Root Beer Float
Why this recipe works
- Ready in minutes: With only chilled root beer and vanilla ice cream, the float can be assembled to order with no cooking.
- Creamy, foamy texture: The soda reacts with the ice cream to create a frothy head and a creamy drink as it melts.
- Cold and refreshing: Well-chilled root beer keeps the float fizzy, while the ice cream adds richness without needing extra ingredients.
Get the most out of this recipe
Timing notes
- Serve immediately: A root beer float is at its best just after pouring, while the foam is active and the ice cream still holds its shape.
Texture tips
- For a thicker float: Use a little more ice cream and pour in the root beer gradually so the drink stays creamy rather than thin.
- Control the foam: Pour the root beer slowly down the side of the glass and pause if it rises too quickly.
Ingredient swaps
- Try a cola float: Replace the root beer with chilled cola for a sweeter, more familiar soda-fountain variation.
- Use chocolate ice cream: Chocolate ice cream makes the float richer and more dessert-like while keeping the same simple method.
Make-ahead tips
- Keep components cold: Chill the root beer and glasses ahead of time, then scoop and pour only when ready to serve.
Equipment you'll need
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chill a tall glass in the freezer for 2 minutes, if you like, to help the float stay colder for longer. Scoop the vanilla ice cream into the glass.
- Slowly pour the chilled root beer down the side of the glass so it fizzes up and foams around the ice cream. Pause briefly if it rises too high, then top up.
- Serve immediately with a spoon and straw, and enjoy while the ice cream is still thick and the foam is lively.
Recipe notes
Tips
- Pour the root beer slowly down the inside of the glass to control the foam and avoid overflow.
- For a thicker float, add an extra small scoop of vanilla ice cream and reduce the root beer slightly.
Substitutions
- Replace vanilla ice cream with chocolate ice cream for a richer, more dessert-like float.
- Replace root beer with cola soda for a classic cola float.
Storage
- Refrigerate up to 1 days
- Best made and served straight away. If it sits, the ice cream melts and the drink goes flat; if needed, keep the root beer chilled in the fridge and scoop fresh ice cream to order.
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Recipe overview
- Servings: 1 glasses
- Total time: 5min (5min active)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cuisine: American
-
Allergens:
Milk
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