As the air turns crisp and the holiday lights twinkle, there’s nothing quite like the sweet magic of a Festive Peppermint Christmas Float to get everyone in the holiday spirit. This delightful treat combines creamy ice cream with the refreshing crunch of crushed peppermint candy, creating a drink that’s as vibrant in flavor as it is in presentation. Not only is this float a whimsical addition to your holiday gatherings, but it’s also incredibly easy to whip up—perfect for busy home chefs looking to impress. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that appeals to the sweet tooth in all of us! So, are you ready to dive into a festive float that will make your holiday celebrations extra special?
Why Make a Festive Peppermint Float?
Irresistibly Fun: This float brings a playful twist to your holiday drinks, transforming ordinary gatherings into extraordinary celebrations.
Sweet and Creamy: The combination of rich ice cream with peppermint candy offers a delightful indulgence that will leave you and your guests craving more.
Quick and Easy: With minimal ingredients and just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious drink ready in no time—perfect for busy holiday hosting!
Versatile Options: Feel free to substitute with dairy-free ice cream or flavored sparkling waters for a unique spin. It’s adaptable to suit any festive gathering!
Instant Crowd-Pleaser: Whether at a cozy family dinner or a vibrant party, this float is sure to bring smiles and spark joy—perfect alongside your favorite holiday treats like Cranberry Pistachio Occasion or Cranberry Pineapple Dessert.
Festive Peppermint Christmas Float Ingredients
For the Drink Base
- Ice Cream – Adds creaminess and indulgent texture; you can use dairy-free ice cream for a vegan option.
- Holiday Beverage Mix – Creates a refreshing fizzy aspect; any clear soda or sparkling water will work perfectly.
For the Garnish
- Crushed Peppermint Candy – Provides a refreshing mint flavor and festive crunch; consider using peppermint extract for a smoother texture.
Optional Add-ins
- Flavored Sparkling Water – Experiment with flavors like cranberry or pomegranate for a unique twist on the classic float.
- Peppermint Schnapps or Bailey’s – For an adult version of the float, add a splash for extra indulgence.
Enjoy whipping up this irresistible Festive Peppermint Christmas Float and make your holiday gatherings extra special!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Festive Peppermint Christmas Float
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Start by collecting all your ingredients and equipment for the Festive Peppermint Christmas Float. You’ll need a large punch bowl or a serving beverage jar, a scoop for the ice cream, and glasses for serving. Ensure everything is clean and ready for assembly to create a festive presentation that’s sure to impress.
Step 2: Prepare the Beverage Base
In your punch bowl, pour your chosen holiday beverage mix, whether it’s clear soda or sparkling water. Depending on your preference, you can also include flavored sparkling water for that extra flair. Stir gently for about 30 seconds until all the bubbles dance playfully, creating a fizzy foundation for your float.
Step 3: Mix the Festive Flavors
Once the beverage base is prepared, it’s time to add a layer of flavor. If desired, sprinkle in crushed peppermint candy, swirling it gently into the mixture. This addition infuses a refreshing mint taste and looks delightful, making your Festive Peppermint Christmas Float visually appealing as well.
Step 4: Serve the Beverage Mix
Pour the beautifully mixed holiday drink into individual serving glasses, filling each about three-quarters full. This portion allows room for the ice cream and prevents overflow. As you pour, watch the bubbles rise, creating a festive atmosphere and building anticipation for this scrumptious treat.
Step 5: Top with Ice Cream
Now for the star of the show! Take a scoop of ice cream and delicately place it on top of each glass filled with the beverage mix. As the creamy ice cream starts to melt into the fizzy drink, it creates an inviting swirl of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and elevate the whole experience.
Step 6: Add Peppermint Garnish
Sprinkle a generous amount of crushed peppermint candy over the ice cream for a crunchy, colorful garnish. This final touch not only enhances the visual appeal of your Festive Peppermint Christmas Float but also adds to the delightful minty flavor that everyone loves, making it a truly indulgent holiday treat.
Step 7: Present and Serve
Serve your completed Festive Peppermint Christmas Float with a spoon and straw for easy enjoyment. Encourage your guests to dig in and savor the layers of flavors. The fizzy refreshment combined with creamy ice cream and peppermint bursts awaits, creating a joyful moment for all occasions, from family get-togethers to holiday parties.
Make Ahead Options
These Festive Peppermint Christmas Floats are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the beverage base (mixing your sparkling water or soda with the crushed peppermint candy) up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in a sealed container to preserve its fizz and flavor. The ice cream can also be scooped ahead of time and kept in the freezer, ready to top each glass. When you’re ready to serve, simply pour the prepared drink mixture into glasses and add the ice cream scoop right before enjoying. This way, you’ll whip up these delightful floats with minimal effort, making your holiday celebrations seamless and extra festive!
Festive Peppermint Christmas Float Variations
Feel free to customize your Festive Peppermint Christmas Float to suit your taste, and bring a touch of creativity to your holiday celebrations!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute ice cream with dairy-free ice cream or coconut yogurt for a vegan-friendly version.
- Flavored Sparkling Water: Use cranberry or pomegranate sparkling water to enhance the fruity notes of your float.
- Adult Twist: Add a splash of peppermint schnapps or Bailey’s for a delightful adult version that will elevate your holiday cheer.
- Minty Chocolate: Mix in crushed chocolate mint candies for an extra layer of indulgent flavor that complements the peppermint.
