Bookmark
This peppermint Christmas float instantly brightens any holiday gathering with its creamy texture and cheerful minty flavor. Whether you are hosting a party or looking for a nostalgic treat to share with your family, this easy float has become my family’s signature December drink and always brings smiles to the table.
I first brought this float to a neighborhood holiday potluck and it was gone before dinner started. Everyone from toddlers to grandparents wanted to try it. A friend even asked me afterward for my secret trick to keeping the ice cream perfectly foamy.
Ingredients
- Vanilla ice cream: The real star in this float provides creaminess and sweetness use a good quality ice cream for the best mouthfeel
- Milk: Just a splash helps the ice cream blend more smoothly choose whole milk for richer flavor
- Peppermint extract: A little goes a long way so seek out pure peppermint extract for the truest holiday flavor
- 7 up: This bubbly soda lifts everything with its light citrus note opt for a freshly opened bottle for maximum fizz
- Crushed peppermint candy: For topping brings a festive flair and crunchy bits seek out classic red and white candy canes
Instructions
- Pick the Serving Vessel:
- Use a large clean punch bowl or a glass beverage jar so guests can help themselves this makes everything easy to mix and serve
- Combine the Ingredients:
- Add vanilla ice cream milk peppermint extract and 7 up right into your bowl pour the 7 up in last so the mixture gets foamy then stir gently to blend everything together but do not overmix or the soda will lose its fizz
- Scoop and Serve:
- Ladle the float into clear glasses for the prettiest presentation top each glass with an extra scoop of ice cream for a creamy crown and scatter peppermint candy pieces to catch the eye and add crunch
- Add the Fun Touch:
- Set out spoons and straws with each glass so guests can swirl and sip the creamy foam at their own pace
Every time I bring out the crushed peppermint candy it reminds me of childhood afternoons spent unwrapping candy canes and letting everyone decorate their own float just before we wrapped presents.
Storage Tips
You will want to prepare this float just before serving as the ice cream will melt if left too long in the bowl. For leftovers simply cover and refrigerate the punch bowl and rewhisk before enjoying though the ice cream might lose some of its signature frothiness. The topping is best added fresh.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you need a dairy free version try using coconut based vanilla ice cream along with almond milk for a creamy base without the dairy. You could swap ginger ale or another lemon lime soda for the 7 up if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Scatter colored candy sprinkles for birthday parties or even crushed chocolate cookies for a wintry cookies and cream spin. This drink is also fun with a peppermint stick as a stirrer.
Cultural and Historical Notes
Peppermint treats have always signaled the start of the winter holidays in many families especially in America. The float drink first grew popular at soda fountains in the twentieth century and continues to feel both retro and perfectly seasonal.
Seasonal Adaptations
Add red and green colored sprinkles for extra Christmas spirit. Try a scoop of chocolate or peppermint ice cream for a twist. In summer use rainbow sprinkles instead of candy canes.
This float is the easiest way to make a gathering feel celebratory and special. Enjoy the simple magic of peppermint and ice cream all season long!
Your Recipe Questions Answered
- → What kind of peppermint flavor works best?
Peppermint extract delivers a bold, classic flavor. Adjust the amount for milder or stronger minty notes.
- → Can I use a different type of soda?
Yes, lemon-lime sodas like Sprite or ginger ale work well and can be used as alternatives to 7 Up.
- → How can I make it extra festive?
Top each float with crushed peppermint candies, holiday sprinkles, or even a cherry for a colorful touch.
- → Does this float work as a make-ahead option?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare ingredients in advance and assemble floats right before serving.
- → Is there a dairy-free substitute for the ice cream?
Yes, use your favorite dairy-free vanilla ice cream to create a float that suits all dietary needs.