Festive Peppermint Christmas Float

The Festive Peppermint Christmas Float is the perfect holiday drink to brighten up your celebrations. This delightful beverage combines creamy vanilla ice cream with refreshing peppermint flavor, topped off with fizzy soda. It’s not only simple to make but also a fun treat for gatherings, family celebrations, or cozy nights at home. With its vibrant colors and festive flair, this float is sure to impress guests of all ages.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 5 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for last-minute holiday gatherings.
• Refreshing Flavor: The combination of peppermint extract and fizzy soda creates a delightful taste that captures the essence of the holidays.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this festive drink, bringing joy to any occasion.
• Versatile Serving: Enjoy it at parties, family dinners, or as a special treat during the holiday season.
• Customizable: Feel free to adapt this recipe by adding your favorite toppings or garnishes!

Tools and Preparation

To create your Festive Peppermint Christmas Float, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation smooth and easy.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Spoon or spatula
• Serving glasses

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A good mixing bowl allows you to easily combine ingredients without spills.
• Spoon or spatula: Helps in blending the ice cream and milk smoothly for a perfect texture.
• Serving glasses: Clear glasses showcase the beautiful layers of your float, enhancing the visual appeal.

Ingredients

For the Float Base

• 3 tablespoons milk
• 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1 pound vanilla ice cream (15 oz)

For the Fizz

• 1.5 liters 7 Up

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: 5 minutes

How to Make Festive Peppermint Christmas Float

Step 1: Prepare the Base

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. 3 tablespoons milk
2. 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract

Mix well until blended.

Step 2: Add Ice Cream

Scoop in:
1. 1 pound vanilla ice cream (15 oz)

Gently fold in the milk mixture until everything is combined.

Step 3: Serve with Fizz

1. Divide the ice cream mixture among serving glasses.
2. Carefully pour 1.5 liters of 7 Up over each glass until filled.

Step 4: Enjoy!

Serve immediately while bubbly and enjoy this deliciously festive drink with friends and family!

How to Serve Festive Peppermint Christmas Float

Serving your Festive Peppermint Christmas Float is all about presentation and festive flair. This delightful drink is perfect for holiday gatherings and can be served in a variety of ways to impress your guests.

In Individual Glasses

• Use clear glasses to showcase the beautiful layers of the float.
• Add a sprinkle of crushed peppermint on top for an extra festive touch.

With Whipped Topping

• Top each glass with a dollop of whipped cream for creaminess.
• Drizzle some chocolate syrup over the whipped cream for added flavor.

Garnished with Peppermint Sticks

• Use peppermint sticks as stirrers for an eye-catching presentation.
• Guests can enjoy the added minty flavor as they sip their floats.

Served at a Holiday Party

• Create a self-serve station where guests can make their own floats.
• Provide a variety of toppings like chocolate chips or sprinkles for customization.

How to Perfect Festive Peppermint Christmas Float

Making the perfect Festive Peppermint Christmas Float requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your drink is a hit:

• Chill Your Ingredients – Ensure that the 7 Up is well chilled before mixing to keep your float refreshing.
• Use Quality Ice Cream – Opt for high-quality vanilla ice cream for a rich, creamy texture that complements the peppermint flavor.
• Mix Slowly – Pouring gently helps maintain the fizzy bubbles from the soda, giving you that classic float experience.
• Experiment with Flavors – Feel free to add different extracts, like vanilla or almond, for a unique twist.
• Serve Immediately – Enjoy your float right after making it to prevent the ice cream from melting too quickly.

Best Side Dishes for Festive Peppermint Christmas Float

Pairing side dishes with your Festive Peppermint Christmas Float can enhance your holiday experience. Here are some delicious options:

1. Peppermint Bark – A sweet treat made with layers of dark and white chocolate topped with crushed peppermint.
2. Christmas Sugar Cookies – Soft, buttery cookies decorated with festive icing and sprinkles.
3. Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels – Salty pretzels coated in chocolate, offering a perfect balance of flavors.
4. Fruit Salad Cups – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits, adding a healthy option alongside sweets.
5. Mini Cheesecakes – Bite-sized cheesecakes topped with fruit or chocolate, providing creamy goodness in every bite.
6. Cheese Platter – An assortment of cheeses paired with crackers and fruits, ideal for snacking while enjoying drinks.

These sides complement your Festive Peppermint Christmas Float, creating a delightful holiday spread that everyone will love!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Festive Peppermint Christmas Float, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Using too much peppermint extract – It’s easy to overdo it with peppermint extract. Stick to the recommended amount for the best flavor balance.
• Skipping the milk – The milk helps blend the flavors and create a creamier texture. Don’t skip this crucial ingredient!
• Using non-vanilla ice cream – Vanilla ice cream is essential for the classic taste of this float. Avoid using other flavors that can overpower the peppermint.
• Forgetting to chill your glasses – Chilling your serving glasses can enhance the experience by keeping your float colder for longer. Take a moment to chill them before serving.
• Serving without garnish – Adding festive garnishes like crushed peppermint or whipped cream elevates your float. Don’t forget this fun touch!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover Festive Peppermint Christmas Float in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 1 day in the refrigerator.

Freezing Festive Peppermint Christmas Float

• Freezing is not recommended as it may alter the texture of the ice cream and soda mixture.

Reheating Festive Peppermint Christmas Float

• Oven – Not applicable; this recipe is served cold and should not be heated.
• Microwave – Not suitable; reheating in the microwave will melt the ice cream completely.
• Stovetop – Not applicable; enjoy this float cold for the best results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Festive Peppermint Christmas Float:

How can I customize my Festive Peppermint Christmas Float?

You can customize your float by adding different toppings like chocolate shavings, crushed cookies, or even a drizzle of chocolate syrup for added sweetness.

Can I make a non-dairy version of this float?

Absolutely! Use non-dairy ice cream and almond or coconut milk as substitutes to create a delicious non-dairy version of the Festive Peppermint Christmas Float.

What type of ice cream works best?

Vanilla ice cream is ideal, but you can experiment with other flavors like chocolate or mint for a unique twist on your Festive Peppermint Christmas Float.

Is it possible to make this float ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare each component ahead and assemble just before serving for optimal texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

The Festive Peppermint Christmas Float is a delightful treat that brings joy to any holiday gathering. Its creamy texture paired with refreshing peppermint makes it a festive favorite. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite toppings or alternative flavors. Enjoy creating this sweet holiday tradition!