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Festive Peppermint Christmas Float

Name: Festive Peppermint Christmas Float
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 – 2 quarts high-quality Vanilla Ice Cream; 1.5 liters Lemon-Lime Soda (chilled); 6-8 Peppermint Candy Canes (for syrup infusion & garnish); 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream (cold); 2 tablespoons Powdered Sugar; ½ – 1 teaspoon Pure Peppermint Extract (for syrup); ¼ teaspoon Pure Peppermint Extract (for whipped cream); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (for syrup); 1 cup Water (for syrup); Red Food Coloring (optional); 6 Fresh Mint Sprigs (for garnish); Optional garnishes: Mini candy canes, chocolate shavings, chocolate syrup, maraschino cherries

The holiday season is a wonderful time filled with cheer, vibrant decorations, and the warmth of sharing delightful treats with those we love. Among the array of festive foods and drinks, the Festive Peppermint Christmas Float emerges as a star. This whimsical drink combines the frosty richness of vanilla ice cream, the effervescence of lemon-lime soda, and the enticing flavors of peppermint, creating a delightful experience that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply seeking to indulge in a seasonal treat, this float is sure to elicit smiles and warm memories.

Why Make This Recipe

A delightful combination of flavors that celebrates the essence of the holiday season.
Easy to prepare, making it perfect for both seasoned chefs and kitchen novices.
A visually stunning centerpiece for your holiday gatherings that will wow your guests.

When you serve a Festive Peppermint Christmas Float, you’re not just offering a drink; you’re providing an experience that captures the joy and magic of Christmas.

Easy Method for Festive Peppermint Christmas Float

Creating this luscious holiday float is straightforward and enjoyable. Steps are provided in a way that makes it simple to follow, even amidst the flurry of holiday preparations. Plus, there is room for creativity, so you can personalize it to match your festivities. Let’s dive in!

Ingredients

To whip up this enchanting peppermint float, you will need the following ingredients:

1.5 – 2 quarts high-quality Vanilla Ice Cream
1.5 liters Lemon-Lime Soda (chilled)
6-8 Peppermint Candy Canes (for syrup infusion & garnish)
1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream (cold)
2 tablespoons Powdered Sugar
½ – 1 teaspoon Pure Peppermint Extract (for syrup)
¼ teaspoon Pure Peppermint Extract (for whipped cream)
1 cup Granulated Sugar (for syrup)
1 cup Water (for syrup)
Red Food Coloring (optional)
6 Fresh Mint Sprigs (for garnish)
Optional garnishes: Mini candy canes, chocolate shavings, chocolate syrup, maraschino cherries

Directions

Now that we have everything we need, let’s break down the steps to create the Festive Peppermint Christmas Float.

Prepare Homemade Peppermint Syrup (Optional but Recommended)
In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup granulated sugar and 1 cup water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar completely dissolves. (Optional: Add 2-3 crushed candy canes to the warm syrup off the heat and stir until dissolved for extra flavor.) Remove from heat and allow the syrup to cool completely to room temperature. Once cool, stir in ½ teaspoon of pure peppermint extract, tasting and adding more in ⅛ teaspoon increments until desired intensity is reached. For festive color, add 1-2 drops of red food coloring. Store in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks.

Crush Candy Canes for Garnish
Place 3-4 peppermint candy canes in a sturdy zip-top bag. Seal the bag and use a rolling pin or meat tenderizer to crush them into small shards and fine dust. Set aside for garnishing.

Make Fresh Peppermint Whipped Cream
Chill your mixing bowl and whisk attachment/beaters in the freezer for 10-15 minutes. Pour 1 cup of cold heavy whipping cream into the chilled bowl. Whip on medium-high speed until soft peaks form (approximately 2-3 minutes). Gradually add 2 tablespoons powdered sugar and ¼ teaspoon pure peppermint extract. Continue whipping until stiff peaks form, ensuring not to over-whip. (Optional: Add 1 drop of red food coloring during the last minute of whipping for a pink hue.) Transfer to a piping bag or prepare a spoon for dolloping.

Chill Serving Glasses
Place your tall, clear serving glasses in the freezer for at least 15-20 minutes to ensure an ultimate frosty experience and maintain the ice cream’s texture longer.

