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Ice cream floats are a timeless treat that bring a sense of nostalgia and fun to any occasion.
Whether you’re enjoying a hot summer day or simply seeking a sweet, indulgent dessert, an ice cream float provides the perfect combination of creamy ice cream and fizzy soda.
The beauty of ice cream floats lies in their versatility—there’s no limit to the flavors, sodas, and toppings you can combine to create your perfect float. From classic root beer floats to tropical creations and even daring combinations, these floats offer a unique way to indulge in a deliciously fizzy and creamy dessert.
In this blog, we’ve curated 33+ Ice Cream Float Recipes that will inspire you to mix, match, and enjoy this delightful treat in countless ways.
33+ Mouthwatering Ice Cream Float Recipes to Try This Summer
From classic favorites to bold new combinations, ice cream floats are an enjoyable and easy way to celebrate life’s sweet moments.
Whether you’re hosting a summer party, looking to impress guests, or simply treating yourself to something special, these 33+ Ice Cream Float Recipes offer a wide range of options to suit every taste.
Don’t hesitate to get creative with different sodas, ice creams, and garnishes to make your own signature float.
The possibilities are endless, and the satisfaction of sipping on a fizzy, creamy dessert is unbeatable. Grab your favorite ice cream and soda and start floating today!
Classic Root Beer Float
A Root Beer Float is a timeless treat that combines the rich, spicy flavor of root beer with the creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream. This recipe will take you back to a nostalgic summer day, offering a refreshing yet indulgent dessert. Whether you’re enjoying it alone or sharing it with friends, this float brings together two simple ingredients for a fun and easy dessert experience.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups root beer (chilled)
- 2 scoops vanilla ice cream
- Whipped cream (optional)
- Maraschino cherry (optional)
Instructions:
- Fill a tall glass halfway with chilled root beer.
- Add two generous scoops of vanilla ice cream to the glass.
- Pour additional root beer gently over the ice cream to fill the glass, letting it foam up.
- If desired, top with whipped cream and a maraschino cherry for a decorative touch.
- Serve immediately with a straw and spoon.
This Classic Root Beer Float is a delicious blend of bubbly and creamy, creating a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. It’s the perfect dessert to cool down with on a hot day or to enjoy during a cozy gathering with loved ones. The simplicity of this treat makes it easy to prepare, yet its charm is undeniable. Whether you are 5 or 50, this float is sure to bring a smile to your face and a taste of sweet nostalgia.
Orange Creamsicle Float
The Orange Creamsicle Float combines the bright, zesty flavors of orange soda with the velvety smoothness of vanilla ice cream. This variation on the classic float offers a citrusy twist that will transport your taste buds to a carefree summer day. Perfect for those who love the combination of fruity and creamy flavors, this float is a refreshing treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups orange soda (chilled)
- 2 scoops vanilla ice cream
- Orange zest (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Pour chilled orange soda into a tall glass, filling it halfway.
- Carefully add two scoops of vanilla ice cream into the glass.
- Slowly pour more orange soda over the ice cream, allowing the soda to foam up.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of orange zest, if desired, for a burst of extra citrus flavor.
- Serve immediately with a straw and spoon for a delightful sipping and scooping experience.
The Orange Creamsicle Float is a fun and flavorful twist on the traditional float, offering the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy. It’s an ideal choice for those who crave a fruity kick with their dessert while still enjoying the indulgence of ice cream. Whether you’re enjoying it on a sunny afternoon or sharing it at a party, this float adds a refreshing pop of color and flavor to any gathering, making it an unforgettable treat.
Chocolate Fudge Float
For chocolate lovers, the Chocolate Fudge Float is a decadent dessert that marries rich chocolate soda with creamy vanilla ice cream. Topped with gooey fudge and whipped cream, this float is a dream come true for anyone with a sweet tooth. It’s perfect for indulgent moments, offering a luxurious treat with a smooth, velvety texture and intense chocolate flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups chocolate soda (chilled)
- 2 scoops vanilla ice cream
- 2 tablespoons hot fudge sauce
- Whipped cream (optional)
- Chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Fill a glass halfway with chilled chocolate soda.
