Festive Peppermint Christmas Float

Name: Festive Peppermint Christmas Float
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: PT-489762H24M48S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons milk; 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract; 1 pound (15 oz) vanilla ice cream; 1.5 liters 7 Up

Published: October 10, 2025

by Victoria

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes just 5 minutes, making it a stress-free addition to your holiday menu.
Delicious Flavor Combos: The blend of vanilla ice cream and peppermint creates a unique taste that everyone will love.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it at Christmas parties, New Year’s Eve gatherings, or as a fun dessert for any occasion.
Kid-Friendly Delight: This float is a hit with kids, ensuring smiles all around during festive celebrations.
Eye-Catching Presentation: The colorful layers make this drink not only tasty but also visually appealing.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Festive Peppermint Christmas Float, you will need some simple tools. Having the right equipment will ensure that your preparation is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Ice cream scoop
Measuring spoons
Mixing spoon
Tall glasses

Importance of Each Tool

Ice cream scoop: This tool helps you serve ice cream quickly and neatly, ensuring perfect portions every time.
Tall glasses: Using tall glasses enhances the visual appeal of your float while allowing room for layers of ice cream and soda.

Ingredients

For the Float Base

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

Gather all your ingredients on the counter. Ensure that your ice cream is slightly softened for easier scooping.

Step 2: Mix Milk and Peppermint Extract

In a small bowl, combine the milk and peppermint extract. Stir well until fully mixed.

Step 3: Layer Ice Cream in Glasses

Using an ice cream scoop, add generous scoops of vanilla ice cream into each tall glass. Aim for about two scoops per glass for a rich float experience.

Step 4: Add Peppermint Mixture

Pour the milk and peppermint mixture over the scoops of ice cream in each glass. This adds flavor and creates a creamy texture.

Step 5: Top with Soda

Slowly pour 7 up into each glass over the ice cream mixture. Watch as it bubbles up beautifully!

Step 6: Serve Immediately

Garnish with extra mint leaves or crushed candy canes if desired. Serve your Festive Peppermint Christmas Float immediately for maximum fizz!

Enjoy this cheerful drink with friends and family during your holiday festivities!

How to Serve Festive Peppermint Christmas Float

Serving your Festive Peppermint Christmas Float is a delightful experience that adds joy to any holiday gathering. This refreshing drink is perfect for sharing with family and friends during the festive season.

Creative Glassware

Use tall glasses for a classic look that showcases the layers.
Consider mason jars for a rustic touch, adding charm to your table.

Garnish Ideas

Top with whipped cream for extra creaminess.
Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies for a festive crunch.

Flavor Variations

Add a splash of chocolate syrup for a minty chocolate twist.
Mix in some fruit puree like raspberry or strawberry for added sweetness and color.

Fun Straws

Use colorful striped straws to make sipping more fun.
Try metallic or themed straws to match your holiday decor.

How to Perfect Festive Peppermint Christmas Float

To ensure your Festive Peppermint Christmas Float turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

Chill your glasses: Place glasses in the freezer for 10-15 minutes before serving to keep drinks extra cold.
Use fresh ingredients: Always opt for fresh peppermint extract and high-quality ice cream for the best flavor.
Layer carefully: Pour ingredients slowly to create beautiful layers and avoid mixing too much.
Customize sweetness: Adjust the amount of peppermint extract based on your taste preferences, especially if you prefer less minty flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Festive Peppermint Christmas Float

Pairing side dishes with your Festive Peppermint Christmas Float enhances the joyful atmosphere. Here are some delightful options:

Christmas Sugar Cookies: Soft and sweet, these cookies add a festive touch and can be decorated in holiday colors.
Peppermint Bark Brownies: Rich brownies topped with peppermint bark offer a decadent bite that complements the drink perfectly.
Mini Spinach Quiches: Savory quiches provide a delightful contrast to the sweet float, making them an excellent appetizer choice.
Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses paired with crackers provides a savory option to balance the sweetness of the float.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate between sips of your float, offering bright flavors.
Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: Sweet and salty, these treats are easy to make and pair well with the festive drink.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Festive Peppermint Christmas Float, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few tips to help you avoid them:

Skipping the peppermint extract: This ingredient is key for flavor. Make sure to measure it carefully for the best taste.
Using flat soda: Ensure your 7 Up is fresh and fizzy. Flat soda won’t provide the bubbly effect that makes this float special.
Overmixing ingredients: Stir gently to combine. Overmixing can lead to a soupy texture instead of a delightful float.
Choosing the wrong ice cream: Stick with vanilla ice cream for the classic taste. Other flavors may overpower the peppermint.
Not garnishing appropriately: Don’t forget to add festive toppings like crushed candy canes or whipped cream for an appealing presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
It’s best consumed within 1 day for optimal freshness.

Freezing Festive Peppermint Christmas Float

Do not freeze this float as it will lose its texture and fizz.
If you have leftover ice cream, you can store that separately in the freezer.

Reheating Festive Peppermint Christmas Float

Oven: Not recommended for this drink.
Microwave: Avoid using a microwave as it will melt the ice cream too quickly.
Stovetop: Not suitable; enjoy this beverage cold.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making a Festive Peppermint Christmas Float:

How can I customize my Festive Peppermint Christmas Float?

You can add chocolate syrup or use flavored soda like cream soda for a unique twist.

Can I make this float ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients ahead and mix them just before serving.

What other toppings work well with this float?

Consider adding mini marshmallows, whipped cream, or crushed cookies for extra texture and flavor.

Is there a non-dairy option for this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute dairy-free ice cream and use non-dairy milk if needed.

Final Thoughts

The Festive Peppermint Christmas Float is a delightful treat that brings holiday cheer. Its refreshing minty flavor combined with creamy vanilla ice cream makes it perfect for gatherings. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or flavors to suit your taste. Enjoy making this festive drink!

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