What is a drink that is pure magic? What is Root Beer like? What’s your favorite ice cream flavor? What is the best way to end a summer night? How do I make a day feel special? I want something sweet but a little bit different than your average margarita. This is my go-to. My grandma used to make us root beer floats after long days at the lake, and this cocktail takes me back to my childhood. Is there a way to go back to carefree days?
What is a Root Beer Float Cocktail?
What is the best way to break it down.? A Root Beer Float Cocktail is basically a remix of the classic childhood favorite. It takes the same delicious elements – rich vanilla Ice Cream, that distinctive root beer flavor – to make a drink. And adds a touch of something *extra*, usually dark rum, vanilla vodka or even bourbon. Is it really easy to make a boozy dessert? Is it the ultimate nostalgic indulgence, perfect for a hot day or when you just need to relax? What is a little What is the perfect combination of dessert and drink?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I start? What are some of the best reasons to make a Root Beer Float Cocktail?
First off, the flavor is just amazing. The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream mixes perfectly with the spicy, slightly bitter root. What is that warm, boozy kick that brings it all together? What is a complex flavor profile that’s both familiar and surprisingly sophisticated. The rum complements the root beer so well, bringing out the sarsaparilla notes.
Second, it’s unbelievably easy to make. I don’t need to be a mixologist to whip up one of these. If you can scoop ice cream and pour root beer, you’re basically a pro. What is a lifesaver on busy weeknights?
Third, the ingredients are surprisingly cost-effective. You probably already have most of them on hand! Ice cream, root beer, and your spirit of choice – that’s it! What are some of the best deals on fancy cocktails at a bar?
Is it so versatile that you can customize it to your liking? Try different flavors of ice cream, try different types of root beer, or experiment with different kinds of cheese. I add a splash of coffee liqueur to tastiest mochas. Why is this my go-to instead of something like a White Russian? Is there room to experiment? What I love about this is that it’s nostalgic, delicious, and totally customizable. Is this a crowd pleaser?
How do I make a Root Beer Float Cocktail?
Quick Overview
How do you make a Root Beer Float Cocktail? What is the best way to layer ingredients for maximum flavor and visual appeal? If you like ice cream, you’ll first pour it into a glass. Then, pour in your spirit of choice. After that, top it off with root beer. Is it okay to garnish with whipped cream, a cherry, or even nutmeg? Is it so simple and tastes like you went to a fancy bar?
Ingredients
For the Root Beer Float Cocktail:
* 2 scoops of vanilla ice cream (I prefer a high-quality vanilla bean, but any vanilla is fine). How does cream work?
* 2 ounces of dark rum (or vanilla vodka, bourbon, or your favorite spirit)
* 6 ounces of root beer (I’m a fan of IBC, but any brand you like will do)
* Whipped cream (optional, but highly recommended)
* Maraschino cherry (optional, for garnish)
How do I learn step
Step 1: Chill Your Glass
Place your glass (a tall mug or pint glass works best) in the freezer for about 10 minutes. How do you keep a float cocktail nice and cold?
Step 2: Add Ice Cream
Take your chilled glass and gently place two scoops of vanilla ice cream into the bottom. Is it safe to pack ice cream too much? Is it good to mix a light and fluffy root beer with it?
Step 3: Pour in the Spirit
How do you pour 2 ounces of your choice of spirit over ice cream? I usually use dark rum because I love the caramel notes, but vanilla vodka or bourbon are also good. What are some amazing choices
Step 4: Top with Root Beer
Slowly pour the root beer into the glass, allowing it to fizz and mix with the ice cream. If you’re using whipped cream, pour it in a glass until it’s almost full, leaving ice for the cream.
Step 5: Garnish (Optional)
If you’re feeling fancy, top your Root Beer float cocktail with a generous swirl of whipped cream. What is the best maraschino cherry? Can you add a little cinnamon to your smoothie?
Step 6: Serve Immediately
What is a root beer float cocktail? The sooner you drink it, the better the texture will be.