- Add two scoops of vanilla ice cream to the glass.
- Pour more chocolate soda over the ice cream, allowing the soda to foam.
- Drizzle hot fudge sauce over the top of the ice cream for a rich, chocolatey touch.
- Top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings if desired.
- Serve immediately with a straw and spoon.
The Chocolate Fudge Float is the ultimate indulgence for chocolate lovers. Its combination of fizzy chocolate soda and creamy ice cream, topped with rich fudge sauce, creates an irresistible dessert. It’s perfect for when you want something extra special—whether you’re treating yourself or sharing it with friends. With each sip and spoonful, this float offers a luxurious balance of flavors, making it an unforgettable dessert experience that will satisfy your sweetest cravings.
Strawberry Lemonade Float
This Strawberry Lemonade Float is a refreshing twist on the classic float, featuring the sweet, tangy flavor of strawberry lemonade paired with creamy vanilla ice cream. It’s a fun, fruity dessert that brings together the zesty freshness of lemonade with the smoothness of ice cream. Perfect for summer picnics or casual gatherings, this float will keep you coming back for more with its burst of fruity goodness and creamy texture.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups strawberry lemonade (chilled)
- 2 scoops vanilla ice cream
- Fresh strawberries (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Fill a tall glass halfway with chilled strawberry lemonade.
- Add two scoops of vanilla ice cream to the glass.
- Pour more strawberry lemonade slowly over the ice cream, allowing it to foam up.
- Garnish with fresh strawberries for a colorful, fruity touch.
- Serve immediately with a straw and spoon for a delightful treat.
e Strawberry Lemonade Float is a deliciously refreshing treat that combines the sweet tang of strawberry lemonade with the richness of vanilla ice cream. It’s perfect for warm weather or any time you need a light and refreshing dessert. The combination of flavors is vibrant, and the float is easy to make, making it a great option for parties or simple family fun. Each sip brings a burst of fruity and creamy perfection that’s sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings.
Pineapple Coconut Float
Escape to a tropical paradise with the Pineapple Coconut Float! This exotic dessert combines the sweet, tangy flavor of pineapple soda with the creamy richness of coconut ice cream. The addition of coconut flavor makes this float a delightful tropical treat, perfect for beach days or any time you want to bring a taste of the islands to your home.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups pineapple soda (chilled)
- 2 scoops coconut ice cream
- Toasted coconut flakes (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Pour chilled pineapple soda into a tall glass, filling it halfway.
- Add two scoops of coconut ice cream into the glass.
- Slowly pour more pineapple soda over the ice cream to allow the foam to rise.
- Garnish with toasted coconut flakes for an added tropical flair.
- Serve immediately with a straw and spoon.
The Pineapple Coconut Float is an incredibly refreshing and indulgent treat that transports you to a tropical paradise with every sip. The combination of sweet pineapple and creamy coconut brings a unique and satisfying flavor profile. Whether you’re enjoying it on a sunny day or sharing it with guests, this float is guaranteed to impress with its exotic flavors and creamy texture. It’s the perfect dessert for anyone craving a tropical escape!
Cherry Cola Float
For a nostalgic twist on a classic soda float, the Cherry Cola Float offers the sweet and fizzy taste of cherry cola paired with the smoothness of vanilla ice cream. The slight tanginess of the cherry cola enhances the richness of the ice cream, creating a satisfying treat that’s both fun and indulgent. This float is perfect for parties or as a special treat after a busy day.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cherry cola (chilled)
- 2 scoops vanilla ice cream
- Maraschino cherries (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Pour chilled cherry cola into a tall glass, filling it halfway.
- Add two scoops of vanilla ice cream into the glass.
- Slowly pour more cherry cola over the ice cream, letting the foam rise.
