As I watched the first flakes of snow drift down outside, I couldn’t help but feel a thrill of excitement for the holiday season ahead. One of my favorite ways to celebrate is by introducing new flavors into our family gatherings. Enter the Festive Peppermint Christmas Float—a sweet, creamy holiday drink that captures the very essence of winter cheer. This delightful concoction mixes vibrant peppermint flavor and a luxurious touch of ice cream, making it a guaranteed hit among kids and adults alike. Not only is it unbelievably easy to whip up, but it also adds a festive flair to any holiday gathering. Trust me, once you serve this float, everyone will come back for seconds—and possibly thirds! Curious to find out just how simple it is to make this deliciously refreshing treat? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is this float so special?

Vibrant flavors: The Festive Peppermint Christmas Float combines the refreshing taste of peppermint with rich ice cream, creating a captivating drink that stands out at any holiday gathering.
Crowd-pleaser: Its delightful appeal ensures that both kids and adults will be asking for more, making it a must-have at your celebrations.
Easy to prepare: With just a few ingredients, this float can be mixed up in no time, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the festivities.
Versatile variations: Easily swap out ingredients, such as using dairy-free ice cream or adding chocolate syrup for a twist, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a version that suits their taste.
Perfect for sharing: Serve it in a large punch bowl, encouraging guests to help themselves—ideal for festive gatherings, just like pairing it with delicious snacks, see Slow Cooker Cranberry or holiday pastries!

Festive Peppermint Christmas Float Ingredients

For the Drink

Soda or Juice – Use a clear soda like lemon-lime for a refreshing contrast to the creamy ice cream.
Ice Cream – Vanilla or peppermint ice cream adds richness; choose peppermint for a more intense flavor!

For the Topping

Crushed Peppermint Candy – Adds a festive crunch and delightful sweetness; feel free to mix in crushed chocolate candies for variety.
Whipped Cream – Whip up some light, airy cream for an extra layer of indulgence on top!

Gather these ingredients to create a sparkling and creamy masterpiece that embodies the joy of the season with your Festive Peppermint Christmas Float!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Festive Peppermint Christmas Float

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Begin by collecting all the necessary ingredients for your Festive Peppermint Christmas Float, including a clean punch bowl or large-serving beverage jar. Make sure you have clear soda or juice, your choice of ice cream, and crushed peppermint candy ready for assembly. This preparation sets the stage for a smooth and enjoyable mixing process.

Step 2: Mix the Base
Pour your chosen clear soda or juice into the punch bowl, filling it about three-quarters full. Using a large serving spoon, gently stir the mixture for about 30 seconds until well combined, ensuring the flavors are evenly blended without excessive carbonation. You’ll want to see a bubbly, inviting fizz as the base of your float.

Step 3: Serve into Glasses
Carefully ladle the mixed drink into individual serving glasses, leaving some space at the top for a creamy twist. Aim for a frothy layer approximately three-quarters full in each glass. As you pour, watch for the bubbles and enjoy the lively presentation as the Festive Peppermint Christmas Float starts to come together!

Step 4: Add the Ice Cream
Top each glass with a generous scoop of ice cream, letting it rest right at the surface of the drink. For a delightful touch, use either peppermint or vanilla ice cream, depending on your flavor preference. This addition creates a beautiful contrast against the fizzy drink while also bringing a creamy richness to each sip of your float.

Step 5: Garnish with Peppermint
Sprinkle crushed peppermint candy on top of the ice cream for that festive crunch, allowing it to cascade down into the drink. The vibrant red and white candy not only adds flavor but also decorates your float beautifully, instantly elevating its holiday appeal. This final touch makes your Festive Peppermint Christmas Float irresistibly inviting!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Present the drinks with a spoon and a straw for easy sipping and enjoyment! As your guests gather around, the enticing aroma and visual delight of the Festive Peppermint Christmas Float will surely spark joy and excitement at your holiday gathering. Encourage everyone to dig in and savor the sweet, creamy festivities together!

How to Store and Freeze Festive Peppermint Christmas Float

Best Served Fresh: Enjoy your Festive Peppermint Christmas Float immediately for the best flavor and texture. The fizzy components are at their peak when freshly mixed.

Fridge: If you have leftover drink mix (without ice cream), store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a gentle stir before serving again.

Freezer: To freeze the float, avoid adding ice cream. Instead, freeze the drink mix in ice cube trays for up to 1 month. Blend the frozen cubes with ice cream later for a quick treat!

Reheating: For the drink mix, there’s no need to reheat, as it’s best enjoyed cold. If you made the drink ahead of time, simply let the mix sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

Make Ahead Options

The Festive Peppermint Christmas Float is perfect for those busy holiday gatherings when time is of the essence! You can prepare the drink mixture (without ice cream) up to 24 hours in advance to save valuable time. Combine your chosen soda or juice in a punch bowl, stir well, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve. Just remember to keep the mixture tightly covered to maintain its fizz and prevent it from going flat. When it’s time to indulge, ladle the chilled drink into glasses and scoop in the ice cream right before serving. This ensures a frothy, delicious treat with minimal stress, bringing everyone together in a festive cheer!

Festive Peppermint Christmas Float Variations

Explore the endless ways you can put your personal touch on this delightful float!

