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Looking for a fun and delicious way to enjoy apple cider? Then you’ve got to try this Caramel Apple Cider Ice Cream Float!
Never had an ice cream float like this one? It’s the perfect blend of creamy vanilla ice cream, sweet caramel, and sparkling apple cider, all in one refreshing drink.
This one always gets the best reactions. People never expect it! Let me tell you that yes, sparkling apple cider definitely taste great with a scoop of ice cream.
Whether it’s a hot summer day or you’re just in the mood for something sweet, this float is super easy to make and guaranteed to bring a smile to your face.
All you need are a few simple ingredients, and in just a couple of minutes, you’ll have a dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
I love making this at holiday parties. I don’t know what it is. A soda float always makes people happy, though.
What I love most about this dessert is how versatile it is. You can keep it simple with just vanilla ice cream and apple cider, or you can get creative with different toppings and add-ins.
It’s a treat that’s perfect for special occasions, or just whatever. Let’s jump more into this recipe for our Ice Cream Float!
Some of our other favorite FUN DRINK RECIPES we have on our site include: Copycat Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte, Easy Frozen Strawberry Wine Slushies, and Copycat Chick-fil-A Frosted Lemonade.
WHY THIS RECIPE WORKS:
- Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this float is super easy to make, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of creamy vanilla ice cream, sweet caramel, and tart sparkling apple cider creates a flavor that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
- So Much Fun: Everyone has a blast when you pull these out. It’s a great twist on a classic!
INGREDIENTS NEEDED (SCROLL TO THE BOTTOM OF THIS POST FOR THE FULL RECIPE CARD):
- Caramel sauce
- Vanilla ice cream
- Sparkling apple cider
HOW TO MAKE ICE CREAM FLOAT:
- Drizzle ¼ of the caramel sauce into each glass.
- Add 2 scoops of ice cream to each glass.
- Pour the sparkling apple cider on top; depending on the size of the glass, you may not use it all.
- Drizzle each float with the remaining caramel sauce and serve.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS RECIPE:
WHAT KIND OF APPLE CIDER IS THE BEST TO USE?
For the best flavor, use a high-quality sparkling apple cider.
The bubbles add a fun, fizzy element to the float.
If you prefer a still version, regular apple cider or apple juice can also work well, but the sparkling variety really enhances the experience.
CAN I USE A DIFFERENT ICE CREAM?
Absolutely!
While vanilla ice cream is a classic choice, you can try using caramel ice cream or even chocolate ice cream for a richer flavor.
Check out my caramel ice cream recipe for a delicious homemade option!
ANY ADDITIONS?
You won’t find a more delicious dessert than this one.
Don’t hold back on the generous scoops of vanilla ice cream!
- A sprinkle of cinnamon: Add a dash of cinnamon on top for a warm, spicy flavor.
- Whipped cream: Top your float with a generous swirl of whipped cream for an extra creamy touch.
- A drizzle of chocolate syrup: For those who love chocolate, a drizzle of chocolate syrup adds a decadent twist.
- A maraschino cherry: Add a cherry on top for a classic soda fountain look.
- Ginger ale: Swap out the apple cider with ginger ale for a ginger-flavored float.
- Orange slice: Garnish with an orange slice for a pop of color and citrus flavor.
- Bourbon: For an adult version, add a splash of bourbon for a boozy float. Bourbon ice cream float? Yes, please!
- Strawberry ice cream: Try using strawberry ice cream for a fruity twist on the traditional flavor.
- Crushed graham crackers: Sprinkle crushed graham crackers on top for a bit of crunch.
- Caramel candies: Drop a few caramel candies into the float for a sweet surprise as they melt.
ANY SUBSTITUTIONS?
Ice cream float recipes don’t have to stick with the same old thing.
A scoop of vanilla ice cream goes a long way.
- Vanilla ice cream: Substitute with chocolate ice cream or caramel ice cream for a different flavor profile.
- Sparkling apple cider: Use regular apple cider or apple juice if you prefer a non-carbonated drink.
- Caramel sauce: Swap with chocolate syrup or even maple syrup for a unique taste.
- Maraschino cherry: If you don’t have maraschino cherries, a fresh cherry or berry can work as a garnish.
- Orange juice: Replace the apple cider with orange juice for a fruity variation on this float.
HOW TO STORE:
Refrigerator: If you have leftover apple cider, store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
The float itself is best enjoyed immediately after making, as the ice cream will melt quickly.
Freezer: The components of this float don’t store well once assembled, but you can freeze the vanilla ice cream and keep the caramel sauce in the fridge for future use.
Make sure to keep the sparkling apple cider in the fridge until you’re ready to use it again.
DANA’S TIPS AND TRICKS:
- Chill your glasses: For an extra frosty treat, chill your glasses in the freezer for about 10 minutes before making your floats.
- Use high-quality ice cream: The better the ice cream, the creamier and more delicious your float will be. Look for brands with fewer ingredients for the best results.
- Don’t overfill: When pouring the sparkling apple cider, go slowly to avoid overflowing, especially if your glass is already filled with ice cream.
- Experiment with flavors: Don’t be afraid to try different types of ice cream or soda to create your own unique float flavors.
- Serve immediately: These floats are best enjoyed right after making, while the ice cream is still cold and the cider is fizzy.
- Make it a party: Set up a float bar with different ice creams, sodas, and toppings so everyone can create their perfect float!
The Apple Cider Ice Cream Float is a fun, refreshing twist on the classic ice cream float.
Give it a try, and you might just find your new favorite treat!
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If you’ve tried this ICE CREAM FLOAT, let me know how it turned out in the comments! You can follow me over on PINTEREST, INSTAGRAM OR FACEBOOK to find some more of our mouthwatering recipes!
Caramel Apple Cider Ice Cream Float Recipe
Ingredients
- ¼ cup caramel sauce
- 4 scoops vanilla ice cream
- 25.4 ounce bottle sparkling apple cider
Instructions
- Drizzle ¼ of the caramel sauce into each glass.¼ cup caramel sauce
- Add 2 scoops of ice cream to each glass.4 scoops vanilla ice cream
- Pour the sparkling apple cider on top; depending on the size of the glass, you may not use it all.25.4 ounce bottle sparkling apple cider
- Drizzle each float with the remaining caramel sauce and serve.
Notes
- Chill your glasses: For an extra frosty treat, chill your glasses in the freezer for about 10 minutes before making your floats.
- Use high-quality ice cream: The better the ice cream, the creamier and more delicious your float will be. Look for brands with fewer ingredients for the best results.
- Don’t overfill: When pouring the sparkling apple cider, go slowly to avoid overflowing, especially if your glass is already filled with ice cream.
- Experiment with flavors: Don’t be afraid to try different types of ice cream or soda to create your own unique float flavors.
- Serve immediately: These floats are best enjoyed right after making, while the ice cream is still cold and the cider is fizzy.
- Make it a party: Set up a float bar with different ice creams, sodas, and toppings so everyone can create their perfect float!
Nutrition
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