What should I serve it with?
What are some ideas for a Root Beer float cocktail? Is it a full-blown dessert experience?
What are the best summer BBQs?Pair it with grilled burgers, hot dogs, or ribs. The sweetness of the cocktail cuts through the richness of grilled meats perfectly.
For Movie Night: Is it good Serve it alongside popcorn, candy, and your favorite movie. It’s the ultimate indulgent treat.
For a Casual Get-Together:What is a good dessert to serve with your guests?
For a late-night treat:I just want a little something sweet before bed, and this Root Beer Float Cocktail is the perfect way to do it. What is the perfect solution Is it quick, easy, and totally satisfying? I might even make a smaller version with just one scoop of ice cream!
My family loves Chocolate Chip cookies. I make them every day. What’s better, a warm, gooey cookie and ice cold cocktail?
How do I make a great root beer float cocktail?
What are some of the best ways to make Root Beer? What is a
Why does Ice Cream quality matter?Use a good quality vanilla ice cream. The better the ice cream, the better the flavor of the cocktail. I love vanilla bean ice cream, because you can see the little flecks of vanilla.
What is the best wayMake sure your root beer is well-chilled before you start. How do you prevent ice cream from melting too quickly?
Pour Slowly:When pouring root beer, do it slowly to avoid excessive fizzing and overflowing. I’ve definitely learned this the hard way with root beer all over my counter!
Don’t Overmix:Do not stir the cocktail too much. How do you make ice cream?
Experiment with Flavors: Don’t be afraid to try different flavors of ice cream or root beer. Chocolate ice cream, salted caramel ice cream, or even a different brand of root beer can all add a unique twist.
Booze Wisely: I love dark rum, but vanilla vodka or bourbon are also fantastic choices. Experiment to find your favorite combination. I’ve even tried a little Baileys in mine and that was incredible!
Garnish Game Strong: A dollop of whipped cream and a cherry are classic, but you can also try garnishing with a sprinkle of nutmeg, cinnamon, or even chocolate shavings. Get creative!
Non-Alcoholic Version: Omit the alcohol for a kid-friendly version that everyone will love. My kids ask for this all the time, even without the rum, so I feel like I can still indulge while making them something fun too!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Okay, so technically, a Root beer float cocktail is best enjoyed immediately. However, if you absolutely *have* to store it (maybe you made too much?), here are some tips:
Room Temperature: Not recommended. The ice cream will melt, and the root beer will go flat.
Refrigerator Storage: Again, not ideal. The ice cream will get icy, and the root beer will lose its fizz. If you must, store it in an airtight container for no more than a few hours.
Freezer Instructions: You can technically freeze it, but the texture will change significantly. The ice cream will become very hard, and the root beer will lose its carbonation. If you do freeze it, let it thaw slightly before serving.
Glaze Timing Advice: Since there is no glaze in this recipe, this tip doesn’t really apply. But if you are adding whipped cream, add it right before serving, as it won’t hold up well in storage.
Honestly, my advice is to just make what you can drink right away. This is definitely a “make and enjoy” kind of drink!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it: my go-to Root beer float cocktail recipe! It’s easy, delicious, and guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. Whether you’re looking for a nostalgic treat or a fun and unexpected dessert for a party, this cocktail is sure to be a hit. The best part? You can customize it to your heart’s content! Try different ice cream flavors, experiment with different spirits, and add your favorite toppings. The possibilities are endless!
If you loved this recipe, be sure to check out my other cocktail recipes for more delicious inspiration. And don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how your Root beer float cocktail turned out. I can’t wait to hear about your variations! Happy mixing, friends!

Root beer float cocktail
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 oz Vanilla ice cream
- 1.5 oz Root beer schnapps
- 0.5 oz Root beer
- 1 dash Angostura bitters
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a rocks glass, add vanilla ice cream.
- Pour in root beer schnapps and root beer.
- Add a dash of Angostura bitters.
- Stir gently to combine.