American
Easy
Root Beer Float
A classic American treat, the Root Beer Float is a simple yet indulgent beverage combining cold, fizzy root beer with scoops of creamy vanilla ice cream, creating a delightful frothy concoction.
Root Beer Float
Root Beer
Ice Cream
Vanilla
Sweet
Creamy
Non-Alcoholic
Classic
Dessert
4.7 / 5
3 min
Prep Time
Servings
$4.00
Ingredients
0/4 ready
Dairy
Other
Other
Other
Step-by-Step Instructions
1
Chill glass
Ensure a tall, sturdy glass (like a pint glass or soda fountain glass) is chilled.
💡 Tips:
- •A cold glass helps keep the float frosty and reduces rapid melting.
Estimated time: less than 1 min
2
Add ice cream
Place 2 scoops of vanilla ice cream into the bottom of the chilled glass.
💡 Tips:
- •Use good quality, slightly softened ice cream for the best scoop and creamiest texture.
Estimated time: 1 min
3
Pour root beer
Slowly pour 12 ounces (360 ml) of chilled root beer over the ice cream. Pour slowly and steadily to manage the foam. The root beer will foam up significantly as it reacts with the ice cream.
💡 Tips:
- •Pouring gently down the side of the glass can help control the initial foam. Leave some space at the top for foam expansion.
Estimated time: 1 min
4
Serve immediately
Serve the Root Beer Float immediately with 1 straw and 1 long spoon to enjoy both the fizzy drink and creamy ice cream.
💡 Tips:
- •Enjoy quickly before the ice cream melts too much and over-dilutes the drink.
Estimated time: less than 1 min
Flavor Profile
Sweet
Creamy
Fizzy
Vanilla
Herbal
Alcohol Content
0% ABV
Enjoy responsibly!
Fun Fact
The Root Beer Float, also known as a 'Brown Cow' or 'Black Cow,' is believed to have been invented by Frank J. Wisner, owner of Cripple Creek Cow Mountain Gold Mine, in Colorado in 1893. He was inspired by the moonlit, snow-capped Cow Mountain resembling ice cream scoops in dark coffee, leading him to try putting ice cream in his root beer.
Bartender's Tips
- 💡For an extra rich float, use a gourmet root beer or a brand known for its creaminess.
- 💡Experiment with other ice cream flavors like chocolate or coffee for different twists.
- 💡For a 'dirty' float, add a shot of vanilla vodka or dark rum for an adult version.
- 💡To minimize overflow from foam, add a small amount of root beer, let the foam subside, then add more.
Leave a Review
Share your experience with this recipe
You Might Also Like
Discover more delicious drinks similar to what you're viewing
