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This cheerful peppermint Christmas float brings back memories of laughter around the tree and holiday tunes filling the house. It is the ultimate quick treat to make December nights sweeter and get everyone smiling. Creamy vanilla ice cream swirls with fizzy lemon lime soda and cool peppermint for a drink that tastes like winter magic in a glass.
The very first time I whipped this up after a Christmas movie night my family insisted it become a yearly tradition. Now it is our go to for every cookie exchange and holiday get together.
Ingredients
- Milk: Brings a touch of creaminess and helps everything blend together. I use whole milk for richness but you can use low fat
- Peppermint extract: Fills the float with cool minty flavor. Always choose pure peppermint extract with only peppermint oil on the label for the freshest taste
- Vanilla ice cream: Creates the dreamy base and keeps things classic. Buy a high quality real vanilla ice cream for best texture
- 7 up: Adds bubbles and sweetness making the float light and sparkly. I recommend using chilled soda for extra fizz
- Crushed peppermint candy (optional garnish): Brings a pop of color and crunch. I like to buy classic red and white peppermint sticks and crush them myself for festive flair
Instructions
- Prepare the Punch Bowl:
- Thoroughly clean a large punch bowl or beverage jar and dry it well. Make sure it is plenty big to hold your soda plus ice cream without overflowing
- Mix the Ingredients:
- Pour the milk into the punch bowl followed by the peppermint extract. Scoop in all the vanilla ice cream. Gently pour in the chilled 7 up. Stir well with a long handled spoon scraping up from the bottom so the ice cream softens and all flavors blend
- Serve the Drink:
- Carefully ladle or pour the float mixture into serving glasses. Try to include a little extra ice cream in each glass for that lovely creamy swirl effect. If using crushed peppermint candy sprinkle a generous pinch onto the top of each float
- Final Touches:
- Add a spoon and a straw to each glass so guests can sip and scoop. Serve immediately while everything is cold bubbly and creamy for the best experience
Kids love helping with the scooping and sprinkling. My favorite part is the way pure peppermint extract wakes up your senses and the adorable pastel pink frosting from the creamy swirl. I will never forget last year when the cousins turned it into a friendly competition of who could decorate the prettiest float.
Storage Tips
Store any leftover mix in a covered pitcher in the fridge but add ice cream and candy only just before serving for best taste. The soda may lose some fizz but will still be tasty for up to a day.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap in club soda or a caffeine free lemon lime drink if 7 up is not on hand for a similar effect. Almond milk works well for those avoiding dairy. Feel free to use mint chocolate chip ice cream for a twist.
Serving Suggestions
Garnish each float with a mini candy cane or a dusting of cocoa powder for added flair. These are perfect beside cookies or as a light dessert after a holiday meal.
Cultural Context
Peppermint and ice cream have deep roots in holiday celebrations dating back to Victorian times when punch bowls and soda fountains were the centerpieces at winter gatherings. Serving a float still adds that classic old fashioned joy.
Seasonal Adaptations
For a Valentine treat use strawberry soda and pink ice cream. Try with a scoop of chocolate ice cream for a cool grasshopper float. Top with snowy mini marshmallows and shaved white chocolate for a New Years Eve twist.
Keep your ingredients chilled and enjoy instantly for the best fizz and creamy texture. This float is sure to bring holiday cheer to any gathering.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → What’s the best way to serve a peppermint float?
Serve in chilled glasses, top with extra ice cream, and sprinkle crushed peppermint candy for extra festivity.
- → Can I use another soda instead of 7 Up?
Yes, lemon-lime sodas or ginger ale also work well to pair with the peppermint and vanilla ice cream flavors.
- → How do I achieve a strong peppermint taste?
Use pure peppermint extract and adjust the amount to suit your preference for minty flavor intensity.
- → Can this be made ahead for a party?
You can mix the liquid ingredients in advance, but add ice cream and crushed candy just before serving.
- → Are there ways to customize the float?
Try chocolate ice cream, different candies, or add festive sprinkles for a fun twist on this holiday drink.