Go Back
To make a Peppermint Christmas Float, gather these simple ingredients: - 2 cups peppermint ice cream - 1 cup milk (whole or almond) - 1 cup sparkling water or lemon-lime soda - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract - Whipped cream for topping - Crushed candy canes for garnish - Fresh mint leaves for decoration Each ingredient adds a special touch. The peppermint ice cream gives a creamy, minty flavor. The milk helps blend everything. You can choose whole milk for richness or almond milk for a lighter option. Sparkling water or soda adds a fizzy kick. The vanilla extract enhances the sweetness. The peppermint extract boosts the minty taste. Whipped cream makes it extra festive. Crushed candy canes add crunch and color. Fresh mint leaves give a lovely finish. Gather everything and get ready for a fun treat! {{ingredient_image_1}} - Step 1: Blend the ice cream and liquids Start by adding 2 cups of peppermint ice cream to your blender. Pour in 1 cup of milk, either whole or almond. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract. Blend these together until smooth and creamy. This mix should look rich and delicious. - Step 2: Pour sparkling water or soda Grab your serving glasses or mugs. Carefully pour in 1 cup of sparkling water or lemon-lime soda. Fill each glass halfway. This step adds a nice fizz to your float. - Step 3: Add the ice cream mixture Now, take your blended ice cream mixture. Spoon it gently on top of the sparkling water in each glass. Aim to fill each glass to the brim. The layers should look pretty and inviting. - Step 4: Top with whipped cream Next, take some whipped cream. Add a generous dollop on top of each float. This adds a layer of creaminess that pairs perfectly with the peppermint. - Step 5: Garnish with candy canes and mint leaves Finally, sprinkle crushed candy canes on top of the whipped cream. Add a fresh mint leaf for a pop of color. These garnishes make your float festive and fun. Serve your Peppermint Christmas Float right away. Use a long spoon or straw to mix the layers as you enjoy. To make the perfect Peppermint Christmas Float, you need the right blend. Start by adding the peppermint ice cream, milk, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract into your blender. Blend until it becomes smooth and creamy. If the mix is too thick, add a little more milk. You want it to pour easily. You can use different appliances for blending. A regular blender works great. If you want a finer texture, try an immersion blender. Just blend it right in the mixing cup. This makes cleaning up easy! Presentation matters! Choose tall glasses or festive mugs for your floats. Clear glass lets the layers shine through. You can also use mason jars for a fun twist. Pair this float with holiday treats. Cookies, brownies, or even fruitcake make great options. The sweet taste of peppermint blends well with many flavors. Serve them on a pretty tray to impress your guests! Pro Tips Use Chilled Ingredients: Ensure that your milk and sparkling water are chilled before mixing to keep the float refreshing and cool. Experiment with Flavors: Try different ice cream flavors like vanilla or chocolate for a unique twist on this classic float. Layering Technique: Pour the sparkling water slowly to maintain the layers and prevent the ice cream from sinking too quickly. Garnish Creatively: Besides crushed candy canes, consider adding colorful sprinkles or chocolate shavings for an extra festive touch. {{image_2}} You can mix up the peppermint Christmas float by using different ice cream flavors. Try chocolate or vanilla ice cream for a twist. These flavors add richness, making the drink even more fun. You can also use non-dairy alternatives. Almond or coconut milk works well. For ice cream, coconut or almond milk ice cream is a great choice for those with dairy needs. Make your float look festive with fun garnishes. Add sprinkles, mini marshmallows, or chocolate shavings. Each of these can bring a pop of color. You can also use creative glass ideas. Use holiday mugs or clear cups to show off the layers. You can even use mason jars for a rustic feel. To store the leftover ice cream mixture, pour it into an airtight container. Seal it tightly. Place the container in the freezer. This helps keep the flavors fresh and the texture smooth. If you have extra whipped cream, store it in a separate bowl, covered with plastic wrap. This keeps it fluffy. You can prepare the peppermint Christmas float ahead of time for holiday fun. Make the ice cream mixture up to two days in advance. Just blend the ice cream, milk, and extracts as usual. Then, store it in the freezer. When ready to serve, just pour the sparkling water or soda in glasses and add the ice cream mixture. This saves time on busy days. Can I use regular soda instead of sparkling water? Yes, you can use regular soda. Lemon-lime soda works well. It adds sweetness and flavor. Just keep in mind it will change the taste. If you want a lighter drink, stick with sparkling water. Is it possible to make this float in advance? I don't recommend making it too early. The ice cream will melt, and the drink will lose its fizz. However, you can prepare the ice cream mixture ahead. Just store it in the fridge and mix it when you’re ready. What can I substitute if I don't have peppermint ice cream? You can use vanilla ice cream or chocolate ice cream. These flavors still taste great with the peppermint extracts. You can also try other mint-flavored ice creams for a fun twist. How to make a non-alcoholic version for kids? This recipe is already non-alcoholic! Just follow the steps and enjoy. Kids will love the fun colors and flavors. You can add fun straws or colorful cups for extra excitement. This post showed how to make a fun peppermint float. You learned the ingredients, steps, and tips to create it perfectly. We explored different flavors and how to present it well. You can store any leftovers for later enjoyment. With these details, you can impress your friends and family during the holidays. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe and make it your own! This peppermint float will be a highlight at any festive gathering.

Peppermint Christmas Float

A festive and refreshing holiday drink featuring peppermint ice cream and sparkling soda.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups peppermint ice cream
  • 1 cup milk (whole or almond)
  • 1 cup sparkling water or lemon-lime soda
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 0.25 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • 1 serving whipped cream for topping
  • 1 serving crushed candy canes for garnish
  • 1 serving fresh mint leaves for decoration

Instructions
 

  • In a blender, combine the peppermint ice cream, milk, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  • In serving glasses or mugs, pour a layer of sparkling water or lemon-lime soda to fill halfway.
  • Spoon the peppermint ice cream mixture on top of the sparkling water, filling each glass to the brim.
  • Top each float with a generous dollop of whipped cream.
  • Garnish with crushed candy canes sprinkled on top and a fresh mint leaf for decoration.
  • Serve immediately with a long spoon or straw for mixing the layers as you enjoy.

Notes

Serve immediately for the best experience.
Keyword dessert, float, holiday, peppermint