- Top with a maraschino cherry for garnish.
- Serve immediately with a straw and spoon.
The Cherry Cola Float is a deliciously sweet and fizzy dessert that brings together the best of both worlds. The creamy vanilla ice cream complements the fruity, fizzy cherry cola, creating a flavorful treat that will make you smile. Perfect for a casual evening or to add fun to a get-together, this float is a great way to enjoy the refreshing combination of soda and ice cream in a whole new way.
Peach Iced Tea Float
The Peach Iced Tea Float is an elegant blend of smooth, refreshing peach iced tea with creamy vanilla ice cream. This float is a more sophisticated take on traditional floats, offering a fruity and slightly floral flavor with the creaminess of the ice cream. It’s perfect for a warm afternoon or any time you’re looking for a lighter yet indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups peach iced tea (chilled)
- 2 scoops vanilla ice cream
- Fresh peach slices (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Fill a glass halfway with chilled peach iced tea.
- Add two scoops of vanilla ice cream into the glass.
- Pour more peach iced tea over the ice cream, allowing it to foam up.
- Garnish with fresh peach slices for an added touch of fruitiness.
- Serve immediately with a straw and spoon.
The Peach Iced Tea Float offers a refined, fruity twist on the traditional float, combining the sweetness of peach with the smoothness of vanilla ice cream. It’s the ideal dessert for anyone who loves fruit-based treats and wants something light yet satisfying. The refreshing iced tea, paired with the creamy ice cream, makes this float a delightful option for any occasion, whether a casual picnic or a special gathering.
Blueberry Lemon Float
The Blueberry Lemon Float is a vibrant and refreshing treat that pairs the sweet-tart flavor of blueberry soda with tangy lemon ice cream. This float is an explosion of fruity flavors and creamy textures, creating a dessert that feels both decadent and refreshing. Perfect for berry lovers, it’s a fun and colorful treat that’s sure to brighten up any day.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups blueberry soda (chilled)
- 2 scoops lemon ice cream
- Fresh blueberries (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Pour chilled blueberry soda into a tall glass, filling it halfway.
- Add two scoops of lemon ice cream into the glass.
- Slowly pour more blueberry soda over the ice cream, letting it foam up.
- Garnish with fresh blueberries for a burst of color.
- Serve immediately with a straw and spoon.
The Blueberry Lemon Float is a fun, fruity dessert that balances the sweetness of blueberry soda with the tartness of lemon ice cream. This float brings together two classic fruit flavors in a way that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Perfect for summer parties or casual snacking, it’s a playful dessert that will delight anyone looking for a unique twist on traditional floats.
Ginger Ale Float
For those who love a bit of spice, the Ginger Ale Float combines the warm, slightly spicy flavor of ginger ale with the creaminess of vanilla ice cream. The fizzy ginger ale gives this float a unique bite, while the ice cream adds a rich smoothness, creating a surprisingly harmonious dessert. It’s a refreshing treat that’s perfect for a variety of occasions.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups ginger ale (chilled)
- 2 scoops vanilla ice cream
- Crystallized ginger (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Fill a glass halfway with chilled ginger ale.
- Add two scoops of vanilla ice cream into the glass.
- Slowly pour more ginger ale over the ice cream, allowing the soda to foam.
- Garnish with a few pieces of crystallized ginger for a sweet-spicy touch.
- Serve immediately with a straw and spoon.
The Ginger Ale Float is a delightful mix of spicy and creamy, offering a unique twist on traditional floats. The ginger ale adds a pleasant fizz and spice, while the vanilla ice cream creates a smooth, indulgent contrast. This float is perfect for anyone looking for something a little different, providing a refreshing yet satisfying treat that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.
