When I think of summer indulgence, a refreshing Coke Float tops the list. The combination of fizzy cola and velvety vanilla ice cream is pure nostalgic bliss. I recently whipped up this simple treat with my kids, and we all agreed it’s a crowd-pleaser no matter your age. With just two main ingredients, you can create a creamy, fizzy delight that’s perfect for cooling off during a hot afternoon!
Ingredients
- 12 ounces of Coca-Cola, chilled
- 1 to 2 scoops of vanilla ice cream
Note: This recipe serves 1.
Variations
Adding a twist to this classic can make it even more exciting! Here are a few ways to switch it up:
- For a lighter version, substitute Coca-Cola with diet cola and use reduced-fat ice cream.
- Experiment with different sodas like root beer, orange soda, or cream soda for unique flavors.
- Try using dairy-free ice cream for a vegan-friendly float.
- Add a tropical touch by including 2 tablespoons of coconut syrup and a squeeze of lime juice.
- Top it with whipped cream, chocolate syrup, or a maraschino cherry for extra flair.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: None
- Total Time: 5 minutes
Equipment You Need
- Chilled glass – Use a glass pre-frozen for 10 minutes to keep everything icy cold.
- Ice cream scoop – Makes portioning the ice cream neat and easy.
- Straw and spoon – Ideal for sipping and scooping your float.
How to Make a Coke Float?
Making a Coke Float is as simple as it gets, but the details can take it from ‘good’ to ‘wow.’ Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Prepare Your Glass
Start by freezing your glass for at least 10 minutes before you assemble your float. This step ensures your ingredients stay cold for longer, which is key to achieving that perfect combination of fizzy and creamy!
Step 2: Pour the Coca-Cola
Carefully tilt your frozen glass and slowly pour the chilled Coca-Cola about three-quarters of the way full. Pouring slowly helps reduce excessive foam and gives you better control over the fizz levels.
Step 3: Add the Ice Cream
Scoop 1 or 2 generous scoops of vanilla ice cream and gently place them on top of the soda. The combination of ingredients will cause the soda to fizz up beautifully around the ice cream.
Step 4: Perfect the Float
To cap it off, drizzle just a bit more Coca-Cola over the ice cream so that it’s filled to the top. This touch gives the float that iconic look with bubbling foam.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Grab a spoon and a straw before serving. You can enjoy the float straight away, savoring bites of ice cream along with sips of cola, or mix it all together into one frothy masterpiece like a milkshake!

Source: Pinterest
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
This treat is not just delicious but also checks all the right boxes for a quick fix!
- It’s ridiculously easy to make.
- Customizable with endless flavor combinations.
- Perfect for cooling off on a hot day.
- Minimal ingredients and no cooking required.
- Ideal for family fun or as a party pleaser.
How to Serve Coke Float?
Serve your Coke Float in a frozen glass for that frosty experience. Garnish it with dollops of whipped cream and a maraschino cherry for a stylish touch. You can also sprinkle a bit of cocoa powder, colorful sprinkles, or crushed nuts to add texture and make the presentation playful. Serve with both a straw and a long spoon so it’s easy for friends and family to enjoy.
Nutritional Information
Here are the basic nutritional facts for a single Coke Float:
- Calories: 262
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fat: 7g
These values may vary depending on the specific products you use.
Make Ahead and Storage
Coke Floats are best served fresh, but you can prepare a few elements in advance to save time. Freeze your glasses ahead of time so they’re ready when you need them, and chill the Coca-Cola thoroughly in the fridge for at least 24 hours. However, don’t assemble the float until the very last moment, as the fizz and creaminess are at their peak when freshly made.
If you need to step away from your float for a few minutes, place it in the freezer temporarily so it stays cold. Avoid storing fully assembled Coke Floats for too long, as the ice cream could completely melt into the soda, dulling its magic.
Tips for Making the Recipe
Over the years, I’ve picked up a few tricks to make this simple treat extra special:
- Always use ice-cold soda. Room-temperature cola just doesn’t cut it.
- Don’t skip chilling your glass; it makes the whole experience frostier.
- Pour the soda into the glass at an angle to minimize foam.
- Experiment with the height of the ice cream scoops for fun layering.
- For a gourmet twist, use artisanal vanilla ice cream.
Making a Coke Float is like reviving a fond childhood memory. With its fizzy swirls and creamy scoops, it’s an easy recipe that never fails to deliver a smile. Whether you’re serving one up for yourself or prepping a trayful for friends, this classic treat promises happiness in every sip and spoonful!

Coke Float Recipe
Ingredients
- 12 ounces of Coca-Cola chilled
- 1 to 2 scoops of vanilla ice cream
Instructions
- Start by freezing your glass for at least 10 minutes before you assemble your float. This step ensures your ingredients stay cold for longer, which is key to achieving that perfect combination of fizzy and creamy!
- Carefully tilt your frozen glass and slowly pour the chilled Coca-Cola about three-quarters of the way full. Pouring slowly helps reduce excessive foam and gives you better control over the fizz levels.
- Scoop 1 or 2 generous scoops of vanilla ice cream and gently place them on top of the soda. The combination of ingredients will cause the soda to fizz up beautifully around the ice cream.
- To cap it off, drizzle just a bit more Coca-Cola over the ice cream so that it’s filled to the top. This touch gives the float that iconic look with bubbling foam.
- Grab a spoon and a straw before serving. You can enjoy the float straight away, savoring bites of ice cream along with sips of cola, or mix it all together into one frothy masterpiece like a milkshake!
Notes
- Always use ice-cold soda. Room-temperature cola just doesn’t cut it.
- Don’t skip chilling your glass; it makes the whole experience frostier.
- Pour the soda into the glass at an angle to minimize foam.
- Experiment with the height of the ice cream scoops for fun layering.
- For a gourmet twist, use artisanal vanilla ice cream.