Root Beer Float
A classic, creamy treat combining the fizzy sweetness of root beer with cold ice cream, perfect for summer days or nostalgic dessert moments enjoyed by all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour a can of root beer into a large glass.
- Add 1 or 2 scoops of your favorite ice cream into the glass with root beer.
- Top with whipped cream and a cherry, then enjoy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a perfect root beer float, chill your glass beforehand to keep the drink cold longer. You can experiment with different ice cream flavors like vanilla, chocolate, or even coffee for a twist. If you're looking for a lighter option, try using a sugar-free root beer and a low-fat ice cream. This recipe is a fantastic way to use leftover ice cream from desserts like Frost-On-The-Pumpkin Cake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your root beer float in a tall glass, garnished with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a cherry on top for a classic look. It pairs beautifully with sweet treats like Lillie'S Roll or Nut Nuggets for a fun dessert spread. Consider offering a variety of ice cream flavors for guests to customize their floats.
Storage & Reheating
Root beer floats are best enjoyed fresh, as the ice cream will melt and dilute the drink. However, if you have leftovers, store the components separately. Keep the root beer in the refrigerator and the ice cream in the freezer. When ready to enjoy again, combine them as before, but be aware the texture may change.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Root Beer Float contains roughly 10 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use diet root beer for this recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use diet root beer if you're looking to cut down on sugar. The flavor will still be enjoyable, and it pairs well with any type of ice cream. Just remember that the float might be less sweet than with regular root beer.
What is the best ice cream flavor for a root beer float?
Vanilla ice cream is the classic choice for root beer floats, as it complements the flavors of the root beer perfectly. However, you can try chocolate or even strawberry ice cream for a unique twist. Feel free to experiment with your favorites to find your perfect combination.
Can I make a root beer float for a crowd?
Absolutely! To serve a crowd, you can set up a float station with chilled glasses, root beer, and various ice cream flavors. Let guests create their own floats by adding their preferred amount of root beer and ice cream, topped with whipped cream and cherries for a festive touch.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).