Laura Mariano
A Festive Sip That Feels Like Christmas
One of my favorite holiday traditions started with a simple scoop of peppermint ice cream. It was Christmas Eve, the kids were in fuzzy pajamas, and we needed one last treat to cap off the night. I grabbed some soda, layered it over the ice cream, and topped it with whipped cream and crushed candy canes. Their eyes lit up—and just like that, the Peppermint Christmas Float became a yearly ritual.
This drink is pure holiday magic. It’s creamy, fizzy, and bursting with peppermint cheer. Think of it as a wintery twist on the classic root beer float—cool, refreshing, and decked out in festive toppings. It’s nostalgic for adults, exciting for kids, and ridiculously easy to make.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, building a dessert table, or snuggling up for a movie night, this float fits right in. It’s customizable, quick to assemble, and guaranteed to bring smiles. Add sprinkles, drizzle white chocolate, or spike it for grown-ups—the possibilities are as joyful as the season itself.
What Is a Peppermint Christmas Float?
A Peppermint Christmas Float is a holiday-themed ice cream float made with peppermint ice cream and soda, typically lemon-lime or vanilla cream. Served cold in tall glasses, it’s topped with whipped cream, crushed candy canes, and festive sprinkles for a drink that looks as good as it tastes.
Inspired by the classic root beer float, this version swaps out the traditional flavors for a wintery blend of mint and fizz. The result is a creamy, refreshing treat that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.
You can keep it simple or dress it up with add-ins like vanilla ice cream, peppermint extract, or white chocolate syrup. It’s a fun, interactive dessert that’s loved by all ages—and it’s ready in minutes.
Why This Recipe Is So Popular
This float is a holiday favorite for good reason:
- Quick & Easy: No cooking, no prep—just scoop, pour, and garnish.
- Kid-Friendly: Sweet, fizzy, and fun to decorate.
- Customizable: Mix and match ice creams, sodas, and toppings.
- Party-Perfect: Great for dessert tables, DIY drink stations, or cozy nights in.
It’s also budget-friendly and easy to scale. Make a single float for yourself or set up a festive float bar for a crowd. Guests can choose their own toppings and build their perfect holiday sip.
Whether you’re looking for a whimsical dessert or a nostalgic treat, the Peppermint Christmas Float delivers. It’s festive, flavorful, and guaranteed to bring smiles.
Ingredient Breakdown & Flavor Roles
Here’s what makes this float so magical:
Base Ingredients:
- Peppermint Ice Cream: The creamy, minty foundation. It’s cool, refreshing, and sets the holiday tone.
- Clear Soda: Lemon-lime soda like Sprite or 7UP adds fizz and sweetness. Vanilla cream soda works too.
- Whipped Cream: A fluffy topper that adds lightness and visual appeal.
- Crushed Candy Canes: Crunchy, minty garnish that adds texture and sparkle.
Optional Add-ins:
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Softens the mint and adds creaminess.
- Peppermint Extract: Boosts the mint flavor—use sparingly.
- Red or Green Sprinkles: Adds festive flair and color.
- White Chocolate Chips or Syrup: Adds richness and a hint of decadence.
- Club Soda or Sparkling Water: For a lighter, less sweet version.
Bold Tip: Use chilled glasses and soda for maximum fizz and float height. Warm soda melts the ice cream faster and reduces the bubbly effect.
Tools & Prep Tips
You don’t need much to make this float, but a few tools help:
- Ice Cream Scoop: For perfect scoops.
- Tall Glasses or Mason Jars: Show off the layers and keep the fizz contained.
- Spoon or Straw: For sipping and scooping.
- Measuring Spoons: If using extract or syrup.
- Optional: Piping bag for a polished whipped cream swirl.
Bold Tip: Crush candy canes ahead of time and store in a jar—they’re perfect for garnishing drinks, desserts, and even hot cocoa.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Scoop Ice Cream: Add 2–3 scoops of peppermint ice cream into a tall glass.
- Pour Soda: Slowly pour soda along the side of the glass until it fizzes to the top.
- Top: Add a generous swirl of whipped cream.
- Garnish: Sprinkle crushed candy canes, sprinkles, or white chocolate chips.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately with a straw or spoon.
Bold Tip: Pour soda slowly to control foam and prevent overflow—especially helpful when serving kids or making multiple floats at once.
Flavor Variations & Dietary Adaptations
Peppermint Christmas Floats are delightfully customizable, making them perfect for all kinds of holiday celebrations. Here are some fun twists and adaptations:
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of peppermint schnapps for adults, or mix in a drop of peppermint extract for extra minty intensity.
- Sweet & Savory: Stir in pineapple chunks or drizzle honey over the whipped cream for a sweet contrast to the cool mint.
- Southwestern Style: Try a chocolate soda base with crushed cinnamon candy for a bold, unexpected twist.
- Low-Fat Version: Use light peppermint ice cream and top with low-fat whipped topping or Greek yogurt.
