Peppermint Christmas Float Recipe
The Peppermint Christmas Float is a festive treat that brings together creamy vanilla ice cream, fizzy soda, and a splash of refreshing peppermint flavor. With its perfect mix of sweet,…
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The Peppermint Christmas Float is a festive treat that brings together creamy vanilla ice cream, fizzy soda, and a splash of refreshing peppermint flavor. With its perfect mix of sweet, minty, and bubbly, this float feels like a holiday party in a glass. The crunchy crushed candy canes on top add a fun, festive crunch that makes each sip even more exciting.
I love making this float when friends and family come over during the holidays. It’s super easy to put together, and everyone always wants seconds—especially the kids. One of my favorite tips is to use a tall glass and layer the ice cream and soda slowly to keep the fizz going longer. Plus, the peppermint really wakes up your taste buds in the best way!
Serving the peppermint float in a clear glass with a candy cane on the side makes it feel extra special, like a mini celebration for anyone enjoying it. It’s perfect after a chilly day spent decorating or wrapping gifts, and it always brings a smile to the table. This little treat never fails to brighten up our holiday gatherings, and I’m sure you’ll love it as much as I do.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peppermint-flavored soda: This gives the float its minty sparkle. If you can’t find peppermint soda, try a lemon-lime soda with a few drops of peppermint extract—start small to avoid overpowering the drink.
Vanilla ice cream: The creamy base that balances the fizz and mint. For a dairy-free version, use coconut or almond milk ice cream. I find full-fat vanilla ice cream makes the float extra rich and smooth.
Crushed candy canes: Adds a festive crunch and peppermint punch. If candy canes aren’t available, crushed peppermint hard candies work well too. For less mess, crush them finely with a rolling pin inside a sealed bag.
Whipped cream: A fluffy topper that softens the cold fizz. You can use store-bought or homemade whipped cream. For a twist, try peppermint-flavored whipped cream by adding a tiny bit of peppermint extract.
How Can I Make My Peppermint Christmas Float Fizz Without Overflowing?
Pouring soda over ice cream can cause fizz to bubble up quickly and spill over. Here’s how to keep it neat:
- Chill the glass beforehand to keep drink colder longer and reduce foaming.
- Pour the soda slowly and tilt the glass slightly to help the bubbles settle gently.
- Add the ice cream in small scoops rather than one big scoop—this helps control fizz.
- Wait a few seconds between adding soda and ice cream; this stops excessive bubbling.
- Using a spoon or straw to gently press the ice cream down can also reduce fizz.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Tall clear glasses – I like these because they show off the bright red and white layers beautifully.
- Spoon or ice cream scoop – helps you add the ice cream neatly without making a mess.
- Straws – perfect for sipping the fizzy peppermint soda and melted ice cream mix.
- Small bowl – handy for crushing candy canes evenly without flying bits everywhere.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use chocolate or cherry soda instead of peppermint soda for a different, fun flavor twist.
- Add a splash of coffee liqueur or peppermint schnapps for an adult-only version with a kick.
- Top with crushed chocolate chips or mini marshmallows for extra texture and sweetness.
- Swap vanilla ice cream for mint chocolate chip ice cream if you want a stronger mint flavor.
How to Make a Peppermint Christmas Float
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup peppermint-flavored soda (chilled)
- 2 scoops vanilla ice cream
- ¼ cup crushed candy canes
- Whipped cream, for topping
- 1 whole mini candy cane, for garnish
- Fresh mint sprig (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This treat only takes about 10 minutes to prepare! The only extra time needed is a quick chill of your glass in the freezer for about 10 minutes to keep your float nice and cold.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Chill the Glass:
Place your serving glass in the freezer for about 10 minutes. This helps keep your float cool and prevents the soda from fizzing too quickly.
2. Pour the Soda:
Remove the glass from the freezer and fill it about halfway with the chilled peppermint-flavored soda. Pour slowly to reduce fizzing.
3. Add Vanilla Ice Cream:
Carefully add two generous scoops of vanilla ice cream into the glass. Pouring slowly helps avoid overflow as the soda fizzes up.
4. Top with Whipped Cream:
Spoon a generous amount of whipped cream over the ice cream. This adds a creamy, fluffy layer on top.
5. Sprinkle Candy Canes:
Sprinkle the crushed candy canes over the whipped cream for a festive touch and a little crunchy peppermint flavor.
6. Garnish & Serve:
Decorate with a mini candy cane hooked on the side of the glass and a fresh mint sprig if you like. Serve immediately with a straw and a long spoon to enjoy every sip and scoop!
Can I Use Different Soda Flavors?
Absolutely! While peppermint soda gives the float its classic holiday flavor, you can try lemon-lime, cherry, or even cream soda for a unique twist. Just pick a soda you enjoy and experiment!
How Do I Keep the Float from Overflowing?
Pour the soda slowly and add the ice cream in small scoops. Chilling the glass beforehand helps reduce fizzing, and waiting a few seconds between adding soda and ice cream can keep things neat.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Because this float is best enjoyed fresh and fizzy, I recommend preparing it just before serving. However, you can crush candy canes and chill glasses in advance to save time.
How Should I Store Leftover Ingredients?
Keep leftover soda sealed and refrigerated. Store whipped cream in the fridge, and put ice cream back in the freezer promptly to keep it fresh for your next festive float!
