Ice Cream Float – Quick 2-Ingredient Old-Fashioned Recipe
Introduction
Welcome to the world of creamy, fizzy delights! Today, we’re diving into the classic ice cream float, a timeless treat that’s as simple as it is delicious. This homemade ice cream soda recipe classic dessert drinks quick float for summer easy ice cream float party soda float old-fashioned treat floats is perfect for those hot summer days when you need a refreshing pick-me-up. With just two ingredients and a few minutes of your time, you’ll be sipping on nostalgia in no time!

Why is it Perfect for You?
The ice cream float is a versatile dessert drink that caters to all ages and occasions. It’s perfect for:
◾ Quick summer refreshments
◾ Kids’ birthday parties
◾ Casual gatherings with friends
◾ A sweet treat after dinner
◾ Nostalgic indulgence
Its simplicity and customizability make it a go-to recipe for both novice and experienced home cooks.
Ingredients List
For this classic ice cream float, you’ll need:
◾ 2 scoops of vanilla ice cream
◾ 1 cup of root beer (or your preferred soda)
Optional garnishes:
◾ Whipped cream
◾ Maraschino cherry
◾ Chocolate syrup
Preparation Time and Servings
Prep Time: 2 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Glass
Choose a tall glass that can comfortably hold your ice cream and soda. If you’re feeling fancy, chill the glass in the freezer for a few minutes before use. This will help keep your float colder for longer.
Step 2: Add the Ice Cream
Scoop two generous balls of vanilla ice cream into your glass. Don’t be shy – the ice cream is the star of this show! For an extra creamy float, let the ice cream soften slightly at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping.
Step 3: Pour in the Soda
Slowly pour the root beer (or your chosen soda) over the ice cream. The key here is to pour gently to create that signature frothy top. As the soda hits the ice cream, it will create a creamy foam that’s irresistible.
Step 4: Let it Settle
Give your float a moment to settle. The foam will rise to the top, creating that classic ice cream float look. This brief pause also allows the flavors to meld together perfectly.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
If desired, top your float with a dollop of whipped cream, a maraschino cherry, or a drizzle of chocolate syrup. Serve immediately with a long spoon and a straw for the ultimate ice cream float experience.
Nutritional Information
While this treat is undoubtedly indulgent, it’s important to enjoy it in moderation. The nutritional content can vary based on the specific brands and amounts used, but here’s a general breakdown:
◾ Calories: Approximately 300-400 per serving
◾ Fat: 10-15g
◾ Carbohydrates: 50-60g
◾ Protein: 3-5g
Calories per Person
Each ice cream float typically contains between 300-400 calories, depending on the size of your ice cream scoops and the type of soda used.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
For a lighter version of this classic treat, consider these alternatives:
◾ Use low-fat or non-dairy ice cream
◾ Opt for sugar-free soda
◾ Replace half the ice cream with frozen yogurt
◾ Use sparkling water with a splash of fruit juice instead of soda
Serving Suggestions
Enhance your ice cream float experience with these serving ideas:
◾ Serve in a frosted mug for extra chill
◾ Pair with a crispy cookie for texture contrast
◾ Create a float bar with various ice cream flavors and sodas for customization
◾ Garnish with fresh fruit for a burst of color and flavor
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your ice cream float is perfect every time, avoid these common pitfalls:
◾ Using warm glasses, which can melt the ice cream too quickly
◾ Pouring the soda too fast, which can cause excessive foaming
◾ Using ice cream that’s too hard, making it difficult to mix with the soda
◾ Forgetting to provide both a spoon and a straw for proper enjoyment
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Ice cream floats are best enjoyed immediately after preparation. However, if you need to store components:
◾ Keep ice cream in the freezer until ready to use
◾ Store unopened soda at room temperature or in the refrigerator
◾ Prepare individual components separately and assemble just before serving
FAQs
Can I use any type of soda for an ice cream float?
Yes! While root beer is traditional, you can experiment with any soda you like. Cola, cream soda, and even fruit-flavored sodas work well.
What’s the best ice cream to use for floats?
Vanilla is classic, but feel free to experiment. Chocolate, strawberry, or even mint chocolate chip can create delicious variations.
Can I make an ice cream float without dairy?
Absolutely! Use dairy-free ice cream alternatives and your favorite soda for a vegan-friendly version.
How can I prevent my float from overflowing?
Pour the soda slowly and use a larger glass than you think you’ll need to accommodate the foam.
Conclusion
The ice cream float is more than just a drink – it’s a trip down memory lane, a summer tradition, and a delightful treat all in one glass. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation, it’s the perfect way to cool down and indulge. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with flavors, the ice cream float is sure to bring smiles all around. So grab your favorite ice cream and soda, and let’s float away to dessert paradise!
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Share your experience with us
OOLALA
This turned out so awesome they look like they came from a exspensive bakery.
Just a question
So what about the grease from the meat? Should I use the leanest meats or is the grease give more flavor.
What about a meatloaf on top of veggies ? Would that work?
Ingredients list good, directions lacking
There were great details on quantities of ingredients I should use, but the recipe didn’t tell me the cook time. Also, mentioned in the section about “common mistakes” that you need to let it chill enough but doesn’t direct you in the recipe that you need to let it chill. More details would be helpful
Dressing is perfect!
Not a big fan of mayo, loved the Greek yogurt swap. Reduced garlic a bit. Dressing was delish!
Best coffee cake- ever!!
This recipe was not the easiest to follow due to how it was written. It requires a lot of back and forth from instructions to the lists of ingredients but oh, hey, the end result is totally worth the effort! Mouthwatering and delicious plus it’s a pretty presentation.








