Vanilla Bean Root Beer Floats Recipe | Classic Nostalgic Dessert Drink

Tall glass of vanilla bean root beer float topped with whipped cream and a cherry.
Cool off with this classic vanilla bean root beer float — creamy, fizzy, and irresistible!
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Tall glass of vanilla bean root beer float topped with whipped cream and a cherry.

Vanilla Bean Root Beer Floats Recipe | Classic Nostalgic Dessert Drink

Make the perfect vanilla bean root beer float with creamy ice cream and fizzy root beer. A quick, refreshing, and nostalgic dessert drink for summer parties, family fun, or anytime you crave a sweet treat.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Beverage treat, Dessert
Cuisine American soda fountain classic, Nostalgic diner-style dessert
Servings 2 floats (easily scaled up for a crowd)
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • Tall float glasses or frosted mugs
  • Ice cream scoop
  • Long spoons and reusable straws
  • Measuring spoons (for vanilla paste)
  • Optional: whipped cream dispenser, microplane for chocolate/nutmeg garnish

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups (16 oz) chilled root beer (classic or craft brand)
  • 4 scoops vanilla bean ice cream (firm, straight from freezer)
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla bean paste (or seeds scraped from ½ pod)
  • Whipped cream (optional topping)
  • Chocolate shavings or sprinkles (optional garnish)
  • Maraschino cherry (optional garnish)

Instructions
 

  • Chill glasses: Place float glasses in the freezer for 10–15 minutes for frosty rims.
  • Scoop ice cream: Add 2 scoops of vanilla bean ice cream to each glass.
  • Add vanilla bean: Swirl ¼ teaspoon vanilla bean paste into each glass for extra flavor.
  • Pour root beer: Tilt the glass and pour root beer slowly along the side to control foam. Pause halfway, let foam settle, then finish pouring.
  • Top and serve: Add whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and a cherry if desired. Serve immediately with a straw and long spoon.
  • Pro tip: Pour root beer in stages to avoid overflow and keep layers defined.

Notes

  • Best root beer: Choose one with balanced sweetness and solid carbonation; craft brands add herbal complexity.
  • Ice cream choice: Vanilla bean ice cream gives deeper flavor; French vanilla adds richness.
  • Make-ahead: Scoop ice cream into glasses and refreeze briefly; pour root beer tableside for parties.
  • Dietary swaps: Use dairy-free vanilla ice cream and naturally sweetened root beer for a lighter version.
  • Variations: Try chocolate drizzle, espresso shot (affogato-float hybrid), or salted caramel topping.
  • Serving tip: Always serve immediately—floats are about the live fizz and creamy melt.
 
Keyword classic root beer float, frosty mug float, nostalgic dessert drink, soda fountain dessert, summer party treat, Vanilla bean root beer float