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Root Beer Float
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Whip up the ultimate Root Beer Float with our fun, easy-to-follow recipe. This classic dessert combines creamy vanilla ice cream and fizzy root beer for an irresistible treat. Perfect for hot summer days or a nostalgic sweet fix, you'll love every sip and bite!
Our easy-to-make guide below includes step-by-step photos and directions. We also share pro tips and tricks to perfect your float. Check out our FAQ section for answers to the most frequently asked questions!
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You can make our Root Beer Float recipe in just 5 minutes, making it perfect for any party or special occasion. The creamy vanilla ice cream mixed with fizzy root beer creates a delicious, refreshing treat everyone will love. This recipe stands out because it's quick, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try at home for an instant hit with family and friends!
Root Beer Float Ingredients
What you'll need to make this Root Beer Float:
For The Float:
- 3 small scoops of French vanilla ice cream
- 7.5-ounce mini can of A&W root beer, cold
Pro Tip
I love keeping a six-pack of mini soda cans in my refrigerator as they are great for single-serving cocktails or specialty drinks like this one.
Alternatively, you can just measure out one cup of root beer from a two-liter bottle for this easy recipe.
For The Garnish:
- A squirt of extra creamy whipped topping
- Maraschino cherry
- Chocolate sauce drizzled on the insides of the cup before adding the other ingredients, optional
Substitutions and Additions
Personalize your ice cream Root Beer Float recipe by swapping out ingredients and adding delicious extras! These simple changes can make your float uniquely yours. Here are some top substitutions and additions:
- Substitute Root Beer: Use cola, cream soda, or ginger ale for a different twist on your Root Beer Float.
- Substitute Vanilla Ice Cream: Try chocolate, coffee, or caramel ice cream to add a new flavor dimension.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle on chocolate chips or crushed cookies for an extra treat.
- Add Flavored Syrups: Drizzle toffee, butterscotch, or strawberry syrup to enhance the float's sweetness.
- Add Fresh Fruit: Top with cherries, strawberries, or bananas for a fruity kick.
How to Make A Root Beer Float
Follow along with our pictures, step-by-step instructions, and tips and tricks listed below. Let's get started on making this delicious Root Beer Float!
Pro Tip
A frosted beer mug works great as well. For extra frosty root beer floats, place the glass in the freezer for 15 minutes before making the drink.
FIRST STEP: In a 12-ounce (old-fashioned soda fountain style) glass, add three scoops of ice cream to the bottom of the glass.
I used a 1½ inch-sized cookie scoop for this. Note that if you tend to scoop large scoops, then only two scoops are needed.
Pro Tip
You can add a chocolate sauce drizzle to the inside of your glass if you want an over-the-top root beer float drink.
Just tilt your glass to the side at a slight angle and slowly drizzle the chocolate sauce as you turn your glass to get all the sides.
I like to use a traditional Hershey’s chocolate syrup for this.
SECOND STEP: While tilting the glass on its side, slowly pour the A&W root beer into the glass over the ice cream. Go slow to allow the fizz to dissipate as you pour.
Pro Tip
If you find that your root beer is giving off a lot of excess foam, you can use the straight side of a butter knife and scrape off the excess foam from the top of the glass into the sink.
You may have to do this a couple of times. This will ensure that your root beer float is not full of carbonated soda foam.
THIRD STEP: Place your glass upright and top with a garnish of whipped cream and a maraschino cherry.
You could also add a drizzle of chocolate syrup, caramel sauce, and shaved chocolate.
How to Serve A Root Beer Float
Serve this homemade Root Beer Float at summer parties, birthday celebrations, or family gatherings. Kids and adults both love this sweet, fizzy treat. Enjoy it any time of the year for a refreshing dessert!
- Summer Parties: Whip up Root Beer Floats for a refreshing summer party treat. Pair with BBQ sliders and fresh fruit salad for a perfect combo.
- Birthday Celebrations: Root Beer Floats make birthdays extra special. Serve them alongside cupcakes and apple fries for a fun, festive spread.
- Family Gatherings: Make family gatherings memorable with Root Beer Floats. Complement them with homemade burgers and a veggie platter for an enjoyable meal.
