I have to confess, after trying this Dr Pepper Float recipe, I can’t imagine summer without it! The way the rich, creamy vanilla ice cream combines with fizzy Dr Pepper and a touch of vanilla simple syrup is pure magic.
It’s an easy drink-dessert hybrid that feels special enough for gatherings but simple enough for a quick personal treat.
Whether you sip it through a straw or scoop it with a spoon, you’ll love how deliciously refreshing it is. If you love float drinks, you can also try a coffee float packed with bold flavor and creaminess.

Ingredients
- 3–4 scoops vanilla ice cream
- ½ ounce vanilla simple syrup
- 10 ounces Dr Pepper
Note: This recipe makes 1 float. Multiply ingredients as needed for additional servings.
Time Required
The total time to create this float is just 20 minutes, including 15 minutes to chill the glasses and 5 minutes to assemble the drink. This recipe serves one person.
Equipment You Need
- Tall glass or mug – To hold your float and allow room for the soda fizz.
- Freezer – For chilling your glass.
- Spoon – For scooping the ice cream.
- Measuring spoon – To measure the vanilla simple syrup accurately.
- Straw – To enjoy your float, though optional.
How to Make Dr Pepper Float?
This is the perfect mix of simplicity and deliciousness! Follow these easy steps to whip up the ultimate Dr Pepper Float in minutes.
Step 1: Chill Your Glass
Start by placing your chosen glass in the freezer for 15 minutes. A chilled glass keeps your float icy cold and adds to the frosty experience. Trust me, it’s worth the short wait for that refreshing, frost-kissed sip!
Step 2: Add the First Scoops
Take your chilled glass and scoop in 2–3 generous spoonfuls of vanilla ice cream. Adding the ice cream first creates a solid base for the soda to work its bubbling magic. It’s also the secret behind that smooth foam!
Step 3: Drizzle with Vanilla Syrup
Pour ½ ounce of vanilla simple syrup over the ice cream. This step may be small, but the extra boost of rich vanilla makes the flavor unforgettable. Every sip feels indulgent, and the syrup blends perfectly with the soda.
Step 4: Pour the Dr Pepper
Tilt the glass slightly and slowly pour in your Dr Pepper. Aim for about 10 ounces. Pouring at an angle minimizes excessive foaming and mess. Watch as the fizzy soda meets the creamy ice cream to create that irresistible velvety texture.
Step 5: Top It Off
Finish with an additional scoop of ice cream on top for bonus creaminess. Add a fun straw, grab a spoon, and your Dr Pepper Float is ready to serve. Enjoy it immediately for the best experience!
If you’re a fan of similar sweet creations, try exploring the best root beer float recipe for another classic cooling treat.

Credit: theyummygeek
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick rundown of the nutrients in this delicious float recipe.
- Calories: 573
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 90g
- Fat: 22g
Tips for Making the Best Dr Pepper Float
From personal experience, I’ve discovered a few extra tips for the perfect float. These small details really bring out its flavor and presentation!
- Chill the Soda
Use ice-cold Dr Pepper directly from the fridge. Adding soda at the right temperature keeps your float frosty and prevents the ice cream from melting too quickly. - Pick a Quality Ice Cream
Higher fat content in ice cream (at least 15%) makes the float richer and creamier. My go-to brands are Haagen-Dazs and Friendly’s. - Experiment with Toppings
Spruce up your float with whipped cream, maraschino cherries, or sprinkles for a fun twist. It’s an easy way to make the presentation feel extra special. - Use Proper Pouring Technique
Always pour soda at an angle to reduce over-foaming and mess. This trick also ensures the soda mixes perfectly with the ice cream. - Try Flavors
Feel free to experiment with flavored Dr Pepper, like Cherry Vanilla or Strawberries and Cream, to add new dimensions to your float. You could even pair flavored sodas with matching ice creams for a unique twist.
You can also enjoy similar drink recipes to inspire your next refreshing treat adventure! Making a Dr Pepper Float is as fun as it is tasty, and I think you’ll enjoy the process just as much as the final product. Share it with friends or savor it solo–but either way, don’t expect to share leftovers!

Dr Pepper Float
Ingredients
- 3 –4 scoops vanilla ice cream
- ½ ounce vanilla simple syrup
- 10 ounces Dr Pepper
Instructions
- Start by placing your chosen glass in the freezer for 15 minutes. A chilled glass keeps your float icy cold and adds to the frosty experience. Trust me, it’s worth the short wait for that refreshing, frost-kissed sip!
- Take your chilled glass and scoop in 2–3 generous spoonfuls of vanilla ice cream. Adding the ice cream first creates a solid base for the soda to work its bubbling magic. It’s also the secret behind that smooth foam!
- Pour ½ ounce of vanilla simple syrup over the ice cream. This step may be small, but the extra boost of rich vanilla makes the flavor unforgettable. Every sip feels indulgent, and the syrup blends perfectly with the soda.
- Tilt the glass slightly and slowly pour in your Dr Pepper. Aim for about 10 ounces. Pouring at an angle minimizes excessive foaming and mess. Watch as the fizzy soda meets the creamy ice cream to create that irresistible velvety texture.
- Finish with an additional scoop of ice cream on top for bonus creaminess. Add a fun straw, grab a spoon, and your Dr Pepper Float is ready to serve. Enjoy it immediately for the best experience!
Notes
- Use ice-cold Dr Pepper directly from the fridge. Adding soda at the right temperature keeps your float frosty and prevents the ice cream from melting too quickly.
- Higher fat content in ice cream (at least 15%) makes the float richer and creamier. My go-to brands are Haagen-Dazs and Friendly’s.
- Spruce up your float with whipped cream, maraschino cherries, or sprinkles for a fun twist. It’s an easy way to make the presentation feel extra special.
- Always pour soda at an angle to reduce over-foaming and mess. This trick also ensures the soda mixes perfectly with the ice cream.