Ice cream floats are a classic and delightful treat that perfectly blend creamy, cold ice cream with fizzy, refreshing soda.
Whether you’re craving a nostalgic dessert or a fun way to cool down on a hot day, ice cream floats offer endless flavor possibilities.
From timeless root beer floats to tropical-inspired creations, the combination of creamy textures and bubbly fizz creates a dessert experience that’s both playful and indulgent.
In this article, we’ve gathered over 27 irresistible ice cream float recipes that range from traditional favorites to unique twists — guaranteed to satisfy every sweet tooth and add a splash of fun to your dessert table.
27+ Irresistible Ice Cream Float Recipes to Try Today
With so many delicious ice cream float recipes to choose from, there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you prefer classic combinations like root beer and vanilla or crave fruity, tropical flavors, these recipes showcase the versatility and joy of this timeless dessert.
Ice cream floats are easy to make, visually appealing, and perfect for any occasion — from casual family treats to festive parties.
So next time you want a sweet and refreshing indulgence, try one of these creative floats and treat yourself to a fizzy, creamy delight.
Classic Root Beer Float
The classic root beer float is a beloved, timeless treat that combines creamy vanilla ice cream with the bubbly sweetness of root beer.
It’s refreshing, easy to make, and offers a perfect blend of cold, creamy texture with fizzy, flavorful soda—ideal for hot days or whenever you want a simple yet delicious dessert.
- Vanilla ice cream
- Root beer (chilled)
Scoop two generous portions of vanilla ice cream into a tall glass. Slowly pour chilled root beer over the ice cream, filling the glass and allowing the foam to naturally rise.
Serve immediately with a straw and spoon to enjoy both the creamy ice cream and frothy soda.
This float is a nostalgic favorite that never goes out of style.
Its simplicity and delightful contrast of flavors and textures make it a quick, satisfying treat that can brighten any day or gathering.
Chocolate Coke Float
The chocolate coke float offers a rich and indulgent twist on the traditional float by pairing creamy chocolate ice cream with the crisp, sweet fizz of Coca-Cola.
It’s perfect for those who love a chocolatey dessert with a refreshing bubbly kick.
- Chocolate ice cream
- Coca-Cola (chilled)
- Optional: chocolate syrup or chocolate shavings for garnish
Place two to three scoops of chocolate ice cream in a tall glass.
Slowly pour chilled Coca-Cola over the ice cream, letting the soda foam rise naturally.
For extra indulgence, drizzle chocolate syrup on top or sprinkle with chocolate shavings. Serve with a straw and spoon.
This float creates a delicious balance between rich chocolate and fizzy cola, making it an exciting and refreshing dessert option that’s sure to please chocolate lovers and soda fans alike.
Orange Creamsicle Float
The orange creamsicle float is a bright, citrusy take on the traditional float, combining smooth vanilla ice cream with sparkling orange soda.
It evokes the nostalgic flavors of the classic creamsicle popsicle, making it a fun, refreshing treat that’s perfect for summer.
- Vanilla ice cream
- Orange soda (chilled)
Scoop vanilla ice cream into a tall glass.
Pour chilled orange soda slowly over the ice cream until the glass is nearly full, allowing the soda to foam. Serve immediately with a straw and spoon.
This float offers a delightful mix of creamy vanilla and tangy orange soda that’s both nostalgic and refreshing.
It’s an easy-to-make dessert that brings a burst of sunshine and sweetness to any occasion.
Black Cherry Float
The black cherry float is a deliciously fruity twist on the classic soda float.
Combining rich vanilla ice cream with the bold, sweet flavor of black cherry soda, it delivers a refreshing and slightly tart treat that’s perfect for warm weather or anytime you want a fun dessert with a fruity kick.
- Vanilla ice cream
- Black cherry soda (chilled)
Place two generous scoops of vanilla ice cream into a tall glass. Slowly pour chilled black cherry soda over the ice cream, allowing the bubbles to create a foamy head. Serve immediately with a straw and spoon for a refreshing experience.
