The Peppermint Float Recipe is the ultimate festive treat that combines the creamy richness of vanilla ice cream with the refreshing fizz of lemon-lime soda and a delightful hint of cool peppermint. This sparkling beverage is a beautiful balance of sweet, creamy, and minty flavors that will brighten up any gathering or cozy night in. Whether you’re craving a playful dessert or a nostalgic drink to share with friends, this recipe is easy to whip up and impossible not to love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A woman’s hand with purple painted nails holds a clear small glass, pressing it down into a white plate. Around the glass on the plate, there is a ring of small pink and white sprinkles scattered evenly. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, and in the top right corner, there is a clear glass with water, reflecting the light. The overall scene has bright, clean lighting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Don’t be fooled by the simplicity of the ingredients here—each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect Peppermint Float Recipe. From the minty punch of peppermint extract to the smooth creaminess of high-quality vanilla ice cream, every component adds its own magic to the mix.

¼ tsp peppermint extract: Adds a cool, refreshing mint flavor without overpowering the float.
15 oz vanilla ice cream: Choose a rich, creamy ice cream for the best texture and flavor contrast.
3 tbsp whole milk: Helps soften the ice cream and create a luscious, creamy consistency.
1.5 liters lemon-lime soda: Use your favorite brand like Sprite or 7Up to provide that bubbly, citrusy base.
Crushed peppermint candy: Sprinkled on top as a festive garnish that adds crunch and extra minty goodness.

How to Make Peppermint Float Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Punch Bowl

Start by cleaning and chilling a large punch bowl or beverage dispenser. This simple step is key for keeping your peppermint float cool and refreshing during the entire serving time. A chilled bowl ensures the ice cream and soda stay perfectly cold, enhancing the overall experience.

Step 2: Mix the Base

Pour the lemon-lime soda, whole milk, and peppermint extract into the punch bowl. Stir gently to combine, being careful not to overmix. The goal is to keep all that delightful carbonation intact so your float remains fizzy and light. The milk adds just enough creaminess to blend beautifully with the soda while letting the mint shine.

Step 3: Add Ice Cream

Scoop the vanilla ice cream into the punch bowl and gently stir until the mixture starts to foam and thicken into a creamy texture. This step creates the signature float effect as the ice cream starts to melt into the fizzy base, turning the drink into a luscious, velvety treat that is truly irresistible.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

Pour the peppermint float into glasses, adding a small scoop of ice cream on top of each. Sprinkle crushed peppermint candy over the floats for a festive crunch and enhanced mint flavor. Serve immediately so everyone can enjoy the float at its fizziest and creamiest.

How to Serve Peppermint Float Recipe

Two tall clear glasses filled with a pale yellow creamy drink. Each glass has caramel-colored syrup drizzling down the inside, creating vertical stripes. On top, there is a big swirl of white whipped cream sprinkled with small red candy pieces and a dusting of powdered sugar. A red and white striped candy cane is placed upright in the whipped cream of each glass. The glasses stand on a surface with a white marbled texture, surrounded by red shiny Christmas ball ornaments and a candy cane lying next to the closest glass. The background is softly blurred with warm lights. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Crushed peppermint candy is the star garnish here, adding both a burst of mint flavor and a delightful crunch. You could also experiment with mini candy canes or a light dusting of cocoa powder for extra visual appeal. Adding a colorful straw and a spoon makes it easy and fun for guests to enjoy every last creamy, fizzy bite.

Side Dishes

Pair your peppermint float with light, complementary treats like gingerbread cookies, shortbread, or even a platter of fresh berries. These side dishes balance the sweet richness of the float without overwhelming your palate, making the entire experience feel like a thoughtful and well-rounded celebration.

Creative Ways to Present

For a memorable presentation, serve your Peppermint Float Recipe in clear glass mugs or tall parfait glasses to showcase the creamy layers and bubbles. You could rim the glasses with crushed peppermint candy or dip them in melted chocolate before pouring in the float. Adding a festive napkin and a sprig of fresh mint gives your float a touch of elegance that guests will remember.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any peppermint float left, cover the punch bowl tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. However, know that the carbonation will gradually fade, and the ice cream may become more solid as it chills, so it’s best enjoyed fresh within a few hours.

Freezing

This peppermint float doesn’t freeze well once mixed because the soda loses its fizz and the texture changes. Instead, freeze leftover ice cream separately and prepare a fresh batch of float when ready to serve for the best flavor and texture.

Reheating

Since this is a cold, fizzy dessert, reheating isn’t recommended. The charm of a Peppermint Float Recipe lies in its refreshing chill and frothy, bubbly texture which cannot be replicated once warmed.

FAQs

Can I use diet soda for the Peppermint Float Recipe?

While diet soda can work, it may alter the flavor and texture slightly. The sugar in regular soda helps create a richer taste and better mouthfeel, but feel free to experiment if you prefer a lower-calorie option.

What if I don’t have peppermint extract? Can I substitute something else?

Peppermint extract is key for that authentic cool mint flavor, but if you don’t have it, a tiny amount of crushed fresh mint leaves or peppermint syrup might work as a substitute. Just start with a small quantity to avoid overpowering the float.

Is it possible to make this float vegan?

Absolutely! Use dairy-free vanilla ice cream and your favorite plant-based milk along with a lemon-lime soda that’s vegan-friendly. Make sure to choose a peppermint extract without any animal-derived ingredients as well.

Why do we add milk to the soda and ice cream?

The milk is a secret ingredient that softens the ice cream and brings a creamy texture to the float without making it too heavy. It also helps bind the peppermint flavor more evenly throughout the drink for a consistently delicious sip.

Can this Peppermint Float Recipe be made in smaller batches?

Yes! Simply adjust the ingredient quantities proportionally for the number of servings you want. Just keep the same balance between soda, ice cream, milk, and peppermint extract to maintain that perfect flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

You truly can’t go wrong with a Peppermint Float Recipe in your dessert repertoire. It’s quick, fun, and bursting with holiday spirit in every glass. I hope you give this delightful float a try soon and that it brings a little extra joy and sparkle to your next gathering or quiet evening. Cheers to creamy sips and minty memories!