- Vegan Option: Use dairy-free peppermint ice cream and coconut whipped cream. Many brands offer plant-based sodas and toppings that taste just as festive.
Whether you’re serving kids, adults, or guests with dietary preferences, this float can flex to fit the occasion.
Bold Tip: Taste your soda and ice cream before assembling—some peppermint flavors are stronger than others, and balance is key to a perfect float.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Peppermint Christmas Floats are a showstopper on any holiday table. Here’s how to serve them with style:
- Classic Presentation: Serve in tall clear glasses or mason jars to show off the layers.
- Party Bar: Set up a DIY float station with different ice creams, sodas, and toppings—let guests build their own.
- Pairings:
- Serve with sugar cookies, gingerbread, or chocolate bark for a sweet spread.
- Pair with drinks like hot cocoa, sparkling cider, or peppermint lattes for a cozy contrast.
- For adults, offer a splash of peppermint schnapps or crème de menthe.
Presentation Tip: Garnish with whipped cream, crushed candy canes, red and green sprinkles, or a mini candy cane hooked on the rim. A drizzle of white chocolate syrup adds elegance.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch or a movie night, these floats bring instant cheer and a touch of magic.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
While Peppermint Christmas Floats are best served fresh, here are a few tips to prep ahead:
- Crush Candy Canes: Store in a jar for quick garnishing.
- Chill Glasses & Soda: Keep everything cold for maximum fizz and float height.
- Whipped Cream: Pipe or spoon into a bowl and refrigerate until ready to use.
- Storage: Assembled floats don’t store well—ice cream melts quickly in soda. Instead, prep ingredients and assemble just before serving.
Bold Tip: Got leftovers? Stir melted float into hot cocoa or coffee for a peppermint mocha twist. It’s a delicious second life for your festive treat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even simple drinks have their quirks. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Using warm soda or glasses: Reduces fizz and float height.
- Pouring soda too fast: Causes overflow and mess.
- Skipping whipped cream: Misses the festive flair.
- Overloading toppings: Can weigh down the float and make it messy.
Bold Tip: Pour soda slowly along the side of the glass to control foam and keep the layers clean and beautiful.
FAQs
Can I make Peppermint Christmas Floats ahead of time? Not recommended—ice cream melts quickly. Prep ingredients and assemble just before serving.
Can I use homemade peppermint ice cream? Absolutely! Homemade adds a personal touch and lets you control the flavor intensity.
Is this drink kid-friendly? Yes! Just skip any alcohol-based add-ins. Kids love the fizz and festive toppings.
Can I make this dairy-free? Yes—use plant-based peppermint ice cream and coconut whipped cream. Many brands offer great alternatives.
What soda works best? Lemon-lime sodas like Sprite or 7UP are classic. Vanilla cream soda or club soda also work well.
Can I serve this at a party? Definitely! Set up a float bar with toppings and let guests build their own. It’s interactive and fun.
Can I add alcohol? Yes—for adults, add peppermint schnapps, crème de menthe, or a splash of vanilla vodka.
Would you like me to wrap this up with a printable recipe card or turn it into a holiday-themed menu idea? I’d love to help you finish it with flair!
Tasty Peppermint Christmas Float – Festive, Creamy & Holiday-Ready
Equipment
- Ice cream scoop
- Tall glasses or mason jars
- Spoon or straw
- Measuring spoons (for extract or syrup)
- Optional: piping bag for whipped cream
- Bold Tip: Crush candy canes ahead of time and store in a jar for quick garnishing all season long.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients:
- 2–3 scoops peppermint ice cream per glass
- ½–¾ cup lemon-lime soda (e.g., Sprite or 7UP)
- Whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp crushed candy canes
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 scoop vanilla ice cream (for creamier blend)
- ¼ tsp peppermint extract (for extra minty flavor)
- Red or green sprinkles
- 1 tbsp white chocolate chips or syrup
- Club soda or sparkling water (for lighter version)
Instructions
- Scoop Ice Cream: Add 2–3 scoops of peppermint ice cream into each tall glass.
- Pour Soda: Slowly pour soda along the side of the glass until it fizzes to the top.
- Top: Add a generous swirl of whipped cream.
- Garnish: Sprinkle crushed candy canes, sprinkles, or white chocolate chips.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately with a straw or spoon.
- Bold Tip: Pour soda slowly to control foam and prevent overflow—especially helpful when serving kids!
Notes
- Make it a party bar: Set out toppings and let guests build their own floats.
- Dairy-free option: Use plant-based ice cream and whipped topping.
- Flavor twist: Try chocolate soda or vanilla cream soda for a fun variation.
- Storage: Best served fresh—ice cream melts quickly in soda.
- Presentation: Serve in clear glasses to show off the layers and colors.
- Leftover tip: Melted float makes a great addition to hot cocoa or coffee for a peppermint mocha vibe.
