Apple Cider Floats

Oh wow, you guys! I just tried apple cider floats. They look so fun and fizzy!

I took a sip, and wow… the cold ice cream meets the sweet cider. It’s creamy, fizzy, and a little magical.

You have to taste this. Every gulp feels like a party in your mouth!

Seriously, you should make one. Grab some cider, ice cream, and let’s float!

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cider Float Recipe

Apple cider floats offer so many things to love, and I can’t wait to share them with you. Let me explain why this recipe is a must-try:

1. Delicious and Festive Flavors

The flavors of spiced apple cider paired with rich vanilla ice cream will remind you of everything cozy and warm about fall. It’s the perfect treat for a chilly day!

2. Quick and Easy

You don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to whip up this drink. With just a few ingredients and a little bit of creativity, you’ll have this dessert ready in no time.

3. A Drink for All Ages

Kids and adults alike will adore this drink. For the grown-ups, you can add a splash of rum or bourbon to make it even more special, but it’s also delicious as a non-alcoholic treat for the whole family.

4. Customizable

You can personalize your apple cider float by using different flavors of ice cream, drizzling on unique toppings, or switching out the spices to match your mood.

5. Perfect for Parties and Gatherings

Whether you’re hosting a Halloween bash, Thanksgiving dinner, or a cozy winter get-together, this float will be the talk of the event. It’s a show-stopper that will impress guests of all ages.

Ingredients

Making apple cider floats requires just a handful of ingredients, but the combination is magical. Here’s everything you need to create this seasonal treat:

• Apple Cider (1 cup)
  Apple cider is the star of this drink. Opt for a high-quality, fresh apple cider for the best flavor. If you’re craving a more tangy cider, go for one with a touch of tartness, or choose a sweeter variety for a smoother flavor.
• Ginger Ale (1/2 cup)
  The addition of ginger ale adds a little fizz and a light spice that balances out the richness of the ice cream. You can also substitute ginger beer for an extra kick, but ginger ale works just perfectly for that slight fizz without overpowering the apple cider.
• Vanilla Ice Cream (1-2 scoops)
  A scoop (or two!) of creamy vanilla ice cream is the traditional choice for this float, but feel free to experiment with other flavors like cinnamon, caramel, or even apple pie to enhance the seasonal theme.
• Ground Cinnamon and Nutmeg (for sprinkling)
  A light dusting of cinnamon and nutmeg will give your float that warm, comforting, spiced flavor that feels like a hug in a cup. The aroma of the spices also adds an extra layer of fall indulgence.
• Caramel Sauce (1-2 tablespoons)
  Caramel sauce is the finishing touch that turns this apple cider float into a dessert masterpiece. Its richness balances out the tartness of the cider and the creaminess of the ice cream, giving you that perfect sweet-to-salty contrast. You can use store-bought caramel sauce or make your own for an even more decadent experience.

Variations for Your Apple Cider Floats

While the classic apple cider float is already a treat, you can get creative by swapping out or adding ingredients to make it your own. Here are some fun variations to consider:

1. Spiked Apple Cider Float (For Adults Only!)

For a grown-up version, add a shot of your favorite dark rum, bourbon, or spiced rum to the float. The warmth of the alcohol pairs perfectly with the cider’s spices. You can also add a splash of apple schnapps or even a little bit of whiskey for an extra cozy touch.

2. Cinnamon Ice Cream Float

If you’re a cinnamon lover, try using cinnamon ice cream in place of vanilla. It complements the apple cider perfectly and takes the whole fall flavor profile to the next level.

3. Apple Pie Float

Swap in apple pie ice cream for a dessert within a dessert! Apple pie ice cream, often made with chunks of baked apple and buttery crust swirls, adds a deliciously authentic apple pie taste to the float.

4. Vegan Apple Cider Float

For those who prefer a dairy-free treat, you can make this float with non-dairy vanilla ice cream (like almond milk or coconut milk ice cream) and a plant-based ginger ale. You can also use maple syrup or agave in place of caramel sauce for a more natural sweetness.

5. Apple Cider Float with Caramel Apple Syrup

Want to up the caramel flavor? Use a caramel apple syrup or drizzle over the float for an extra layer of flavor. You can find these syrups in the seasonal section of many grocery stores during the fall months.

