooth.
5. Pour through a strainer to remove the pulp.
6. Place strainer juice in a squirty bottle.
7. Add 1/2 C water.  Shake.
8. Taste.  Add water or Sugar Syrup and adjust the flavor to your tastes. 
9. Repeat this process until you have made a syrup with each fruit.  NOTE:  You do not need to strain the mango; but, it will need more water to become "squirtable".
10. Once the syrups are made, shave ice into a cup and pour the desired amount of syrup on top.
11. Serve with a spoon and a straw.

Remember:  The syrup will be poured over ice, so it should be VERY sweet.  Because of seasonal variations in the sweetness of fruits, the amount of water or syrup needed will vary.  You will need to find your preferred balance between the fruit flavor and the sweetness of the syrup. 

HINT:  These syrups freeze very well.  Pour them into ice cube trays and freeze.  Once the syrup is frozen, dump the cubes into a Ziploc bag and store in the freezer.  When you want sno-balls, just thaw our a few cubes and you are ready to shave your ice!