Kiwi Lime Float
The Kiwi Lime Float is a tangy and tropical treat that pairs the vibrant flavor of kiwi soda with the tartness of lime ice cream. This float is bright and refreshing, with a perfect balance of fruity and creamy flavors. It’s the ideal choice for anyone looking for a lively, tropical-inspired dessert that’s both unique and delicious.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups kiwi soda (chilled)
- 2 scoops lime ice cream
- Fresh kiwi slices (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Pour chilled kiwi soda into a tall glass, filling it halfway.
- Add two scoops of lime ice cream into the glass.
- Slowly pour more kiwi soda over the ice cream, allowing the foam to rise.
- Garnish with fresh kiwi slices for added flair.
- Serve immediately with a straw and spoon.
The Kiwi Lime Float is a tangy, refreshing treat that’s perfect for those who love fruity desserts. The combination of kiwi soda and lime ice cream is both zesty and creamy, making it a wonderfully unique dessert. Whether served at a tropical-themed party or as a fun treat after dinner, this float is guaranteed to impress with its burst of vibrant flavors.
Apple Cider Float
For a cozy, fall-inspired twist on the classic float, the Apple Cider Float combines the sweet, spiced flavor of apple cider with creamy vanilla ice cream. This comforting float is perfect for autumn and colder months, providing the warmth of cider with the smoothness of ice cream. Whether enjoyed by the fire or at a fall gathering, this float is the ultimate seasonal treat.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups apple cider (chilled or warmed, depending on preference)
- 2 scoops vanilla ice cream
- Cinnamon stick (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Pour chilled or warmed apple cider into a tall glass, filling it halfway.
- Add two scoops of vanilla ice cream into the glass.
- Slowly pour more apple cider over the ice cream, allowing it to foam up.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick for an added touch of warmth and flavor.
- Serve immediately with a straw and spoon.
The Apple Cider Float is the perfect dessert to enjoy during the fall season, combining the flavors of warm apple cider and creamy ice cream. It’s an indulgent yet cozy treat, ideal for chilly evenings or autumn gatherings. The balance of spice and sweetness, along with the creamy texture, makes this float a comforting and satisfying option for any occasion.
Watermelon Lime Float
A refreshing summer treat, the Watermelon Lime Float combines the sweet juiciness of watermelon soda with the tangy creaminess of lime ice cream. This float is a perfect balance of fruity and creamy flavors, making it an ideal choice for hot summer days, picnics, or any casual get-together. The watermelon soda offers a refreshing burst, while the lime ice cream adds a zingy twist to this fun, colorful float.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups watermelon soda (chilled)
- 2 scoops lime ice cream
- Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Fill a tall glass halfway with chilled watermelon soda.
- Add two scoops of lime ice cream into the glass.
- Slowly pour more watermelon soda over the ice cream to create a foamy effect.
- Garnish with a few fresh mint leaves for a touch of freshness.
- Serve immediately with a straw and spoon.
The Watermelon Lime Float is a vibrant and refreshing treat that brings a burst of flavor to any occasion. The sweet, hydrating watermelon soda combined with the zesty lime ice cream creates a balanced, fruity experience that’s perfect for cooling down during summer. It’s a fun and easy dessert that everyone will enjoy, offering a light, creamy indulgence with a tangy twist.
Root Beer Float with a Twist
A twist on the classic, this Root Beer Float with a Twist incorporates a splash of vanilla extract and caramel syrup to elevate the traditional root beer float. The richness of caramel and the deep flavors of root beer enhance the creamy vanilla ice cream, making it an even more indulgent treat. This float is perfect for fans of root beer who are looking for a fun new way to enjoy the beloved dessert.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups root beer (chilled)
- 2 scoops vanilla ice cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp caramel syrup (optional)
Instructions:
- Pour chilled root beer into a tall glass, filling it halfway.
- Add two scoops of vanilla ice cream into the glass.
- Pour more root beer over the ice cream slowly, letting the foam rise.
- Stir in vanilla extract and a drizzle of caramel syrup to add richness and depth.
- Serve immediately with a straw and spoon.