How to Make an Apple Cider Float

Making an apple cider float is incredibly easy, and it only takes a few minutes. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have your perfect drink ready to enjoy:

Step 1: Prepare Your Glass

Start by choosing a tall, sturdy glass. I recommend using a pint glass or a mason jar for a rustic touch. If you want a frosty effect, place your glass in the freezer for about 10 minutes before serving. This will help keep your float cold longer.

Step 2: Add the Apple Cider and Ginger Ale

Pour 1 cup of chilled apple cider into your glass. Then, top it off with 1/2 cup of ginger ale. You should see a slight fizz as the ginger ale mixes with the cider. Don’t worry if it bubbles over a little bit – that just adds to the fun!

Step 3: Add the Ice Cream

Carefully add 1-2 scoops of vanilla ice cream into the glass. The ice cream will float on top, creating a beautiful, creamy layer. If you want a stronger ice cream flavor, add two scoops; if you want to keep it a little lighter, one scoop is plenty.

Step 4: Sprinkle with Cinnamon and Nutmeg

Dust the top of your ice cream with a pinch of ground cinnamon and nutmeg. This is what really gives the float that cozy, fall-inspired vibe. The spices will float on top of the ice cream, creating a beautiful contrast of color and flavor.

Step 5: Drizzle with Caramel Sauce

Finally, drizzle 1-2 tablespoons of caramel sauce over the top of your apple cider float. The caramel will slowly melt into the cider and ice cream, adding a rich sweetness to balance the tangy cider.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

Serve the apple cider float with a straw for sipping and a spoon for digging into the ice cream. It’s a fun and delicious dessert in a glass, perfect for savoring right away.

How to Serve Apple Cider Floats

Apple cider floats are incredibly versatile and can be served in various settings, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. Here are some fun ways to serve them:

1. As a Dessert for a Fall Dinner

Serve apple cider floats as the perfect ending to your fall-themed dinner, whether it’s a Thanksgiving meal or a cozy autumn evening with friends. They’re easy to make in bulk and can be served in individual glasses for a fun touch.

2. At a Fall Party or Halloween Bash

These floats are the ultimate crowd-pleaser for fall parties and Halloween get-togethers. Set up a DIY apple cider float bar with different ice cream flavors, toppings, and syrups for guests to customize their own floats.

3. Perfect for Cozy Nights at Home

On a cold evening, nothing beats curling up with a warm blanket and a glass of apple cider float. It’s the perfect treat to enjoy while watching your favorite fall movies or reading a good book.

4. Holiday Gatherings

Apple cider floats are an excellent addition to any holiday gathering, from Thanksgiving to Christmas. Serve them as a festive dessert or as a special drink during the holiday season.

Storing and Reheating

While apple cider floats are best enjoyed fresh, there are a few ways to store components to enjoy later:

• Apple Cider: Keep your leftover apple cider refrigerated for up to 7 days. You can also freeze it in ice cube trays for a chilled drink on demand.
• Ice Cream: Leftover ice cream can be stored in your freezer for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure to cover the container tightly to prevent freezer burn.
• Caramel Sauce: If you have leftover caramel sauce, store it in a sealed jar or container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. You can reheat it in the microwave for a few seconds before drizzling.

Apple Cider Float Nutrition

While apple cider floats are a delightful treat, they’re definitely indulgent! Here’s a rough breakdown of the nutrition for one serving:

Nutrient	Amount (per serving)
Calories	300-400 calories
Carbohydrates	50g
Sugars	40g
Fat	10-15g
Protein	2-3g

Keep in mind that the calorie count will vary depending on the ice cream and caramel sauce you use, but it’s definitely worth the splurge for a seasonal treat!

Conclusion:

Apple cider floats are the perfect combination of fall flavors and a fun dessert drink. Whether you stick to the classic version or get creative with variations, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering. With just a few ingredients and a little creativity, you can create a treat that captures the essence of autumn and satisfies your sweet tooth.

So, next time you’re craving something sweet and festive, grab some apple cider, a scoop of ice cream, and make this amazing float. Your taste buds will thank you, and you’ll have the perfect fall drink to enjoy all season long!