Dairy-Free: Replace regular ice cream with coconut or almond-based alternatives for a vegan option that remains creamy.
Chocolate Peppermint: Incorporate chocolate syrup into the drink mix for a twist that’s rich and festive. The chocolate enhances the float’s flavor, making it even more indulgent!
Nutty Addition: Add a drizzle of hazelnut syrup to the mix for a warm, nutty flavor that brings extra depth to your float.
Fruit-Infused: Swap out clear soda for cranberry juice for a fruity kick. This boost of flavor pairs beautifully with the peppermint!
Spicy Heat: Add a hint of cayenne pepper or cinnamon for a spicy contrast. This surprising twist will keep your taste buds on their toes, combining sweet and spicy perfectly.
Extra Creamy: Use whipped cream as a topping alongside the ice cream for double the creaminess. This addition makes each sip feel like a dreamy dessert!
Minty Freshness: Enhance the peppermint flavor by muddling fresh mint leaves into the drink mix for a refreshing herbal twist.

For a little extra inspiration, consider pairing your float with holiday treats like delightful cookies or pastries, just like you would with a delicious Slow Cooker Cranberry dish! Each variation opens up a new way to celebrate the flavors of the season.

Expert Tips for Festive Peppermint Christmas Float

Serve Fresh: The float is best enjoyed immediately after preparation for optimal flavor and texture.
Mix Gently: Stir the soda or juice slowly to maintain carbonation. A vigorous mix can lead to overflow when adding ice cream.
Customize Flavors: Experiment with different ice cream flavors, such as chocolate or dairy-free options, to create a personalized version of your Festive Peppermint Christmas Float.
Check Portions: Be mindful of portion sizes to avoid excess sweetness. This way, everyone can enjoy more without feeling overwhelmed by sugar.
Garnish Creatively: Enhance presentation with whipped cream on top or by adding festive sprigs of mint for visual appeal and an aromatic finish.
Chill Ingredients: For an extra refreshing drink, chill your soda or juice beforehand. Enjoy the creamy, refreshing delight of this float!

What to Serve with Festive Peppermint Christmas Float

Delight in the festive experience this creamy drink brings, and elevate your holiday gatherings with perfect pairings.

Holiday Sugar Cookies: These sweet treats add a perfect crunch and buttery flavor, making them a delightful companion to the float. Their festive colors will brighten your table!
Chocolate Fudge Brownies: Rich and chewy, brownies provide a decadent contrast to the float’s bright peppermint taste. Every sip and bite together is a simple bliss.
Mini Cheesecakes: Light and creamy cheesecake bites complement the float beautifully, offering a savory counterpoint to the sweet drink. Guests will love alternating between the two!
Pecan Pie Bites: These tiny treats bring warmth and a nutty sweetness that pairs harmoniously with the float’s festive flavors, making each bite an indulgent joy.
Fruit Kabobs: A bright assortment of fresh fruits will add a refreshing, juicy element to your spread. The natural sweetness and colors visually enhance the holiday spirit.
Cranberry Punch: This light, fruity drink balances the richness of the float, giving guests a refreshing option with that seasonal zing. A sip of this between the creamy floats will refresh their palate.
Peppermint Bark: An even sweeter nod to the float, peppermint bark provides crunchy, chocolatey bliss that echoes the drink’s essence and makes for delightful dessert sharing!

Embrace the happy mingling of flavors and textures, and watch as guests savor each festive bite alongside their refreshing Festive Peppermint Christmas Float!

Festive Peppermint Christmas Float Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ingredients for the float?
Absolutely! When selecting your soda, go for a clear lemon-lime variety, as it offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy base. For the ice cream, vanilla or peppermint are both excellent choices; peppermint ice cream will give you a stronger mint flavor, while vanilla lends a more subtle one. Ensure your crushed peppermint candy is colorful and free of dark spots for that perfect festive touch!

How long can I store leftover drink mix?
Leftover drink mix (without ice cream) can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the float again, simply give it a gentle stir to reintroduce the carbonation before pouring it into glasses. However, I recommend mixing it up fresh for the best taste!

Can I freeze the Festive Peppermint Christmas Float?
Very! You can freeze the drink mix by pouring it into ice cube trays. This works best if you don’t add the ice cream yet. Freeze the cubes for up to 1 month. When you’re ready for a frosty treat, blend the frozen cubes with your choice of ice cream for a quick and delightful version of the float.

What are some common troubleshooting tips for my float?
If your float has overflowed during the mixing process, it’s likely due to stirring too vigorously or using highly carbonated soda. To avoid this, stir gently and only fill the punch bowl about three-quarters full. If you find your float too sweet, consider reducing the amount of ice cream or using a less sweet soda. Finally, if your peppermint candy becomes too soggy, sprinkle it on top just before serving for a delightful crunch!

Are there any dietary considerations for this float?
Absolutely! For those with allergies, always check that the ice cream and candy are free of allergens like nuts or gluten. If you’re preparing a version suitable for pets, keep in mind that chocolate or certain candies can be hazardous, so be sure to stick with pet-friendly alternatives. For a vegan version, you can swap the dairy ice cream for coconut or almond milk-based ice creams, and choose a soda without artificial sweeteners.

Can I prepare this float in advance?
While I highly recommend serving the Festive Peppermint Christmas Float immediately for the best experience, you can prepare the drink mix ahead of time (without ice cream) a few hours in advance. Just remember to store it in the fridge and give it a gentle stir before serving. This way, you can focus on enjoying your time with friends and family during the holiday festivities!