Name: Festive Peppermint Christmas Float: A Sparkling Holiday Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 scoops Vanilla Ice Cream (Opt for French vanilla for indulgence.); 1 bottle Peppermint Soda (Can substitute with cream soda and peppermint extract.); 1 can Whipped Cream (To top off the float.); 1/4 cup Crushed Candy Canes (For garnish.); 1 piece Maraschino Cherry (Optional garnish.)

Every holiday season brings a spark of joy, and this year, I’m excited to share a delightful twist on a classic treat—the Festive Peppermint Christmas Float. Picture a glass brimming with bubbly peppermint soda cascading over luscious scoops of rich vanilla ice cream, crowned with fluffy whipped cream and a festive sprinkle of candy cane crumbles. This easy-to-make holiday beverage not only serves as a fun centerpiece for family gatherings but also allows for customization to suit every palate—whether you prefer a minty touch or a sweeter vibe. It’s the perfect antidote to a chaotic holiday schedule, making it a quick, crowd-pleasing dessert that brings a smile to everyone’s face. Curious about how to whip up this fizzy, creamy indulgence? Let’s dive into making your holiday season extra special!

Why Will You Adore This Float?

Irresistible Flavor Combinations: The mix of refreshing peppermint and rich vanilla ice cream creates a delicious holiday treat that tantalizes your taste buds with every sip.

Easy to Customize: Tailor this float to your liking by experimenting with different sodas or ice cream flavors. Go for creamy chocolate or dairy-free options to make it your own!

Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s a family dinner or a holiday party, this Festive Peppermint Christmas Float guarantees smiles and delight, appealing to both kids and adults alike.

Quick and Effortless: With just a few ingredients, you can whip this up in minutes, making it an ideal last-minute dessert. No need to stress over complicated recipes this season!

Visually Stunning: The festive colors and layers make it a showstopper on any table, perfect for capturing the holiday spirit. Pair it with holiday sweets for an even more delightful experience!

Festive Peppermint Christmas Float Ingredients

• Get ready to delight your family with this festive peppermint Christmas float!

For the Float

Vanilla Ice Cream – Adds creaminess and rich flavor; for a more indulgent taste, opt for French vanilla.
Peppermint Soda – Provides refreshing minty bubbles; can be replaced with cream soda and a splash of peppermint extract if you prefer.
Whipped Cream – Lightens up the float with an airy topping to balance the richness of the ice cream.
Crushed Candy Canes – Adds a delightful peppermint crunch as a festive garnish.
Maraschino Cherry – An optional classic touch, perfect for that holiday flair!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Festive Peppermint Christmas Float

Step 1: Chill the Glasses
Begin by chilling your tall glasses in the freezer for about 10-15 minutes. This step is essential for maintaining the frosty texture of your Festive Peppermint Christmas Float. Ensure they are icy to the touch; this will enhance the enjoyment of the cool drink you’ll create.

Step 2: Add the Ice Cream
Once the glasses are chilled, remove them from the freezer and add two generous scoops of creamy vanilla ice cream to each one. The colder the ice cream, the better it will hold up against the effervescent soda you’re about to pour, creating a beautiful layered effect in your float.

Step 3: Pour the Peppermint Soda
Gently pour the bubbling peppermint soda over the scoops of ice cream, filling each glass until it is almost full. Pour slowly to prevent overflowing and observe as the soda fizzes up, creating a delightful interplay with the ice cream. This instant transformation is part of the magic of the Festive Peppermint Christmas Float!

Step 4: Add Whipped Cream
Top off each float with a fluffy cloud of whipped cream. Using a generous dollop or a piping bag, beautify your creation with a light texture. This creamy layer not only adds richness but also balances the sweetness of the soda, elevating the overall flavor in your festive drink.

Step 5: Garnish with Candy Canes
Sprinkle crushed candy canes over the whipped cream for an appealing festive garnish. The bright red and white pieces will not only enhance the visual charm of your Festive Peppermint Christmas Float but will also add a delightful crunch and extra peppermint flavor to enjoy with each sip.

Step 6: Optional Cherry on Top
For an extra festive touch, crown your float with a maraschino cherry if desired. This classic addition brings a pop of color and a sweet finish, making your drink even more inviting. Now your beautiful Festive Peppermint Christmas Float is complete and ready to be served immediately!

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Present your festive floats with sturdy straws to enjoy the delights of this creamy, fizzy treat. The best experience comes from sipping them right after preparation, ensuring the bubbles remain lively. So gather your loved ones around, and share the joy of this delightful holiday drink!

Make Ahead Options

These Festive Peppermint Christmas Floats are perfect for busy holiday schedules! You can scoop vanilla ice cream into glasses and store them in the freezer up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring a frosty start for your treats. To maintain quality, cover the glasses with plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to serve, simply pour the peppermint soda over the ice cream, add the whipped cream, and sprinkle with crushed candy canes. This way, you can impress your guests with minimal effort and enjoy the festive flavors of this delightful holiday beverage without the last-minute rush!