Assemble the Float
(Optional: For extra sparkle, moisten the rim of a chilled glass with a little water or peppermint syrup, then dip gently into crushed candy canes.) Using an ice cream scoop (dipped in hot water for perfect spheres), place 2-3 generous scoops of premium vanilla ice cream into each chilled glass. Drizzle 1-2 tablespoons of your homemade peppermint syrup (or store-bought) over the ice cream. Hold the glass at a slight angle and slowly pour the chilled lemon-lime soda down the side, filling almost to the top while managing the fizz.

Garnish and Serve
Crown each float with a generous swirl or dollop of the peppermint whipped cream. Immediately sprinkle crushed peppermint candy canes over the whipped cream. Tuck a fresh mint sprig into the cream. For extra festive touches, add a mini candy cane hooked over the rim, sprinkle chocolate shavings, or even a maraschino cherry. Serve immediately with a long spoon and festive straw for enjoyment.

Storage Tips for Festive Peppermint Christmas Float

To keep your Festive Peppermint Christmas Float fresh and delightful, follow these guidelines:

Refrigerate leftover peppermint syrup: Store in an airtight container for up to 2-3 weeks at 40°F.
Keep whipped cream refrigerated: Use within 2-3 days for optimal taste and texture.
Do not freeze the assembled float as the ice cream will become too hard and lose its creamy texture. They are best enjoyed immediately after preparation.
Freeze homemade peppermint syrup for longer term storage: Transfer into an ice cube tray and freeze individual portions for later use.

Serving Suggestions for Festive Peppermint Christmas Float

This charming float is not only about flavor; it’s also about presentation. Here are a few serving suggestions that can enhance your holiday gathering:

Create a float station: Set up a fun float station where guests can assemble their own. Provide different flavors of ice cream, such as chocolate or mint, alongside additional toppings like crushed Oreos or fresh berries.
Pair with holiday cookies: Serve with gingerbread cookies, peppermint bark, or sugar cookies for an enticing dessert platter.
Make mini floats: Use smaller glasses for mini floats, making them perfect for dessert tables or as a light refreshment during a larger meal.
Garnish alternatives: Experiment with various garnishes such as crushed nuts or toasted coconut for added texture and flavor.

Tips to Make Festive Peppermint Christmas Float

Use high-quality ingredients: Opt for premium vanilla ice cream and fresh peppermint for an elevated flavor experience.
Chill your soda: Ensure your lemon-lime soda is well chilled for that delightful fizz when poured.
Customize flavors: Feel free to swap vanilla ice cream for a creamy chocolate or mint chip to change things up.
Follow proper ratios: Be careful not to over-pour the soda to maintain the float’s aesthetics and prevent overflowing.

Variations or Substitutions

If you wish to add a personal touch to your Festive Peppermint Christmas Float, consider these variations:

Chocolate Peppermint Float: Substitute vanilla ice cream with peppermint chocolate ice cream and use dark chocolate syrup for drizzling on top.
Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk or almond milk ice cream as a base for a vegan-friendly variation that captures all the festive flavors without dairy.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: While you can prepare the peppermint syrup and whipped cream in advance, it’s best to assemble the float just before serving to keep the ice cream from melting and the soda from going flat.

Q: What can I use instead of peppermint extract?
A: If peppermint extract is unavailable, try using vanilla extract with a splash of mint-flavored liqueur for a sophisticated twist.

Q: Should I use regular soda or diet?
A: Both will work well, but regular lemon-lime soda is recommended for the best flavor and fizz. If you’re watching calories, feel free to use diet versions.

Q: How do I keep the whipped cream from deflating?
A: Ensure that your cream is cold when whipping, and consume it within a couple of days. Adding the powdered sugar stabilizes it, making it hold its shape longer.

As you prepare to dazzle your family and friends with this delightful, festive treat, allow the Festive Peppermint Christmas Float to bring joy and cheer to your holiday celebrations. With its creamy texture, refreshing taste, and vibrant presentation, it promises to become a cherished seasonal favorite. Enjoy each sip and spoonful, letting the flavors transport you to a winter wonderland filled with holiday magic!