The Festive Peppermint Christmas Float is your go-to holiday treat that combines bubbly refreshment with the creamy goodness of ice cream. Perfect for family gatherings or festive parties, this drink brings a sweet and minty twist to your celebrations. Its vibrant appearance and delightful flavor make it a standout choice for anyone looking to spread holiday cheer.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just five minutes of prep time, you can whip up this festive drink in no time.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of vanilla ice cream and peppermint extract creates a refreshing and indulgent taste.
- Versatile Serving Option: Perfect for holiday parties, cozy nights in, or as a special treat for kids.
- Eye-Catching Presentation: The float’s colorful layers and frothy top are sure to impress guests.
- Customizable: Feel free to add toppings like whipped cream or crushed candy canes for an extra festive touch.
Tools and Preparation
Before you get started, gather the essential tools needed to create your Festive Peppermint Christmas Float. Having everything on hand will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Blender
- Large serving glasses
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Blender: Helps mix ingredients thoroughly for a smooth texture.
- Large serving glasses: Showcase the beautiful layers of your float.
- Measuring spoons: Ensure precise ingredient amounts for consistent flavor.
- Mixing spoon: Aids in combining ingredients seamlessly.
Ingredients
For the Float
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 pound vanilla ice cream (15 oz)
- 1.5 liters 7 up
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Festive Peppermint Christmas Float
Step 1: Prepare the Base
First, in a blender, combine the milk and peppermint extract. Blend until mixed well.
Step 2: Add Ice Cream
Next, add the vanilla ice cream into the blender. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Assemble the Float
In large serving glasses, pour the blended mixture halfway up each glass. Slowly top with 7 Up to create a frothy effect.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Finally, sprinkle finely chopped parsley on top for garnish if using. Serve immediately with straws or spoons for stirring! Enjoy your Festive Peppermint Christmas Float!
How to Serve Festive Peppermint Christmas Float
Serving your Festive Peppermint Christmas Float is a delightful experience that adds cheer to any holiday gathering. This drink is perfect for holiday parties and family celebrations, making it a showstopper at your table.
Fun Glassware Ideas
- Mason Jars: Serve the float in mason jars for a rustic touch. They are easy to hold and add charm to your holiday spread.
- Clear Plastic Cups: For larger gatherings, clear cups allow guests to see the festive layers of the float while being practical for outdoor events.
Garnish Suggestions
- Crushed Candy Canes: Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top for a sweet crunch and extra peppermint flavor.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream makes the float extra indulgent and visually appealing.
Creative Straws
- Striped Straws: Use red and white striped straws to match the festive theme. They add a fun visual element to each serving.
- Reusable Silicone Straws: Eco-friendly options help reduce waste while still looking stylish.
How to Perfect Festive Peppermint Christmas Float
To make the best Festive Peppermint Christmas Float, follow these simple tips that elevate your drink’s flavor and presentation.
- Chill Your Ingredients: Ensure your 7 Up and ice cream are well chilled before mixing. This keeps the float refreshing and prevents it from melting too quickly.
- Adjust Peppermint Flavor: Start with less peppermint extract, then gradually add more if you prefer a stronger mint flavor. This way, you can customize it to your taste.
- Layer Ingredients Carefully: Pour 7 Up slowly over the ice cream to create beautiful layers. This enhances both presentation and texture.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy your float right after preparing it. This guarantees the best texture, as the ice cream will begin to melt quickly in the soda.
Best Side Dishes for Festive Peppermint Christmas Float
Pairing side dishes with your Festive Peppermint Christmas Float can enhance your holiday feast. Consider these delicious options that complement this sweet treat perfectly.
- Christmas Cookies: Classic sugar cookies decorated with icing bring joy to any celebration.
- Mini Quiches: These savory bites offer variety and balance out the sweetness of the float.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses with crackers provides a savory contrast, enhancing your drink experience.
- Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds brightness and healthiness to your meal, making it refreshing alongside the float.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: These rich, savory bites are perfect finger food that pairs well with festive drinks.
- Roasted Vegetables: Sweet roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts bring an earthy element that complements the overall menu beautifully.
- Pigs in a Blanket: A fun appetizer that everyone loves; they are easy to grab while enjoying drinks!
- Cranberry Sauce Bites: Small pastries filled with cranberry sauce add a sweet-tart flavor that ties back into holiday themes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Festive Peppermint Christmas Float can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Ignoring the measurements: Use the correct amounts of milk and peppermint extract for the best flavor. Too much peppermint can overpower the float.
- Using flat soda: Always use fresh, carbonated 7 Up. Flat soda will ruin the fizzy texture that makes this drink special.
- Overmixing ingredients: Combine your ingredients gently to maintain the soft texture of the ice cream. Stirring too vigorously can lead to a soupy drink.
- Skipping garnishes: Don’t forget to add festive toppings like crushed candy canes or whipped cream. They enhance both presentation and flavor.
- Not chilling serving glasses: Chilling your glasses before pouring makes a refreshing difference. Warm glasses can melt the ice cream faster.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Duration: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Containers: Use an airtight container to keep flavors intact.
Freezing Festive Peppermint Christmas Float
- Duration: You can freeze it for up to 1 month, but expect a change in texture.
- Containers: Freeze in a sealed container, leaving some space for expansion.
Reheating Festive Peppermint Christmas Float
- Oven: This drink is not suitable for reheating in an oven as it will lose its fizz and ice cream texture.
- Microwave: Avoid using a microwave; it will melt the ice cream too quickly and ruin the float.
- Stovetop: Do not reheat it on the stovetop. It’s best enjoyed cold and frosty.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Festive Peppermint Christmas Float?
A Festive Peppermint Christmas Float is a delightful holiday beverage made with vanilla ice cream, peppermint extract, and carbonated soda. It’s perfect for celebrating the season!
How do I customize my Festive Peppermint Christmas Float?
You can customize your float by adding toppings like whipped cream, chocolate syrup, or additional crushed candy canes. Feel free to experiment with different sodas too!
Can I make this drink ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare all ingredients in advance but combine them right before serving for maximum fizz and freshness.
Is there a non-dairy version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute dairy ice cream with coconut or almond milk-based ice creams to create a non-dairy version of your Festive Peppermint Christmas Float.
Final Thoughts
The Festive Peppermint Christmas Float is a fun and delicious way to celebrate the holidays. Its combination of creamy vanilla ice cream and refreshing peppermint makes it versatile enough for any gathering. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or variations! Try it out this season—you won’t be disappointed!
Festive Peppermint Christmas Float
The Festive Peppermint Christmas Float is the ultimate holiday indulgence, combining the refreshing sparkle of soda with the creamy richness of vanilla ice cream and a delightful hint of peppermint. This vibrant drink is not only quick to prepare but also visually stunning, making it the perfect addition to any holiday gathering or family celebration. With its festive layers and customizable toppings, it’s sure to impress guests and bring cheer to your festivities. Whether you serve it in mason jars or clear cups, each sip will evoke the joy of the season, making it a memorable treat for both kids and adults alike.
- Total Time: 47 minute
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 pound vanilla ice cream (15 oz)
- 1.5 liters 7 Up
- Optional: 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a blender, combine milk and peppermint extract; blend until smooth.
- Add vanilla ice cream to the blender; blend until creamy.
- In large serving glasses, fill halfway with the blended mixture.
- Slowly top with 7 Up to achieve a frothy effect.
- Garnish with finely chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 47g
- Sodium: 130mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: For stronger peppermint flavor, start with less extract and adjust to taste. Chill your ingredients beforehand for optimal freshness. Customize with toppings like crushed candy canes or whipped cream for extra flair.