Why You'll Love This Root Beer Float Recipe
Root Beer Float is more than just a treat—it's a beloved favorite for several delightful reasons:
- A Classic Delight: This recipe perfectly blends creamy vanilla ice cream with fizzy root beer. Each sip and bite offer a refreshing, nostalgic experience.
- Perfect for Any Occasion :Root Beer Float suits summer parties, birthday celebrations, and family gatherings. Its versatility makes it a hit year-round.
- Loved by All Ages: Kids and adults both adore this sweet, fizzy delight. It's a timeless favorite that brings joy to everyone.
Root Beer Float isn't just delicious—it's a delightful classic that enhances any occasion. Enjoy this beloved treat and create sweet memories with every sip!
Recipe FAQ
What type of root beer works best for a Root Beer Float?
A creamy root beer like A&W or Barq's works best for a smooth and delicious float.
Can I use any other type of ice cream for a root beer ice cream float?
Yes, while vanilla is classic, chocolate, coffee, or caramel ice cream can add a fun twist.
How do I prevent the root beer from overflowing when making a float?
Pour the root beer slowly over the ice cream, and leave space at the top to avoid spills.
Can I make Root Beer Floats ahead of time?
It's best to make Root Beer Floats right before serving to enjoy the perfect combination of fizzy and creamy.
Serving FAQ
How should I serve Root Beer Floats at a party?
Serve Root Beer Floats in clear glasses with a straw and spoon for easy sipping and scooping.
Can I make Root Beer Floats in large batches for a crowd?
Yes, set up a Root Beer Float station with ice cream, root beer, and toppings for guests to create their own.
How do I keep the ice cream from melting too quickly in the floats?
Use chilled glasses whe making a root beer float, and serve immediately to keep the ice cream cold and the float refreshing.
What's the best way to garnish a Root Beer Float?
Top your Root Beer Float with whipped cream, a cherry, or sprinkles to make it extra special and fun.
Storage FAQ
Follow the directions, tips, and tricks below for optimal storage of your Root Beer Float. From making ahead to enjoying later, we’ve got you covered.
Can I prepare Root Beer Floats ahead of time?
It's best to make Root Beer Floats right before serving to keep the ice cream from melting.
What's the best way to store leftover Root Beer Floats?
Root Beer Floats are best enjoyed fresh. Leftovers may not maintain the same texture and flavor.
Can I freeze Root Beer Floats?
Freezing is not recommended, as the fizzy root beer and creamy ice cream will lose their texture.
Root Beer Float
Ingredients
Float
- 3 small scoops French vanilla ice cream
- 7.5 ounces mini can of A&W root beer (cold)
Garnish
- 1 squirt extra creamy whipped topping
- Maraschino cherry
- chocolate sauce drizzled on the insides of the cup before adding the other ingredients (optional)
DIRECTIONS
- In a 12-ounce (old-fashioned soda fountain style) glass, add the three scoops of French vanilla ice cream. I used a 1½ inch-sized cookie scoop for this. Note that if you tend to scoop large scoops, then only 2 scoops are needed.
- While tilting the glass on its side, slowly pour the A&W root beer into the glass over the ice cream. Go slow to allow the fizz to dissipate as you pour.
- Place your glass upright and top with a garnish of whipped cream and a maraschino cherry.
Notes
- I love keeping a 6-pack of mini soda cans in my refrigerator as they are great for single-serving cocktails or specialty drinks like this one. Alternatively, you can just measure out 1 cup of root beer from a 2-liter bottle for this easy recipe.
- A frosted beer mug works great as well. For extra frosty root beer floats, place the glass in the freezer for 15 minutes before making the drink.
- You can add a chocolate sauce drizzle to the inside of your glass if you want an over-the-top root beer float. Just tilt your glass to the side at a slight angle and slowly drizzle the chocolate sauce as you turn your glass to get all the sides. I like to use a traditional Hershey’s chocolate syrup for this.
- If you find that your root beer is giving off a lot of excess foam, you can use the back (straight side) of a butter knife and scrape off the excess foam from the top of the glass into the sink. You may have to do this a couple of times. This will ensure that your root beer float is not full of carbonated soda foam.
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