Is there anything more nostalgic, or refreshing, than a classic ice cream float? Whether you're reliving childhood memories or creating new ones, ice cream floats are the perfect blend of creamy, fizzy, and sweet. With just two ingredients at their core (ice cream and soda), floats are easy to make and endlessly customizable.
Ready to level up your summer sips? Here are some of the best ice cream float combos to try ASAP.
Best Ice Cream Floats Perfect for Summer!
Why it’s a favorite: The OG float. The spicy, slightly herbal fizz of root beer paired with smooth vanilla is a timeless combo.
Pro Tip: Use a frosted mug for that authentic soda shop feel.
Apple Cider floats are a great transitional dessert for fall when you are in between all things fall and still being hot outside.
Kitchen Getaway
What is in a purple cow float?
Sure, you may have heard of root beer floats or Coke floats, but the purple cow is often a mystery to some. However, it is super simple with just ice cream mixed with grape soda.
The Tip Toe Fairy
"This float with pineapple juice is perfect to have at a summer birthday party. It’s tropical, fruity, and creamy all at the same time. Did I mention delicious, too? The kids will LOVE it!" - The Tip Toe Fairy
The Crafted Sparrow
Made with Greek frozen yogurt and 7up 10... "These Piña Colada Floats are my way of keeping the extra calories away while enjoying a cool treat with all the flavors you’d expect." - The Crafted Sparrow
Why it’s a getaway in a glass: Light, tropical, and beachy. It's like sipping dessert on vacation.
Make it fun: Add a maraschino cherry and a cocktail umbrella!
Picture Source: House of Yumm
House of Yumm no longer has this recipe on their site, but you can find another peach and cream float over at The Gracious Wife
"Nothing is more refreshing on a hot day than a fizzy, sweet Peach soda with some vanilla ice cream, which makes this Peaches and Cream Float!" - House of Yumm
Noshing with the Nolands
"Today, I bring you a super-easy and amazing-tasting float. One that brings me back to my childhood, Orange Creamsicle Float!! I have loved this flavor combination forever." - Noshing with the Nolands
Why it’s iconic: Tastes just like those orange creamsicle popsicles from childhood—but better.
Perfect for: Summer BBQs, pool parties, or a fun after-dinner treat.
Cincyshopper
"This CopyCat Chick-fil-A Frosted Lemonade is going to quickly become one of your favorite frozen treats this summer. A blend of CopyCat Chick-fil-A Lemonade (with a bit more lemon) and Vanilla Ice cream. Tasty and totally refreshing! - Jen from CincyShopper
Yellow Bliss Road
"This Cherry Lime Ice Cream Float is a tart, sweet, and refreshing treat, and perfect for the hot summer days ahead!" - Yellow Bliss Road
LollyJane
This delicious butterbeer ice cream float is the perfect magical treat
Strawberries & Cream
- What’s in it: Strawberry soda + vanilla or strawberry ice cream
- Why it’s special: It tastes like a fizzy strawberry milkshake—light, fruity, and deliciously pink.
- Make it extra: Add fresh strawberries or a drizzle of strawberry syrup.
Chocolate Cola Float
- What’s in it: Coca-Cola + chocolate ice cream
- Why it’s a win: Like a grown-up twist on a chocolate soda, it’s rich, bubbly, and decadent.
- Try this: Add a cherry on top and a splash of cherry syrup for a Black Forest vibe.
Coffee Buzz Float
- What’s in it: Cold brew coffee or coffee soda + coffee or vanilla ice cream
- Why it’s genius: For those who like their dessert with a caffeine kick. It’s part coffee break, part dessert indulgence.
- Bonus: Add caramel drizzle or a dusting of cinnamon.
If all of these delicious pictures have you pining for a classic ice cream parlor treat, whip up one of these best ice cream floats today.
Here are some tools we find helpful...
What is the difference between an ice cream soda and a float?
I think in most cases, when people are referring to either or they are talking about a soda mixed with ice cream. However, some people may refer to an ice cream soda as seltzer water or flavored syrup mixed with ice cream.
Why does soda react with ice cream?
When carbonation comes into contact with the ice cream, carbon dioxide bubbles are released, causing the reaction. The soda also helps to free air bubbles trapped within the ice cream.
How the best ice cream floats came to be!
The ice cream float was invented by Robert Green in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1874. The story is that, on a particularly hot day, Mr. Green ran out of ice for the flavored drinks he was selling and used vanilla ice cream instead. Thus, inventing a new drink, the ice cream float.
Tips for the Perfect Float:
- Scoop first, pour second. Start with 2–3 scoops of ice cream, then slowly pour the soda to avoid overflow.
- Use chilled glasses to keep everything cold and fizzy longer.
- Get creative! Try mixing sodas, experimenting with different ice cream flavors, or even adding a splash of flavored syrup or whipped cream on top.
Whether you love a classic or want to try something bold, there's an ice cream float for everyone. So grab a spoon, a straw, and a tall glass...it’s float season, and we’re here for every bubbly, melty moment.
What’s your favorite float combo? Share it in the comments!
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