Expert Tips for Festive Peppermint Christmas Float

Serve Immediately: Enjoy this float right after assembling to keep the bubbles lively and the ice cream perfectly creamy.
Chill with Care: Freezing your glasses properly ensures a frosty experience and prevents quick melting of the ice cream in your Festive Peppermint Christmas Float.
Mix and Match Sodas: Don’t hesitate to swap peppermint soda for cream or lemon-lime soda and add peppermint extract for a personalized twist.
Whipped Cream Wonderland: Use a piping bag for whipped cream to create a beautiful swirl on top, making your float extra festive.
Garnish Smartly: Sprinkle more crushed candy canes if you adore minty crunch; it enhances both the taste and visual appeal of your float!

How to Store and Freeze Festive Peppermint Christmas Float

Fridge: Store any leftover float components separately in the fridge. You can keep the ice cream for up to 1 week and peppermint soda for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Freezer: If you’ve scoop extra ice cream for later use, store it in an airtight container in the freezer. It can last up to 3 months without compromising flavor.

Reheating: While the Festive Peppermint Christmas Float is best served fresh, feel free to prepare ice cream scoops ahead of time. Just add the soda right before serving to retain fizz and texture.

Make-Ahead Tip: For gatherings, pre-scoop ice cream into your glasses and store them in the freezer. Add the peppermint soda just before guests arrive to ensure a delightful, bubbly experience!

Festive Peppermint Christmas Float Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize this holiday delight with these tasty twists!

Cream Soda Swap: Use cream soda instead of peppermint soda for a sweeter, nostalgic flavor. Adding a touch of peppermint extract can still keep that festive essence alive.
Dairy-Free Delight: Choose a dairy-free ice cream for a vegan-friendly float. Coconut or almond-based options add a hint of tropical flair to this winter treat!
Chocolate Boost: Introduce a scoop of chocolate ice cream for a decadent twist. The delicious contrast with peppermint creates a delightful flavor explosion that will impress everyone.
Cookie Crumble: Top with crushed chocolate sandwich cookies for added texture and a hint of chocolatey goodness. This will take your float to new heights of indulgence!
Extra Whipped Cream: Don’t hold back on the whipped cream—add more dollops for that heavenly, creamy experience. You can also flavor it with vanilla to enhance its sweetness.
Minty Sprinkles: Add colorful sprinkles on top for a burst of fun that kids (and adults) will love. It’s a joyful touch that beautifies your festive float!
Spiced Version: Throw in a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg over the whipped cream for warm, cozy flavors that reflect classic holiday spices. The warmth complements the refreshing mint perfectly.
Cocktail Option: Add a splash of peppermint schnapps or chocolate liqueur for an adults-only twist that makes your float feel even more festive. This bubbly treat will be a hit at holiday parties!

These variations can elevate your Festive Peppermint Christmas Float, allowing everyone to create their perfect holiday beverage! Enjoy these ideas and perhaps consider pairing your floats with delectable holiday sweets for the ultimate celebration!

What to Serve with Festive Peppermint Christmas Float

This holiday season, elevate your festivities by pairing this frosty drink with delightful flavors that dance on the palate.

Chocolate Chip Cookies: These warm, gooey treats harmonize with the float’s coolness, adding a comforting sweetness that everyone will adore.
Gingerbread Men: The spicy notes from gingerbread perfectly balance the minty freshness of the float, creating a festive duo that sings of holiday cheer.
Apple Crumb Cake: This warm, cinnamon-scented cake brings a homey touch, complementing the float’s chill while enhancing the overall sweetness.
Mini Cheesecakes: Rich and creamy cheesecakes provide a delightful contrast to the fizzy float, adding a touch of sophistication to your dessert table.
Hot Chocolate: This indulgent drink creates a cozy atmosphere, allowing guests to sip on creamy chocolate between sipping the bubbly float.
Peppermint Bark: A crunchy, minty treat that enhances the float’s peppermint flavor, creating a symphony of festive flavors with every bite.
Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta: The silky texture of this classic dessert pairs beautifully with the float, providing a luxurious taste experience guests will rave about.
Festive Fruit Platter: Assorted seasonal fruits brighten the table and offer a refreshing contrast to the rich float, adding a healthy balance to your spread.

Festive Peppermint Christmas Float Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right peppermint soda?
Absolutely! When selecting peppermint soda, look for a brand that has a bright, refreshing taste without being overly sweet. A clear soda often works best for visual appeal and flavor balance. If you can’t find peppermint soda, simply mix cream soda with a couple of drops of peppermint extract for a quick substitute.

Can I store leftover ingredients and for how long?
Very! Leftover ice cream can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 week. As for the peppermint soda, it should be kept in the fridge and consumed within 3 days for optimal taste. Make sure to tightly seal the bottle to keep it bubbly!

What’s the best way to freeze leftover floats?
The best approach is to avoid freezing the entire float, as it will lose its fizzy charm. If you have leftover ice cream or soda components, I recommend separating them. Store the ice cream in an airtight container, where it will last up to 3 months. Keep the soda sealed in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy, just prepare a fresh float using the stored ingredients.

What if my float overflows while pouring soda?
Don’t fret! Overflowing can happen if you pour the soda too quickly. To combat this, pour slowly and let the fizz settle before adding more soda. If it overflows, simply enjoy the extra bubbly goodness! Consider serving with a fun straw or spoon to catch those delightful drips.

Is this recipe suitable for children?
Absolutely! This Festive Peppermint Christmas Float is family-friendly and perfect for children. However, if you are considering any variations with alcohol, like peppermint schnapps, just keep those for the adults, and everyone can enjoy a fizzy version tailored to their taste!