This float beautifully balances creamy sweetness and fruity tang, creating a vibrant dessert that’s both nostalgic and exciting.
It’s a great way to mix up your soda float routine with a burst of cherry flavor.
Coffee Float
The coffee float offers a sophisticated and energizing take on the traditional float by combining rich vanilla ice cream with chilled coffee soda or cold brew soda.
It’s perfect for coffee lovers seeking a refreshing yet indulgent treat that pairs creamy sweetness with bold coffee notes.
- Vanilla ice cream
- Coffee soda or cold brew soda (chilled)
Scoop vanilla ice cream into a tall glass. Pour chilled coffee soda gently over the ice cream, letting the foam build naturally. Serve with a straw and spoon to enjoy both the creamy and fizzy layers.
This float is an elegant blend of creamy dessert and invigorating coffee flavors, perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up or a dessert with a little extra kick.
The balance of textures and tastes makes it a unique and satisfying indulgence.
Strawberry Soda Float
The strawberry soda float is a bright, sweet, and fruity dessert that combines smooth vanilla ice cream with sparkling strawberry soda.
It’s a playful and refreshing treat that captures the essence of summer with its vibrant color and delicious flavor.
- Vanilla ice cream
- Strawberry soda (chilled)
Add two scoops of vanilla ice cream into a tall glass. Slowly pour chilled strawberry soda over the ice cream, letting the bubbles create a delightful foam. Serve immediately with a straw and spoon.
This float offers a perfect harmony of creamy and fruity flavors, delivering a nostalgic yet refreshing dessert experience.
It’s a simple way to enjoy the classic combination of soda and ice cream with a delicious strawberry twist.
Cola Vanilla Float
The cola vanilla float is a classic favorite that pairs smooth vanilla ice cream with the crisp, sweet taste of cola.
This combination creates a delightful contrast of creamy and fizzy textures, making it a timeless and satisfying treat.
- Vanilla ice cream
- Cola (chilled)
Scoop two generous portions of vanilla ice cream into a tall glass. Slowly pour chilled cola over the ice cream, allowing the bubbles to form a foamy head.
Serve immediately with a straw and spoon for enjoying the creamy and bubbly layers together.
This float perfectly balances the rich sweetness of vanilla ice cream with the refreshing fizz of cola.
It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to summer parties.
Pineapple Float
The pineapple float is a tropical-inspired treat that blends creamy vanilla ice cream with sparkling pineapple soda.
Its bright, fruity flavor and creamy texture create a refreshing float that feels like a mini-vacation in a glass.
- Vanilla ice cream
- Pineapple soda (chilled)
Place two scoops of vanilla ice cream into a tall glass. Slowly pour chilled pineapple soda over the ice cream until the glass is almost full, allowing the soda to foam. Serve immediately with a straw and spoon.
This float’s tropical flavors and creamy richness make it an uplifting and fun dessert.
It’s an excellent choice for summer gatherings or whenever you crave a fruity twist on the traditional float.
Creamy Ginger Ale Float
The creamy ginger ale float offers a refreshing and subtly spicy take on the classic ice cream float.
Combining smooth vanilla ice cream with the crisp, lightly spicy flavor of ginger ale creates a unique and delightful dessert experience.
- Vanilla ice cream
- Ginger ale (chilled)
Scoop two generous portions of vanilla ice cream into a tall glass.
Slowly pour chilled ginger ale over the ice cream, letting the bubbles create a frothy top. Serve with a straw and spoon.
This float is a wonderful balance of creamy sweetness and zesty ginger spice.
It’s a great choice for those who enjoy a more sophisticated flavor profile while still indulging in a fun and fizzy dessert.
Creamy Peach Float
The creamy peach float is a delightful, fruity treat that pairs smooth vanilla ice cream with sparkling peach soda.
Its sweet and juicy flavors blend perfectly with the creamy texture, making it a refreshing and summery dessert.
