Tasty Peppermint Christmas Float

Table of Contents

As the air turns crisp and the twinkling lights begin to adorn every corner of the neighborhood, there’s a special magic that transforms our homes into cozy sanctuaries of warmth and cheer. One of my favorite holiday traditions is creating festive drinks that fill the house with sweet, inviting aromas—enter the Tasty Peppermint Christmas Float!

The inspiration for this delightful treat came one chilly December afternoon while rummaging through my pantry. As I stumbled upon some peppermint-flavored soda, I couldn’t resist a little kitchen experimentation. When I tossed in creamy vanilla ice cream and crowned it with fluffy whipped cream, the result was pure bliss! Each sip brings not only a refreshing burst of peppermint but also the comforting sweetness of ice cream, reminiscent of joy-filled childhood moments. If you love indulgent, whimsical treats that embody the festive spirit, you’re in for a delightful surprise with this float. Let’s create some cozy vibes together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This float comes together in minutes! Perfect for when holiday festivities leave you short on time.
• Always a Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s an intimate family gathering or a vibrant holiday party, everyone will love this festive treat.
• Deliciously Refreshing: The combination of creamy ice cream and bubbly soda creates a delightful texture that dances on your palate.
• Customizable: You can let your creativity run wild with flavors and toppings!
• Holiday Spirit in a Glass: It captures the essence of Christmas with its minty aroma and cheerful colors.

Ingredients

• 2 cups vanilla ice cream
  This creamy base adds a luscious texture that melts beautifully into the drinks, creating the perfect dreamy float!

• 1 cup cold peppermint-flavored soda or sparkling water
  The fizz adds a fun, festive touch, and the peppermint flavor brings that classic holiday spirit to life!

• 1 cup whipped cream
  This fluffy topping is like a cloud of sweetness that elevates the float to an indulgent treat. Use fresh whipped cream for the best results!

• Crushed peppermint candies for garnish
  These add a delightful crunch and festive look that echo the holidays—plus, they’re a delicious bonus!

• Mint leaves for garnish
  A sprig of mint not only brightens up the presentation but also gives a refreshing hint of herbal aroma!

Full recipe card is below.

How to Make It

1. Scoop the Ice Cream

In a large glass, scoop in the vanilla ice cream. Let it sit for a moment and watch how it swirls and softens just a bit; this is where the magic begins!

2. Pour the Soda

Slowly pour the cold peppermint soda over the ice cream until the glass is almost full. Enjoy the delightful fizz as it bubbles vigorously around the creamy dollop—so satisfying to watch!

3. Top with Whipped Cream

Take that fluffy whipped cream and pile it high on top of your float. Don’t be shy; the more, the merrier!

4. Sprinkle with Crushed Peppermint

Now, sprinkle those beautiful crushed peppermint candies over the whipped cream. Hear that gentle crunch? That’s the sound of holiday happiness!

5. Garnish and Serve

Add a mint leaf for garnish, and voilà! Serve immediately and enjoy this festive drink while cozying up with family and friends.

Pro Tips for Success

1. Chill Your Glasses: Pop your glasses in the freezer for a few minutes before serving to keep your float icy cold!
2. Don’t Rush the Pour: Pour the soda slowly to minimize the fizz overflow, ensuring a neat presentation.
3. Experiment with Flavors: Try using vanilla bean ice cream or chocolate-covered peppermint candies for an extra twist!
4. Presentation Counts: Use clear glasses to showcase the lovely layers of your float.
5. Taste as You Go: Adjust the sweetness level by adding more soda or a pinch of extra candy if desired.

Flavor Variations

• Swap the peppermint soda for ginger ale for a spicy twist on this classic.
• Choose eggnog instead of whipped cream for a festive nod to the traditional holiday beverage.
• Add a splash of chocolate syrup for a mint-chocolate experience that’ll tantalize your taste buds.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Tasty Peppermint Christmas Float with cozy gingerbread cookies, a slice of rich fruitcake, or some spiced holiday nuts for a complete festive snack spread! Consider using seasonal glasses with holiday designs to amp up the cheer.

Make-Ahead & Storage

While this drink is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ice cream scoops ahead of time and keep them in the freezer in individual portions. Just wait to add the soda and toppings until right before serving!

Leftovers

If you have any leftover ice cream mixture (though I doubt it!), use it to create a tasty milkshake. Blend the float components together for a creamy, minty treat!

Freezing

The float itself doesn’t freeze well due to the carbonation, but you can freeze the vanilla ice cream in portions for future use. When ready to enjoy, just leave it out for a few minutes to soften before serving.

Reheating

This recipe is best served cold and doesn’t really require reheating. Enjoy it chilled to savor the refreshing taste!

FAQs

Can I use regular soda instead of peppermint?
Absolutely! You can use any type of soda you like—just add crushed peppermint candies for the festive touch!

What’s a good dairy-free alternative?
Try a dairy-free ice cream and a plant-based whipped cream; they’ll work perfectly with the soda!

Can children enjoy this drink?
Yes! Just use caffeine-free peppermint soda or bubbly water to keep it safe for kids.

How long does it take to prepare?
The entire process takes around 5-10 minutes, making it easy peasy for any holiday gathering!

Final Thoughts

As we gather around with loved ones this holiday season, let the Tasty Peppermint Christmas Float be a centerpiece of joy and warmth. It’s a simple way to spread cheer, spark laughter, and indulge in the delightful flavors of the season. So, gather your loved ones, swap stories, and create magical memories around this festive drink. Happy sipping, and warm wishes for a joyous holiday season from my cozy kitchen to yours!