Root Beer Float with a Twist takes the classic dessert to the next level with the addition of vanilla extract and caramel syrup. This enhanced version brings out a richer, more complex flavor profile that’s perfect for root beer lovers. It’s a comforting, indulgent dessert that’s sure to become a new favorite and is an excellent choice for casual gatherings or cozy nights in.
Blackberry Lemonade Float
The Blackberry Lemonade Float combines the tartness of lemonade with the rich, fruity taste of blackberry soda and creamy vanilla ice cream. This float is both refreshing and indulgent, with the blackberry soda adding a delightful fruity twist. It’s perfect for a summer gathering or a relaxing afternoon dessert, offering a combination of tangy and sweet flavors that will leave everyone satisfied.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups blackberry lemonade soda (chilled)
- 2 scoops vanilla ice cream
- Fresh blackberries (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Fill a tall glass halfway with chilled blackberry lemonade soda.
- Add two scoops of vanilla ice cream into the glass.
- Slowly pour more blackberry lemonade soda over the ice cream to create a foamy top.
- Garnish with fresh blackberries for an added burst of flavor.
- Serve immediately with a straw and spoon.
The Blackberry Lemonade Float is an exciting and flavorful dessert that brings together the tang of lemonade, the sweetness of blackberry soda, and the creamy smoothness of vanilla ice cream. This float is perfect for any occasion, from summer barbecues to casual evenings, offering a refreshing and indulgent treat with a beautiful blend of fruity and creamy flavors.
Orange Creamsicle Float
The Orange Creamsicle Float recreates the nostalgic flavor of an orange creamsicle, combining orange soda with rich vanilla ice cream. This float brings back childhood memories with its creamy, citrusy flavor that’s both sweet and tangy. It’s a delightful treat for all ages and is perfect for any casual gathering, offering a refreshing twist on the classic float.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups orange soda (chilled)
- 2 scoops vanilla ice cream
- Orange zest (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Pour chilled orange soda into a tall glass, filling it halfway.
- Add two scoops of vanilla ice cream into the glass.
- Slowly pour more orange soda over the ice cream, letting it foam up.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of orange zest for extra flavor.
- Serve immediately with a straw and spoon.
The Orange Creamsicle Float is the perfect way to indulge in a nostalgic flavor combination of orange and vanilla. The tangy orange soda and creamy vanilla ice cream work together beautifully, creating a float that’s both refreshing and rich. It’s a simple yet satisfying treat that will remind you of carefree summer days, making it a go-to dessert for both children and adults.
Coconut Pineapple Float
The Coconut Pineapple Float is a tropical dream come true, combining pineapple soda with coconut ice cream for a creamy and exotic dessert. The coconut flavor complements the sweet and tangy pineapple soda perfectly, creating a rich yet refreshing float. This is the perfect treat for anyone who craves tropical flavors and wants to escape to an island paradise with every sip.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups pineapple soda (chilled)
- 2 scoops coconut ice cream
- Pineapple slices (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Fill a tall glass halfway with chilled pineapple soda.
- Add two scoops of coconut ice cream into the glass.
- Slowly pour more pineapple soda over the ice cream to create a foamy effect.
- Garnish with pineapple slices for a fun, tropical touch.
- Serve immediately with a straw and spoon.
The Coconut Pineapple Float transports you to the tropics with its sweet pineapple soda and creamy coconut ice cream. This float is both refreshing and indulgent, offering a satisfying tropical escape in every sip. It’s a wonderful dessert for warm days or beach-themed parties and is sure to impress with its exotic flavors.
Espresso Float
For coffee lovers, the Espresso Float is the perfect dessert, combining the bold flavors of espresso with the smoothness of vanilla ice cream. This float gives you the best of both worlds, offering the rich, slightly bitter taste of espresso paired with creamy vanilla ice cream for a balanced, indulgent treat. It’s an excellent choice for coffee enthusiasts looking for a unique, sweet coffee experience.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups brewed espresso (chilled)
- 2 scoops vanilla ice cream
- Cocoa powder (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Pour chilled espresso into a tall glass, filling it halfway.