- Creamy Variation: Swap ice cream for vanilla yogurt or whipped cream for a lighter, fluffier texture that’s still deliciously festive.
- Seasonal Fruits: Garnish with fresh seasonal fruits like raspberries or pomegranate seeds for a burst of color and flavor—perfect next to Cranberry Pistachio Occasion!
- Nutty Crunch: Add a sprinkle of crushed nuts like pecans or almonds to provide delightful crunch amidst the creaminess of the float.
- Layered Flavors: Consider layering different flavors of ice cream like mint chocolate chip for a fun color contrast and enticing taste.
Experiment away, and let your creativity shine, just like the festive spirit this season brings!
What to Serve with Festive Peppermint Christmas Float
As you gather around the table this holiday season, elevate your celebrations with delightful accompaniments that complement the sweetness of your festive float.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: The chewy texture and rich chocolate flavor provide a delightful contrast to the creamy and minty float.
Gingerbread Men: Their warm spices enhance the holiday atmosphere while offering a crunchy counterpart to your drink. Serve them alongside for a nostalgic touch.
Mini Fruit Tartlets: Fresh fruit tartlets add a burst of color and freshness, balancing the sweetness of the float with their tangy cream. A bite of tart right after a sip is pure joy!
Caramel Popcorn: Sweet and crunchy, this treat brings a fun, salty contrast to the creamy float. It’s perfect for snacking as you enjoy your drink.
Spiced Apple Cider: This warm beverage adds cozy undertones and spices to your gathering, creating a wonderful sensory experience that pairs well with your festive treat.
Peppermint Bark: Enhance the mintiness of your float with layers of chocolate and peppermint bark. It’s a delightful sweet bite that leaves a lasting festive impression.
Add these delightful options to your holiday spread so everyone can indulge in the magical flavors of the season together!
How to Store and Freeze Festive Peppermint Christmas Float
Fridge: Keep leftover drink preparations in a covered container for up to 2 days. However, only store the beverage mix—avoid adding ice cream until you’re ready to serve to maintain its texture.
Freezer: You can freeze any remaining ice cream in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Just remember that it won’t be as creamy after thawing, so enjoy it in milkshakes or other desserts instead!
Reheating: This recipe is best enjoyed fresh, so no reheating is necessary. If you need to remake the drink, simply follow the original steps for a delightful refresh!
Assembly Tip: Don’t prepare the full float ahead of time; serve immediately after topping with ice cream to ensure it remains fizzy and fun!
Expert Tips for Festive Peppermint Christmas Float
Proper Ice Cream Scoop: Use a warm scooper to easily create perfectly rounded ice cream balls that sit beautifully on top of your float.
Freshness Matters: For the best flavor, always use fresh peppermint candy. Stale candy can lose its crunch and minty flavor.
Layer Beautifully: Pour the beverage mix slowly and at an angle to create a layered effect before adding ice cream for an enticing presentation.
Quick Serve Timing: Assemble the float right before serving to ensure the fizzy aspect remains vibrant and the ice cream doesn’t melt too quickly.
Nutty Twists: Don’t forget to experiment! Adding crushed nuts will provide an extra layer of texture that complements the sweet flavors of your Festive Peppermint Christmas Float.
Festive Peppermint Christmas Float Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ice cream for my float?
Absolutely! Look for high-quality ice cream that is creamy and rich—this will create the best indulgent experience. If you’re catering to dietary restrictions, opt for dairy-free ice cream that still delivers on flavor. Brands that are labeled as “premium” often have a higher butterfat content, which enhances the creaminess factor.
How should I store leftover Festive Peppermint Christmas Float?
Very good question! Keep any leftover drink mixture in a covered container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, it is essential to store the beverage mix separately from the ice cream. Don’t add the ice cream until you’re ready to serve, as it will maintain that wonderful texture and prevent it from melting into the drink.
Can I freeze the float for later use?
Here’s how: while you can’t freeze the complete float, you can freeze any remaining ice cream in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Just remember to use it for other desserts like milkshakes, as thawed ice cream may not have the same creamy texture. Blend the leftover beverage base with crushed ice for a slushy-like treat if you’d like to enjoy a frosty version later on!
What if my float overflows while serving?
No worries! If your beverage mix spills over, take it as a cue to use larger glasses next time. When pouring, fill each glass about three-quarters full before adding the ice cream—this helps control the volume and maintain that fun fizzy experience without any messy surprises!
Is this drink suitable for kids or those with allergies?
Certainly! The Festive Peppermint Christmas Float is a fun treat for kids! Just make sure to check for any allergies regarding the candy and ice cream. For those who may be lactose intolerant or vegan, substitute with dairy-free ice cream and ensure your candy is free from allergens, such as nuts or gluten.
Can I make this float in advance for a party?
While you can prepare the drink ingredients a few hours ahead, it’s best to assemble the float just before serving to maintain that fizzy fun and creamy texture. Gather your ingredients and make it a fun activity with your guests for added festive cheer!
Festive Peppermint Christmas Float: A Creamy Holiday Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Gather all your ingredients and equipment for the Festive Peppermint Christmas Float.
- In your punch bowl, pour your chosen holiday beverage mix and stir gently for about 30 seconds.
- Add crushed peppermint candy to the beverage base and swirl gently.
- Pour the holiday drink into glasses, filling each about three-quarters full.
- Take a scoop of ice cream and place it on top of each glass.
- Sprinkle crushed peppermint candy over the ice cream for garnish.
- Serve the float with a spoon and straw for easy enjoyment.