Making a root beer float brings back so many warm memories for me. I’ll never forget the joy of making these creamy, fizzy treats with my family on those hot summer days. There’s just something so satisfying about watching rich vanilla ice cream mingle with bubbly root beer, creating a frothy, irresistible drink.
After trying it yourself, I bet you’ll agree there’s no better way to cool off or treat yourself. Whether you’re making it for the first time or reliving nostalgic moments, this easy recipe is sheer bliss.
Ingredients
- Vanilla ice cream, 2-3 scoops per glass
- Root beer, cold, approximately 1 cup per serving
Note: This recipe makes 1 root beer float. Multiply the ingredients as needed for more servings!
Variations
Feel free to adapt this classic recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ideas to take your root beer float to the next level:
- Dairy-free: Use dairy-free vanilla ice cream and pair it with your favorite vegan root beer.
- Sugar-free: Opt for sugar-free root beer and sugar-free ice cream for a guilt-free treat.
- Flavor twist: Mix it up with flavored sodas like cream soda, cola, or even cherry soda.
- Extra creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half for a richer texture.
- Boozy float: For adults, add a shot of spiced rum or vanilla vodka to the mix.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: None
- Total Time: 5 minutes
Equipment You Need
- Tall glass: For the ultimate presentation and to allow room for foam.
- Ice cream scoop: To get perfect scoops of ice cream.
- Spoon and straw: For sipping and scooping every last bit of goodness.
How to Make Root Beer Float?
Making a root beer float is as simple as it gets, but the result is magical. Here’s a step-by-step guide to perfecting this classic drink:
Step 1: Scoop the Ice Cream
Start with a tall glass, as it lets the foam build up without spilling over. Add two to three scoops of vanilla ice cream to the bottom of the glass. Make sure the ice cream is slightly softened; this helps it float beautifully on top of the root beer.
Step 2: Pour the Root Beer
Slowly pour cold root beer over the ice cream. Take your time here to control the foam. Add a little at first, pause for the foam to settle, and then pour in some more. This method avoids too many spills and creates that signature bubbly top.
Step 3: Add the Finishing Touches
Once the root beer fills the glass, serve the float immediately with a spoon for scooping and a straw for sipping. You can even top it off with whipped cream for an indulgent garnish.
Step 4: Enjoy!
Grab your favorite spot and dig in. A root beer float is best enjoyed right away, so don’t wait too long before taking the first sip.
Source: Pinterest
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
This root beer float recipe is a classic for a reason! Here’s why you’ll love making and enjoying it:
- Quick and easy: It takes just minutes to prepare with no cooking required.
- Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to fit your dietary needs or preferences.
- Fun to make: Watching the foam rise never gets old, no matter your age.
- Perfect for any occasion: Great for summer parties, family evenings, or nostalgia trips.
- Kid-friendly: It’s a delightful treat the whole family will love.
How to Serve Root Beer Float?
Presentation is key when serving root beer floats. Use tall, clear glasses that showcase the layers of ice cream and soda for a visual treat. Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra flair, or sprinkle some chocolate shavings, crushed nuts, or colorful sprinkles. Serve with a wide straw and a long spoon so your guests can enjoy every fizzy, creamy sip. This drink pairs beautifully with cookies, burgers, or a hot summer barbecue.
Nutritional Information
Here’s what you can expect from one serving of this drink, based on standard ingredients:
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 77g
- Fat: 15g
Make Ahead and Storage
While a root beer float is best enjoyed fresh, there are a few things you can do ahead of time:
- Prep ahead: Scoop ice cream into your glasses and freeze them until you’re ready to add the root beer. This keeps the drink frosty and the ice cream in place.
- Storage: If you have leftover root beer or opened ice cream, simply seal and refrigerate the soda, and return the ice cream to the freezer.
Note that the float itself doesn’t store well once made, as the ice cream will melt and dilute the soda.
Tips for Making the Recipe
After making this recipe countless times, I’ve discovered a few tricks to make it even better:
- Chill your glass: This keeps the drink cold longer and minimizes ice cream melting too quickly.
- Go slow with the root beer: Pouring too fast creates excess foam that’s harder to manage.
- Level up the toppings: Try caramel drizzle, mini marshmallows, or a splash of chocolate syrup for extra decadence.
- Use premium ingredients: High-quality root beer and creamy vanilla ice cream make all the difference.
- Experiment with quantities: Add more ice cream for a creamier float or more soda if you prefer a lighter mix.
Root beer floats are the simplest yet most delightful desserts you can make at home. With just two ingredients and a wave of nostalgia, this classic recipe is sure to please anyone who tries it. Go ahead, make yourself a fizzy, creamy treat and enjoy every spoonful and sip!
Root Beer Float Recipe
Ingredients
- Vanilla ice cream 2-3 scoops per glass
- Root beer cold, approximately 1 cup per serving
Instructions
- Start with a tall glass, as it lets the foam build up without spilling over. Add two to three scoops of vanilla ice cream to the bottom of the glass. Make sure the ice cream is slightly softened; this helps it float beautifully on top of the root beer.
- Slowly pour cold root beer over the ice cream. Take your time here to control the foam. Add a little at first, pause for the foam to settle, and then pour in some more. This method avoids too many spills and creates that signature bubbly top.
- Once the root beer fills the glass, serve the float immediately with a spoon for scooping and a straw for sipping. You can even top it off with whipped cream for an indulgent garnish.
- Grab your favorite spot and dig in. A root beer float is best enjoyed right away, so don’t wait too long before taking the first sip.
Notes
- Chill your glass: This keeps the drink cold longer and minimizes ice cream melting too quickly.
- Go slow with the root beer: Pouring too fast creates excess foam that’s harder to manage.
- Level up the toppings: Try caramel drizzle, mini marshmallows, or a splash of chocolate syrup for extra decadence.
- Use premium ingredients: High-quality root beer and creamy vanilla ice cream make all the difference.
- Experiment with quantities: Add more ice cream for a creamier float or more soda if you prefer a lighter mix.
