Few drinks bring back nostalgic memories quite like a root beer float. With its foamy top, creamy core, and fizzy bite, this iconic American treat blends soda and ice cream into a delightful experience. Whether you’re sipping it on a hot summer day or serving it as a fun dessert, root beer floats never go out of style.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
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Easy to Make – Just two ingredients and zero prep time.
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Perfect for All Ages – Loved by kids and adults alike.
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Versatile – Can be customized with different flavors and toppings.
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Ideal for Parties – A crowd-pleaser that’s simple to scale up.
What is a Root Beer Float?
A root beer float is a fizzy drink-dessert hybrid made by combining root beer and vanilla ice cream. When the soda meets the ice cream, it creates a foamy, bubbly head that’s fun to watch and delicious to sip. This American creation has stood the test of time and continues to be a staple at diners and ice cream shops.
History of the Root Beer Float
Also known as a “black cow,” the root beer float was invented in the late 19th century. Frank Wisner, owner of Cripple Creek Brewing in Colorado, created it in 1893. Inspired by the snowy peaks of Cow Mountain, he added a scoop of vanilla ice cream to root beer and served it to customers. The result was an instant hit.
Ingredients List
Here’s all you need to make a classic root beer float:
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2 scoops vanilla ice cream
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1 cup chilled root beer
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Optional toppings: whipped cream, maraschino cherry, chocolate syrup, or crushed cookies
Timing & Servings
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Prep Time: 5 minutes
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Total Time: 5 minutes
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Servings: 1
Step-by-Step Instructions for Root Beer Float
Step 1: Chill the Glass
For the best experience, place your glass in the freezer for 10-15 minutes beforehand. A frosty mug keeps the float colder longer and enhances the presentation.
Step 2: Scoop the Ice Cream
Add 2 generous scoops of vanilla ice cream into the chilled glass. Softened ice cream scoops more easily and melds with the soda better.
Step 3: Pour the Root Beer
Slowly pour cold root beer over the ice cream. Pouring slowly avoids overflow and ensures a thick, foamy head.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Top your float with whipped cream, a cherry, or any topping you like. Serve immediately with a straw and a spoon.
Tips for the Best Root Beer Float
Use High-Quality Ice Cream
Choose a rich, creamy vanilla ice cream for the best texture and flavor. Premium brands deliver better taste and less iciness.
Pour Slowly
Adding soda too fast causes the float to foam up and overflow. Pour slowly down the side of the glass.
Keep Everything Cold
Chill the glass, ice cream, and root beer before assembling to prevent rapid melting and ensure a refreshing experience.
Variations to Try
Chocolate Root Beer Float
Use chocolate ice cream for a deeper, richer flavor. The slight bitterness of the chocolate pairs nicely with the sweetness of the root beer.
Caramel Root Beer Float
Add a drizzle of caramel sauce over the top and mix in caramel-flavored ice cream for a sweet twist.
Boozy Root Beer Float
Make it adult-friendly by adding a splash of vanilla vodka, bourbon, or spiced rum.
Root Beer Float Ice Cream Float Bar
For parties, create a float bar with different soda flavors (like cola, orange soda, or cream soda) and a variety of ice creams. Let guests mix and match.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve in a tall frosted glass or mason jar for visual appeal.
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Provide both a straw and a long spoon.
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Pair with salty snacks like popcorn or pretzels for contrast.
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Perfect as a dessert after a burger or hot dog meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
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Calories: ~280
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Fat: 10g
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Carbohydrates: 44g
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Sugar: 36g
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Protein: 4g
Note: These numbers vary depending on your brand of ice cream and root beer.
Make Ahead Tips
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You can scoop the ice cream in advance and freeze the scoops on a tray.
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Keep your root beer chilled until right before serving.
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Avoid pre-assembling the float as it loses its fizzy and foamy appeal over time.
Storing Leftovers
Root beer floats are best enjoyed fresh. If left sitting, the soda will go flat and the ice cream will melt. If you do need to store it, cover and refrigerate for no more than 30 minutes, but know the texture will be compromised.
Pairing with Food
A root beer float goes well with classic American comfort foods:
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Cheeseburgers or sliders
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BBQ chicken or ribs
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Corn dogs
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French fries or tater tots
Its sweetness and carbonation help cleanse the palate between bites of savory food.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Using warm root beer: This melts the ice cream quickly and ruins the float.
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Pouring too fast: Causes overflow and mess.
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Serving in a warm glass: Makes the ice cream melt faster and flattens the foam.
Fun Facts About Root Beer Floats
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August 6 is National Root Beer Float Day in the United States.
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Some diners serve floats with two straws as a romantic dessert for couples.
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The original name “Black Cow” came from the float’s dark appearance when chocolate ice cream was used.
FAQs
Can I use diet root beer?
Yes, you can use diet root beer if you’re watching sugar intake. However, some diet sodas may foam less and taste slightly different.
Can I make a float with other sodas?
Absolutely! Cola, orange soda, and grape soda also work well for floats.
What kind of ice cream is best?
Classic vanilla is traditional, but you can use any flavor you like—try butter pecan, cookies and cream, or chocolate chip.
Is it okay to use dairy-free ice cream?
Yes. Plant-based ice creams like almond, coconut, or oat milk varieties can be used for a vegan float.
Can I make it ahead?
It’s best to assemble just before serving. You can prep scooped ice cream in advance but wait to add the soda.
Conclusion
A root beer float is more than just a drink—it’s a nostalgic experience in a glass. With only two ingredients and limitless variations, it’s perfect for everything from family BBQs to weeknight treats. Whether you enjoy it the traditional way or customize it with toppings and twists, the root beer float delivers refreshment and delight in every sip. So grab a tall glass, your favorite root beer, and some creamy vanilla ice cream—and enjoy the fizzy, frothy magic of this classic treat.