Save to Pinterest A nostalgic and visually stunning treat, this cream soda float combines bubbly homemade cream soda with rich vanilla ice cream for a perfect refreshment.
I first tried making homemade cream soda floats at a summer gathering, and the bright colors and creamy texture made it an instant favorite among friends and family.
Ingredients
- Club soda or sparkling water: 2 cups (480 ml), chilled
- Simple syrup: 2 tbsp (30 ml), see note below
- Vanilla extract: 1/2 tsp
- Almond extract: 1/8 tsp, optional, for depth
- Natural red or pink food coloring: 2 drops, optional, for aesthetic
- Vanilla ice cream: 2 large scoops (about 1 cup/130 g total)
- Whipped cream: for garnish, optional
- Maraschino cherries: for garnish, optional
Instructions
- Mix flavorings:
- In a small pitcher or measuring cup, combine simple syrup, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and food coloring (if desired). Stir well.
- Add soda:
- Add chilled club soda or sparkling water and gently mix to combine.
- Prepare glasses:
- Divide the vanilla ice cream between two tall glasses.
- Pour and garnish:
- Slowly pour the homemade cream soda over the ice cream in each glass.
- Finish:
- Top with whipped cream and a maraschino cherry, if desired.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately with a straw and a long spoon.
Save to Pinterest My nieces especially love assembling their own floats, making it a fun, hands-on family dessert we repeat every summer.
Required Tools
Measuring spoons, pitcher or mixing cup, tall glasses, ice cream scoop, long spoons, and straws.
Allergen Information
Contains milk (dairy from ice cream and whipped cream). Maraschino cherries may contain sulfites. Check all processed ingredients for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 210, Total Fat: 7 g, Carbohydrates: 36 g, Protein: 3 g (per serving)
Save to Pinterest Try adding a splash of fruit syrup or swap out the ice cream flavor to make your float uniquely yours. Enjoy right away for the best creamy fizz.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do you make the cream soda base?
Combine simple syrup with vanilla and almond extracts, then mix gently with chilled club soda or sparkling water to create a bubbly, flavored base.
- → Can I make a dairy-free version?
Yes, substitute vanilla ice cream with plant-based alternatives and use coconut whipped cream for garnish to keep it dairy-free.
- → What is the best way to serve this float?
Use tall clear glasses to showcase the layers, add a straw and long spoon, and garnish with whipped cream and maraschino cherries for visual appeal.
- → Can I customize the flavor of the cream soda?
Try adding a splash of orange or strawberry syrup to the simple syrup mixture for a fruity twist and enhanced sweetness.
- → How long does this float stay fresh after preparing?
It’s best served immediately to enjoy the bubbly texture and creamy ice cream before melting alters the experience.