- Add two scoops of vanilla ice cream into the glass.
- Slowly pour more espresso over the ice cream to allow the foam to form.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of cocoa powder for added flavor.
- Serve immediately with a straw and spoon.
The Espresso Float is a perfect dessert for coffee aficionados, combining the boldness of espresso with the sweetness of ice cream. It’s a unique treat that combines your love for coffee with the indulgence of a float. Whether you’re looking to enjoy it after dinner or share it with friends, this float is sure to satisfy your coffee cravings with a twist.
Cherry Lemonade Float
The Cherry Lemonade Float is a refreshing and tart float that combines the tangy flavor of lemonade with the sweet, slightly sour taste of cherry soda. The addition of vanilla ice cream adds richness and creaminess, making this float the perfect balance of flavors. It’s a delightful summer treat, especially for those who enjoy fruity, fizzy beverages.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cherry lemonade soda (chilled)
- 2 scoops vanilla ice cream
- Maraschino cherries (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Pour chilled cherry lemonade soda into a tall glass, filling it halfway.
- Add two scoops of vanilla ice cream into the glass.
- Slowly pour more cherry lemonade soda over the ice cream, allowing the foam to rise.
- Garnish with maraschino cherries for added sweetness.
- Serve immediately with a straw and spoon.
The Cherry Lemonade Float is a fun, fruity treat that’s perfect for hot summer days. The tangy lemonade soda and sweet cherry flavor pair wonderfully with creamy vanilla ice cream. This float is refreshing, bubbly, and indulgent, making it an ideal dessert for any occasion, especially when you want something light and fruity to enjoy with friends and family.
Black Cherry Vanilla Float
The Black Cherry Vanilla Float is a sophisticated spin on the classic float, featuring black cherry soda and creamy vanilla ice cream. The richness of the vanilla ice cream complements the deep, fruity flavor of the black cherry soda, creating a smooth, indulgent dessert. This float is perfect for those who want to enjoy a slightly richer, more complex version of the traditional float.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups black cherry soda (chilled)
- 2 scoops vanilla ice cream
- Fresh cherries (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Fill a tall glass halfway with chilled black cherry soda.
- Add two scoops of vanilla ice cream into the glass.
- Slowly pour more black cherry soda over the ice cream, letting the foam form.
- Garnish with fresh cherries for a burst of flavor.
- Serve immediately with a straw and spoon.
The Black Cherry Vanilla Float is a richer take on the classic float, with the deep flavors of black cherry soda and the smoothness of vanilla ice cream. This float is perfect for anyone who enjoys a more sophisticated dessert, offering a balance of sweet and slightly tart flavors. It’s a great treat for dinner parties or special occasions when you want to wow your guests with a flavorful, indulgent treat.
Lime Sherbet Ginger Ale Float
The Lime Sherbet Ginger Ale Float is a refreshing and lightly tangy dessert that combines the fizz of ginger ale with the smooth, citrusy flavor of lime sherbet. This float is a lighter, more refreshing take on the traditional float, with the ginger ale offering a slightly spicy kick while the lime sherbet provides a creamy, tangy contrast. Perfect for a refreshing treat on a hot day!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups ginger ale (chilled)
- 2 scoops lime sherbet
- Lime zest (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Pour chilled ginger ale into a tall glass, filling it halfway.
- Add two scoops of lime sherbet into the glass.
- Slowly pour more ginger ale over the sherbet to create a foamy effect.
- Garnish with lime zest for extra zing.
- Serve immediately with a straw and spoon.
The Lime Sherbet Ginger Ale Float is a refreshing, bubbly treat that combines the citrusy tang of lime sherbet with the spicy effervescence of ginger ale. It’s perfect for anyone seeking a light and fizzy dessert that still has a creamy texture. This float is ideal for hot days when you need a refreshing pick-me-up or a fun, fruity drink to share with friends.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!