Introduction
A holiday party just isn’t complete without a refreshing Festive Peppermint Christmas Float. This sparkling peppermint ice cream float is a merry twist on a classic soda fountain treat, blending vanilla ice cream, fizzy soda, and cool peppermint into a magical Christmas drink that both kids and adults will love. Whether you call it a Christmas Peppermint Float, a Peppermint Holiday Float, or even a Candy Cane Christmas Float, this recipe is your ticket to holiday cheer in a glass.
Imagine serving it at a Christmas Eve gathering, family brunch, or even a New Year’s toast—the creamy sweetness, the fizz of soda, and the minty kick will have everyone smiling. In this article, you’ll discover the exact ingredients, easy steps, storage tricks, variations, and pro tips to make this drink shine at your holiday table.
Festive Peppermint Christmas Float
-
Cool & Creamy Holiday Flavor – A balance of fizzy soda, vanilla ice cream, and peppermint extract.
-
Kid-Friendly & Party-Ready – Fun for kids, but adults can spike it with a splash of peppermint schnapps.
-
Quick & Easy – Just 5 ingredients and 5 minutes to prepare.
-
Budget-Friendly – Simple pantry and freezer staples, no fancy equipment needed.
-
Customizable – Make it dairy-free, vegan, or even boozy with festive twists.
-
Eye-Catching Presentation – Crushed candy cane garnish makes it look like a North Pole treat.
-
Perfect for Entertaining – Serve in a punch bowl, mason jars, or champagne flutes.
Ingredients for the Perfect Peppermint Holiday Float
Here’s what you’ll need to create this frosty, fizzy holiday float:
-
3 tablespoons milk – Helps balance the peppermint flavor and creaminess.
-
¼ teaspoon peppermint extract – The star flavor; adjust for stronger or lighter peppermint notes.
-
1 pound vanilla ice cream (about 15 oz) – Classic base; swap for peppermint ice cream for extra minty goodness.
-
1.5 liters 7UP (or Sprite) – Adds fizz and sweetness. For a lighter option, use sparkling water with a splash of simple syrup.
-
Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes (optional garnish) – Adds crunch, color, and festive flair.
✨ Ingredient Substitutions & Tips:
-
Use dairy-free vanilla ice cream and almond milk for a vegan option.
-
Try ginger ale instead of 7UP for a spiced twist.
-
Add red food coloring drops for a more striking candy cane look.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Punch Bowl
Chill your punch bowl or beverage jar in the fridge before use—this helps the ice cream and soda stay frosty longer.
Step 2: Mix the Base
In the chilled bowl, combine the milk and peppermint extract. Stir well to disperse the mint evenly.
Step 3: Add the Fizz
Pour in the 7UP gently to preserve the bubbles. Stir lightly until the flavors are combined.
Step 4: Scoop in Ice Cream
Add generous scoops of vanilla ice cream directly into the punch bowl or serving glasses. The fizz will create that signature float foam.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Top each serving with a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candy. Add festive straws or spoons for easy sipping.
💡 Sensory Cue: You’ll know it’s perfect when the soda fizzes over the creamy scoops, creating a foamy, candy-cane cloud.
Pro Tips for the Best Christmas Peppermint Float
How do I keep the float fizzy for longer?
Serve the drink immediately after pouring. Pre-chill your soda and glasses to lock in carbonation.
Can I make this drink ahead of time?
You can prep the soda + peppermint mixture in advance, but always add the ice cream just before serving.
Can I make an adult version of this float?
Absolutely! Add peppermint schnapps, vanilla vodka, or Baileys for a grown-up twist.
What’s the best garnish for presentation?
Crushed candy canes, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of chocolate syrup create a festive look.
Best Ways to Serve Your Holiday Peppermint Ice Cream Float
-
Serve in a clear punch bowl for big parties.
-
Use mason jars with striped straws for rustic holiday charm.
-
For elegant gatherings, serve in champagne flutes with mini candy cane stirrers.
👉 Related Recipe: Try pairing this drink with Sweet Air Fryer Churro Bites for the ultimate holiday treat combo.
Nutrition (Per Serving – Approx. 1 Glass)
-
Calories: 265
-
Fat: 8g
-
Carbs: 45g
-
Sugars: 38g
-
Protein: 3g
-
Sodium: 65mg
(Values will vary depending on soda and ice cream brands.)
Storage & Leftovers
-
Refrigerator: Not recommended—floats lose fizz and melt quickly.
-
Freezer Hack: If you need to prep early, freeze scoops of ice cream in muffin tins, then add to soda at serving time.
-
Next-Day Use: Turn melted leftovers into a peppermint milkshake by blending with extra ice cream.
FAQs About Festive Peppermint Christmas Float
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Use coconut milk ice cream and plant-based soda for a vegan-friendly version.
What soda works best besides 7UP?
Sprite, ginger ale, or even cream soda create delicious variations.
Can kids drink this?
Definitely—it’s alcohol-free by default. For adults, simply spike as desired.
How long does peppermint extract last?
A bottle of pure extract can last up to 4 years if stored in a cool, dark place.
Variations of the Frosty Peppermint Christmas Float
-
Santa’s Peppermint Float – Add red sherbet instead of vanilla ice cream.
-
Frosty Peppermint Float – Use peppermint ice cream and blue soda (like Mountain Dew Frost Bite).
-
Candy Cane Mocha Float – Replace soda with cold brew coffee + chocolate syrup.
-
Boozy North Pole Peppermint Float – Add Baileys or peppermint schnapps.
Conclusion
The Festive Peppermint Christmas Float isn’t just a recipe—it’s a holiday experience in a glass. Creamy, fizzy, and minty fresh, it captures the spirit of Christmas with every sip. Whether you serve it to kids at a family gathering or spike it for adults at a holiday party, this drink will sparkle as much as your Christmas tree.