- Vanilla ice cream
- Peach soda (chilled)
Scoop two generous portions of vanilla ice cream into a tall glass. Slowly pour chilled peach soda over the ice cream until the glass is nearly full, allowing the soda to foam naturally.
Serve immediately with a straw and spoon.
This float combines the luscious taste of ripe peaches with creamy ice cream, creating a deliciously refreshing dessert.
It’s an easy way to enjoy a fruity, fizzy treat that feels both indulgent and light.
Maple Cream Float
The maple cream float offers a rich and cozy twist on the traditional ice cream float by combining creamy vanilla ice cream with maple-flavored soda.
This float delivers warm, sweet flavors balanced by refreshing bubbles, perfect for a comforting yet fun dessert.
- Vanilla ice cream
- Maple soda (chilled)
Place two scoops of vanilla ice cream into a tall glass. Slowly pour chilled maple soda over the ice cream, allowing the bubbles to rise. Serve immediately with a straw and spoon.
This float’s unique maple flavor adds depth and warmth to the creamy, fizzy treat.
It’s a fantastic option for those looking for something a little different but still classic and satisfying.
Lime Sherbet Float
The lime sherbet float is a zesty and refreshing dessert that pairs tangy lime sherbet with sparkling lemon-lime soda.
This float offers a bright, citrusy flavor that’s both tart and sweet, making it a perfect palate cleanser or summer treat.
- Lime sherbet
- Lemon-lime soda (chilled)
Scoop two to three generous portions of lime sherbet into a tall glass. Slowly pour chilled lemon-lime soda over the sherbet until the glass is almost full, letting the foam build. Serve immediately with a straw and spoon.
This float combines lively citrus flavors with creamy sherbet and fizzy soda, resulting in a vibrant and refreshing dessert.
It’s a great choice when you want something light, tangy, and bubbly.
Cherry Vanilla Float
The cherry vanilla float is a sweet and classic combination that mixes creamy vanilla ice cream with fizzy cherry soda.
This pairing offers a nostalgic taste with a burst of cherry flavor, making it a delightful and refreshing treat.
- Vanilla ice cream
- Cherry soda (chilled)
Scoop two generous portions of vanilla ice cream into a tall glass.
Slowly pour chilled cherry soda over the ice cream, allowing the bubbles to create a foamy top. Serve immediately with a straw and spoon.
This float delivers a perfect balance between the smooth creaminess of vanilla and the fruity, fizzy cherry soda.
It’s an easy and enjoyable dessert that brings a playful twist to traditional soda floats.
Mango Float
The mango float is a tropical delight that combines creamy vanilla ice cream with sparkling mango soda.
This vibrant float offers a luscious and refreshing flavor perfect for warm days or when you want a fruity twist on the classic float.
- Vanilla ice cream
- Mango soda (chilled)
Place two scoops of vanilla ice cream into a tall glass. Slowly pour chilled mango soda over the ice cream until the glass is nearly full, letting the foam build up naturally. Serve with a straw and spoon.
This float captures the sweet and tangy essence of mango, paired with creamy ice cream and bubbly soda for a satisfying and refreshing treat.
It’s a simple way to enjoy tropical flavors in a fun, fizzy dessert.
Vanilla Cream Float
The vanilla cream float is a smooth and creamy variation of the classic float that blends vanilla ice cream with cream soda.
The rich, sweet flavor of cream soda enhances the ice cream’s smooth texture, creating a luscious and comforting dessert.
- Vanilla ice cream
- Cream soda (chilled)
Scoop two generous portions of vanilla ice cream into a tall glass.
Slowly pour chilled cream soda over the ice cream, allowing the soda to foam and mix gently. Serve immediately with a straw and spoon.
This float is an indulgent treat that emphasizes creamy sweetness and smooth textures.
It’s perfect for those who love a rich, classic float with a velvety twist.
Raspberry Float
The raspberry float is a vibrant and fruity dessert that pairs creamy vanilla ice cream with sparkling raspberry soda.
