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This Festive Peppermint Christmas Float is the perfect holiday treat that combines creamy vanilla ice cream with a refreshing peppermint twist and fizzy 7 Up. It’s simple enough to whip up in minutes but makes a wonderfully cheerful and indulgent beverage for family gatherings or festive parties.
I first made this float during a Christmas Eve celebration, and it instantly became a tradition. Everyone loved how the peppermint flavor brightened up the sweetness of the ice cream and soda.
Ingredients
- Three tablespoons of milk: helps mellow the peppermint extract and adds smoothness to the drink
- Quarter teaspoon peppermint extract: provides the iconic minty flavor& look for pure peppermint extract for the best taste
- One pound of vanilla ice cream (about 15 ounces): choose a high-quality creamy vanilla ice cream for richness and smooth texture
- One and a half liters of 7 Up: a lemon-lime soda that offers a light and bubbly contrast to the creamy ice cream
Instructions
- Prepare the Punch Bowl:
- Start by taking a large punch bowl or a big serving beverage jar. Ensure it is clean and completely dry before use to keep your float fresh and free of unwanted tastes.
- Mix the Ingredients:
- Add the milk, peppermint extract, vanilla ice cream, and 7 Up directly into the punch bowl or beverage jar. Stir gently but thoroughly to combine the flavors evenly without melting the ice cream too quickly.
- Serve the Drink:
- Ladle or pour the frothy mixture into individual serving glasses. Top each glass with an extra scoop of vanilla ice cream and sprinkle crushed peppermint candy over the top to add a festive and eye-catching garnish.
- Final Touches:
- Provide each guest with a spoon and a straw to make the float easy to enjoy. The spoon helps scoop up the creamy ice cream while the straw allows sipping the fizzy soda beneath. This simple presentation makes it both charming and practical for holiday parties.
This recipe always reminds me of cozy winter nights spent with family. Peppermint is my favorite holiday flavor because it brings back memories of decorated trees, carols, and warm laughter. The combination of creamy ice cream and sparkling soda creates a feeling of indulgence without being too heavy.
Storage Tips
Since this float is best enjoyed fresh, try to serve it immediately. Leftovers can be stored briefly in the refrigerator but the soda will lose its fizz and the ice cream will melt, changing the texture. If you want to prepare some components ahead, keep the ice cream and peppermint extract separate until ready to mix.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap 7 Up for any lemon-lime soda or sparkling water if you prefer less sweetness. Vanilla ice cream can be replaced with a dairy-free version for vegan guests, but the creamy texture might be slightly different. If peppermint extract is unavailable, crushed peppermint candies dissolved in a small amount of milk work as a natural alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this float as a dessert or festive drink alongside holiday cookies, gingerbread, or chocolate treats. Garnish with fresh mint leaves or whole peppermint sticks for an extra decorative touch. It’s great for Christmas parties, New Year’s Eve, or any winter gathering.
This festive float is sure to brighten any holiday gathering with its perfect balance of creamy and fizzy flavors.
FAQs about Recipes
- → What ingredients create the creamy texture in this drink?
Vanilla ice cream is responsible for the creamy texture, melting into the fizzy 7 Up for a smooth and rich float.
- → Can I adjust the peppermint flavor intensity?
Yes, you can modify the amount of peppermint extract to make the mint flavor milder or stronger according to taste.
- → What is the best way to serve the peppermint float?
Serve in chilled glasses with a scoop of ice cream on top and a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candy for added texture.
- → Is there a recommended type of soda to use?
7 Up is recommended for its mild citrus flavor and effervescence, which complements the creamy and minty components beautifully.
- → How should the drink be mixed for best flavor?
Mix all ingredients gently in a punch bowl or beverage jar to combine flavors without losing too much carbonation from the soda.