Delicious and Refreshing Homemade Floats: A Step-by-Step Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 scoops of Vanilla Ice Cream
  • 1 cup of Root Beer
  • Whipped Cream (optional for topping)
  • 1 Maraschino Cherry (optional for garnish)

Steps and instructions

  1. Place the scoops of vanilla ice cream into a large glass.
  2. Slowly pour the root beer into the glass, filling it up to the top. Be careful as it may foam up.
  3. Wait for the foam to settle and then continue pouring until the glass is full.
  4. If desired, top the float with a dollop of whipped cream.
  5. Finish off with a maraschino cherry on top for garnish, if using.
  6. Serve with a straw and a long spoon.

Tools for making

  • Large Glass - A glass large enough to hold the float and accommodate the foam.
  • Straw - Used for sipping the float.
  • Long Spoon - For scooping the ice cream and mixing the float.
  • Whipped Cream Dispenser (optional) - If you prefer homemade whipped cream, a dispenser can be used to add a dollop on top.

Recipe variations

  • Use chocolate or strawberry ice cream instead of vanilla for a different flavor.
  • Try using different types of soda like cola, cream soda, or ginger ale instead of root beer.
  • Add a splash of flavored syrup such as chocolate, caramel, or fruit syrup to the float.
  • Create a "Sherbet Float" by using fruit-flavored sherbet instead of ice cream and pairing it with a complementary soda flavor.
  • Add toppings like crushed cookies, sprinkles, or chocolate shavings to the whipped cream.
  • Create a "Coffee Float" by substituting the soda with cold brew coffee or espresso.
  • Make an adult version by adding a shot of your favorite liquor, such as bourbon or rum, to the float.
  • Experiment with different garnishes like a drizzle of chocolate sauce, crushed nuts, or a dusting of cocoa powder.

Recipe overview

This classic Float recipe is a nostalgic and refreshing treat that's perfect for a hot summer day or a fun family night in. With just a few simple ingredients, you can transport yourself back to the days of soda fountains and ice cream parlors. The combination of creamy vanilla ice cream and fizzy root beer creates a unique experience that's both a drink and a dessert. Optionally, top it off with a dollop of whipped cream and a maraschino cherry for an extra special touch. Making a Float is as straightforward as it gets, but there's a certain joy in watching the root beer foam up as it meets the ice cream. So grab a tall glass, a straw and a long spoon, and prepare to enjoy this timeless, delightful dessert.

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different flavor of ice cream? Yes, you can use any flavor of ice cream that you prefer. However, traditional floats are typically made with vanilla ice cream.
  2. Can I use a different type of soda? Absolutely! While root beer is the classic choice, you can use any carbonated beverage of your choice such as cola, ginger ale, or even fruit-flavored sodas.
  3. Can I make a diet or sugar-free version? Yes, you can use sugar-free or diet ice cream and soda options to make a diet or sugar-free float.
  4. Can I add any toppings to my float? Yes, you can get creative with toppings! Whipped cream, chocolate sauce, sprinkles, or crushed cookies are all delicious options.
  5. What type of glass should I use? It is best to use a tall glass to accommodate the ice cream and soda. A classic soda fountain glass or a mason jar works well.
  6. Can I make a float with non-dairy alternatives? Absolutely! You can use non-dairy ice cream options like soy, almond, or coconut-based ice cream to make a dairy-free float.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Glass - A large glass to hold the float.
  • Spoon - A long spoon to help mix and enjoy the float.
  • Straw - A straw for sipping the float.
  • Whipped Cream Dispenser - Optional, for adding whipped cream to the float.
  • Cherry Pitter - Optional, for removing pits from maraschino cherries.

Origin stories

The float, or specifically the ice cream float, was invented by Robert McCay Green in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1874 during the Franklin Institute's semicentennial celebration. The legend goes that Green ran out of ice for the flavored drinks he was selling and used vanilla ice cream from a neighboring vendor, effectively inventing a new drink. His creation was a hit, and the rest, as they say, is history. And the unique name? Well, the ice cream "floated" to the top of the drink. Simple, but effective.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.