This combination creates a refreshing and slightly tart treat that’s perfect for any time you want a burst of berry flavor.
- Vanilla ice cream
- Raspberry soda (chilled)
Scoop two generous portions of vanilla ice cream into a tall glass. Slowly pour chilled raspberry soda over the ice cream, allowing the bubbles to create a frothy top. Serve immediately with a straw and spoon.
This float offers a lovely balance of creamy sweetness and bright raspberry tang, making it a delightful and refreshing dessert that’s both fun and flavorful.
Lemon Float
The lemon float is a zesty and invigorating treat that combines smooth vanilla ice cream with bubbly lemon soda.
Its bright citrus flavor and creamy texture make it a perfect refreshment for warm days or anytime you want a light dessert.
- Vanilla ice cream
- Lemon soda (chilled)
Add two scoops of vanilla ice cream into a tall glass. Slowly pour chilled lemon soda over the ice cream, letting the soda foam naturally. Serve immediately with a straw and spoon.
This float delivers a crisp, tangy citrus flavor paired with creamy vanilla, creating a refreshingly balanced dessert that awakens your palate with every sip.
Blueberry Float
The blueberry float combines the creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream with the fruity sparkle of blueberry soda.
This float offers a unique and flavorful twist on the traditional ice cream float, perfect for berry lovers.
- Vanilla ice cream
- Blueberry soda (chilled)
Place two scoops of vanilla ice cream into a tall glass. Slowly pour chilled blueberry soda over the ice cream, allowing the bubbles to rise and foam. Serve with a straw and spoon.
This float brings together creamy richness and vibrant blueberry flavor, creating a deliciously refreshing dessert that’s both playful and satisfying.
Honey Cream Float
The honey cream float is a smooth and subtly sweet dessert that combines creamy vanilla ice cream with sparkling honey-flavored soda.
This float offers a gentle floral sweetness balanced by fizzy bubbles, creating a soothing yet refreshing treat.
- Vanilla ice cream
- Honey soda (chilled)
Scoop two generous portions of vanilla ice cream into a tall glass. Slowly pour chilled honey soda over the ice cream, allowing the soda to foam naturally. Serve immediately with a straw and spoon.
This float is perfect for those who enjoy a delicate sweetness paired with creamy texture and effervescent fizz.
It’s an elegant and refreshing dessert that’s simple to make yet feels special.
Pina Colada Float
The pina colada float is a tropical-inspired treat blending creamy coconut ice cream with pineapple soda.
This float captures the classic pina colada flavor in a fun and fizzy dessert form, making it perfect for summer or anytime you want a taste of the tropics.
- Coconut ice cream
- Pineapple soda (chilled)
Place two scoops of coconut ice cream into a tall glass. Slowly pour chilled pineapple soda over the ice cream, letting the bubbles create a frothy top. Serve with a straw and spoon.
This float combines creamy coconut and sweet pineapple flavors with refreshing carbonation, delivering a luscious and uplifting dessert that feels like a tropical getaway.
Vanilla Cola Float
The vanilla cola float is a delicious spin on the classic cola float, featuring creamy vanilla ice cream paired with rich vanilla-flavored cola.
The added vanilla flavor in the soda enhances the creaminess and sweetness for a smooth and indulgent float.
- Vanilla ice cream
- Vanilla cola (chilled)
Scoop two generous portions of vanilla ice cream into a tall glass. Slowly pour chilled vanilla cola over the ice cream, allowing the soda to foam. Serve immediately with a straw and spoon.
This float offers an extra layer of vanilla flavor that perfectly complements the creamy ice cream and fizzy cola.
It’s a delightful dessert that’s both classic and a little more special.
Salted Caramel Float
The salted caramel float is a decadent twist that pairs creamy vanilla ice cream with sparkling caramel soda.
The hint of salt enhances the rich caramel flavor, creating a luxurious and refreshing dessert experience.
