Get ready to sip your way into the holiday spirit with this Festive Peppermint Christmas Float! Creamy, sweet, and refreshingly fizzy, this holiday drink is perfect for Christmas parties, cozy nights by the fire, or festive family gatherings. With its vibrant peppermint flavor, velvety vanilla ice cream, and bubbly lemon-lime soda, it’s as fun to serve as it is to drink. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it a must-have for holiday entertaining.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 15 minutes—perfect for last-minute holiday fun.
- Festive and fun: Peppermint and fizzy soda make it feel like Christmas in a glass.
- Kid-friendly: Creamy and sweet, everyone will love this holiday treat.
- Versatile: Serve at parties, family gatherings, or as a fun after-dinner dessert.
- Customizable: Add extra toppings like whipped cream, crushed candy canes, or chocolate drizzle.
Ingredients
- 1/4 tsp peppermint extract – Provides the classic holiday peppermint flavor.
- 15 oz vanilla ice cream – Creates a creamy, smooth base for the float.
- 3 tbsp milk (whole milk recommended) – Helps the ice cream blend easily with the soda.
- 1.5 liters lemon-lime soda – Adds refreshing fizz and sweetness to the drink.
- Crushed peppermint candy (optional) – For a festive garnish and extra crunch.
How to Make a Festive Peppermint Christmas Float
Step 1: Prepare Your Serving Bowl
- Take a large punch bowl or beverage jar.
- Ensure it’s clean and ready to hold your festive drink.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
- Add vanilla ice cream, milk, peppermint extract, and lemon-lime soda to the bowl.
- Stir gently to combine the flavors while keeping the fizzy soda bubbly.
Step 3: Serve the Drink
- Pour the float into individual serving glasses.
- Top each glass with an extra scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Sprinkle crushed peppermint candy on top for a festive touch.
Step 4: Add the Final Touches
- Serve with a straw and spoon so everyone can enjoy the creamy ice cream along with the fizzy drink.
- Enjoy immediately while the soda is fizzy and the ice cream is perfectly creamy.
Tips for Success
- Use high-quality vanilla ice cream for the creamiest texture.
- Stir gently to avoid losing the soda’s fizz.
- Prepare the crushed peppermint candies ahead of time for a quick garnish.
- For an adult twist, consider adding a splash of peppermint liqueur or chocolate syrup.
Equipment Needed
- Large punch bowl or beverage jar
- Stirring spoon
- Serving glasses
- Measuring spoons and cups
Recipe Variations
- Chocolate Peppermint Float: Add chocolate syrup or cocoa powder to make it extra chocolaty.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use plant-based ice cream and milk for a vegan-friendly option.
- Extra Fizzy: Use sparkling water or ginger ale for a lighter, bubbly twist.
- Mini Floats for Kids: Serve in small cups with mini candy canes for a festive touch.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with holiday cookies or gingerbread for a complete festive treat.
- Top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings for extra indulgence.
- Garnish with a whole candy cane on the side of each glass for presentation.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: It’s best served immediately to enjoy the fizz of the soda. You can prep the ice cream and crushed peppermint in advance.
Q: Can I use other soda flavors?
A: Yes! Ginger ale or club soda works, but lemon-lime gives the classic refreshing flavor.
Q: Can I make this for a large party?
A: Absolutely! Double or triple the ingredients and serve in a large punch bowl for easy serving.
Q: How do I make it extra festive?
A: Add whipped cream, chocolate drizzle, colorful sprinkles, or mini candy canes on top.
Q: Can I make it less sweet?
A: Use diet lemon-lime soda or reduce the amount of ice cream slightly for a lighter, less sweet drink.
Festive Peppermint Christmas Float: A Sweet & Creamy Holiday Treat
- Total Time: 5-15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6-8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fun and festive peppermint Christmas float, perfect for holiday celebrations. Sweet, creamy, and easy to make, this drink will get everyone in the holiday spirit.
Ingredients
- 1/4 tsp peppermint extract (e.g., McCormick)
- 15 oz vanilla ice cream (good quality)
- 3 tbsp milk (whole milk recommended)
- 1.5 liters lemon-lime soda
Instructions
- Prepare a clean punch bowl or large-serving beverage jar.
- Add all drink ingredients into the bowl and stir well to combine flavors.
- Pour the drink into serving glasses, topping each with a scoop of ice cream and a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candy.
- Serve each drink with a spoon and a straw for easy enjoyment.
Notes
- Use high-quality ice cream for the creamiest texture.
- Adjust peppermint extract to taste for more or less minty flavor.
- Prep Time: 5-10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0-5 minutes
- Category: Beverage, Dessert Drink
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
The Festive Peppermint Christmas Float is the ultimate holiday drink—creamy, fizzy, and bursting with peppermint flavor. It’s simple enough to make in minutes but impressive enough to serve at any festive gathering. Whether you’re sipping by the fireplace, hosting a holiday party, or creating a magical treat for kids, this peppermint float brings cheer in every sip. Give it a try this holiday season and make your Christmas celebrations even sweeter!
