Tropical Float

Prep: 15 min Cuisine: American

A refreshing frozen dessert combining tropical fruit flavors with a fluffy texture, perfect for hot days or casual gatherings, appealing to fruit lovers and those seeking cool treats.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 8 1/2 oz. can crushed pineapple with juice
  • 2 cups mashed bananas
  • 2 cups orange juice
  • 2 Tbsp. lemon juice
  • 1 cup sugar
  • dash of salt
  • 12 maraschino cherries, chopped

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients and place in 2 refrigerator trays or a shallow pan.
  2. Freeze until almost solid.
  3. Remove from freezer and beat until fluffy.
  4. Return to freezer for several hours before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a sweeter float, consider using ripe bananas and adjusting the sugar to taste. If you want a lighter version, substitute some of the sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. You can also experiment with other fruits like mango or coconut for a different tropical flavor. Make sure to whip the mixture until fluffy for a light texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Tropical Float in tall glasses, garnished with a maraschino cherry and a slice of banana for an appealing presentation. It pairs beautifully with a side of Yummy Yum Yum Bars for a delightful dessert spread at summer gatherings. Consider topping with shredded coconut for added texture and flavor.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer. This treat can be kept for up to a week. To enjoy it later, simply allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving, or slightly soften it in the fridge to achieve the desired consistency.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Tropical Float contains roughly 234 calories, with 3g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (56% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1788mg per serving (78% of the Daily Value).

234 kcal 12% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.5g 7% DV
Total Fat 0.8g 1% DV
Carbs 58.1g 21% DV
Fiber 6.2g 22% DV
Sugar 24.5g 49% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1788.2mg 78% DV
Potassium 826.4mg 18% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 9.2mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 50.5mg 56% DV
Calcium 41.4mg 3% DV
Iron 0.9mg 5% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal Low-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 fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but make sure to crush it and include the juice for the right consistency and flavor. Fresh pineapple may provide a brighter taste and is a great option if you prefer to avoid canned products.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

Yes, this Tropical Float is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products. Just ensure that the sugar you use is vegan-friendly, as some sugars are processed with bone char. You can also substitute orange juice with a fresh squeeze for even more vibrant flavor.

How can I make this recipe more colorful?

To add more color to your Tropical Float, consider mixing in diced strawberries or blueberries before freezing. These fruits not only enhance the visual appeal but also bring additional flavor and nutrition. A vibrant presentation will make it even more inviting at gatherings!

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).

American recipes → Vegan recipes → Vegetarian recipes → All recipes →