- Vanilla ice cream
- Caramel soda (chilled)
- Pinch of sea salt (optional)
Scoop two generous portions of vanilla ice cream into a tall glass. Slowly pour chilled caramel soda over the ice cream, allowing the bubbles to rise and create foam. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of sea salt on top if desired. Serve immediately with a straw and spoon.
This float beautifully balances sweet and salty notes with creamy and fizzy textures, making it an indulgent treat perfect for special occasions or when you want to elevate your soda float game.
Vanilla Almond Float
The vanilla almond float combines creamy vanilla ice cream with almond-flavored soda for a subtly nutty and sweet twist on the classic float.
It’s a smooth, aromatic dessert that feels both comforting and refreshing.
- Vanilla ice cream
- Almond soda (chilled)
Place two scoops of vanilla ice cream into a tall glass. Slowly pour chilled almond soda over the ice cream, letting the foam build naturally. Serve with a straw and spoon.
This float delivers delicate almond notes balanced by creamy vanilla and bubbly soda, creating a unique and sophisticated treat perfect for almond lovers and those seeking a new flavor adventure.
Watermelon Float
The watermelon float is a fun and fruity summer dessert that pairs refreshing watermelon soda with creamy vanilla ice cream.
It’s a light and bubbly float bursting with juicy, sweet watermelon flavor.
- Vanilla ice cream
- Watermelon soda (chilled)
Scoop two generous portions of vanilla ice cream into a tall glass. Slowly pour chilled watermelon soda over the ice cream, allowing the bubbles to create a frothy head. Serve immediately with a straw and spoon.
This float captures the sweet, refreshing taste of watermelon with creamy ice cream and fizzy soda, making it a perfect choice to cool down and enjoy on a hot day.
Spiced Apple Float
The spiced apple float combines creamy vanilla ice cream with sparkling apple soda infused with warm spices like cinnamon and clove.
This float offers a cozy yet refreshing twist, perfect for autumn or anytime you want a comforting dessert with fizz.
- Vanilla ice cream
- Spiced apple soda (chilled)
Scoop two generous portions of vanilla ice cream into a tall glass.
Slowly pour chilled spiced apple soda over the ice cream, letting the bubbles rise and foam. Serve immediately with a straw and spoon.
This float balances creamy sweetness with crisp apple flavor and warm spice notes, making it an inviting treat that’s both festive and refreshing.
Tropical Guava Float
The tropical guava float pairs smooth vanilla ice cream with bubbly guava soda, delivering a fruity and exotic dessert experience.
The bright, sweet flavor of guava complements the creamy ice cream perfectly for a refreshing tropical treat.
- Vanilla ice cream
- Guava soda (chilled)
Place two scoops of vanilla ice cream into a tall glass. Slowly pour chilled guava soda over the ice cream, allowing the soda to foam. Serve with a straw and spoon.
This float offers a luscious blend of tropical fruitiness and creamy texture, making it a fun and flavorful option for those who love unique, fruity floats.
Coconut Lime Float
The coconut lime float is a refreshing combination of creamy coconut ice cream and sparkling lime soda.
This float delivers a tropical burst of citrus balanced with smooth coconut creaminess, perfect for a light and zesty dessert.
- Coconut ice cream
- Lime soda (chilled)
Scoop two generous portions of coconut ice cream into a tall glass. Slowly pour chilled lime soda over the ice cream, letting the bubbles create a frothy top. Serve immediately with a straw and spoon.
This float blends creamy coconut and bright lime flavors for a deliciously refreshing treat that’s perfect for warm weather or anytime you want a tropical-inspired dessert.
Conclusion
Exploring these 27+ ice cream float recipes opens up a world of fun and flavor that goes beyond the ordinary. The marriage of creamy ice cream and sparkling soda creates endless opportunities to experiment with tastes and textures, making floats a perfect dessert for all ages. Whether you stick to the classics or try inventive new combinations, each float offers a unique experience that brings joy and nostalgia in every sip. So grab your favorite ice cream and soda, get creative, and enjoy the bubbly bliss of these delicious floats all year round.
