Picture this: It’s a warm evening, you’re relaxing on the porch, and you’re craving something sweet, fizzy, and just a little indulgent.
Enter the Spiced Rum Root Beer Float—a delightful mashup of creamy ice cream, the fizzy comfort of root beer, and a spicy kick of rum.
It’s like your favorite childhood treat put on its big-kid pants and went to a summer soirée.
I love this cocktail-dessert hybrid because it’s effortless yet impressive. It’s perfect for casual gatherings, a movie night with friends, or even a whimsical dessert at your next dinner party. Plus, it’s versatile—switch up the ice cream or try different root beers to make it uniquely yours.
Ready to dive into the fizzy fun? Let’s get mixing!
In this post, you'll find...
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 scoops of vanilla ice cream (about 1 cup)
- 6 oz root beer (chilled)
- 1.5 oz spiced rum
- Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
- Ground cinnamon or nutmeg (optional, for garnish)
- A tall glass or mug
Ingredient Breakdown
Vanilla Ice Cream
Go for a high-quality vanilla ice cream—something rich and creamy to complement the bold flavors of the spiced rum. French vanilla or even vanilla bean works beautifully for added depth. If you’re feeling adventurous, swap it for caramel or cinnamon ice cream for a fun twist!
Root Beer
Not all root beers are created equal. Opt for a craft root beer with robust, natural flavors. Brands like A&W, Barq’s, or Virgil’s are great choices. Avoid diet root beer for this one—it just doesn’t have the same creamy mouthfeel.
Spiced Rum
Spiced rum is the star of the show here. Its warm notes of cinnamon, clove, and vanilla add complexity to the float. Brands like Captain Morgan, Kraken, or Sailor Jerry are popular picks, but feel free to use your favorite. If you’re not into spiced rum, dark rum makes a smooth substitute.
Whipped Cream
This one’s optional, but a dollop of whipped cream on top adds a festive flair and an extra layer of creaminess. Use canned whipped cream for convenience or make your own for a more luxurious finish.
Ground Cinnamon or Nutmeg
A light sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top of the whipped cream elevates the presentation and adds a hint of spice that ties the whole drink together.
How to Make a Spiced Rum Root Beer Float
Step 1: Chill Everything
Start by making sure your root beer is ice-cold. A warm soda will melt the ice cream too quickly, leaving you with a sad puddle instead of a frothy masterpiece.
If you have time, chill your glass in the freezer for about 10 minutes for an extra touch of coolness.
Step 2: Add the Ice Cream
Scoop two generous dollops of vanilla ice cream into your chilled glass. The ice cream is the creamy base of this float, so don’t skimp! Gently press it down if needed to make room for the root beer and rum.
Step 3: Pour in the Spiced Rum
Slowly pour 1.5 oz of spiced rum over the ice cream.
Use a jigger or measuring cup to get the perfect amount. If you add too little, the rum flavor won’t shine. Too much, and it’ll overpower the other ingredients.
Step 4: Add the Root Beer
This part is where the magic happens! Tilt the glass slightly and pour the root beer slowly down the side. This technique helps preserve the carbonation and prevents an overflow of foam. Watch as the bubbles rise and the ice cream floats to the top—it’s oddly satisfying.
Step 5: Top It Off
If you’re feeling fancy, add a swirl of whipped cream on top of your float. Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a touch of spice and visual appeal.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Grab a long spoon and a straw (or just dive straight in with a spoon if you’re impatient). Sip, scoop, and savor the blend of creamy ice cream, fizzy root beer, and warm spiced rum. It’s dessert and a drink in one delightful glass.
Tips for the Perfect Spiced Rum Root Beer Float
- Go Slow with the Pour
Pouring the root beer too quickly can cause a foam explosion. Take your time and enjoy the process. It’s all part of the fun! - Experiment with Flavors
Switch things up with flavored rums like coconut or vanilla, or try different ice cream flavors such as chocolate, caramel, or even coffee. - Use the Right Glass
A tall, narrow glass works best for this recipe. It keeps the ingredients layered and makes it easier to enjoy the float without spilling. - Batch It for Parties
Hosting a gathering? Pre-scoop the ice cream into glasses and keep them in the freezer. When guests arrive, simply add the root beer and rum for a quick yet impressive treat.
Spiced Rum Root Beer Float Recipe
Spiced Rum Root Beer Float
Ingredients
- 2 scoops of vanilla ice cream about 1 cup
- 6 oz root beer chilled
- 1.5 oz spiced rum
- Whipped cream optional, for topping
- Ground cinnamon or nutmeg optional, for garnish
- A tall glass or mug
Instructions
- Ensure your root beer is well-chilled, and for an extra frosty touch, place your glass in the freezer for 5-10 minutes.
- Add two generous scoops of vanilla ice cream to your chilled glass. Press lightly to make room for the liquid if necessary.
- Slowly pour 1.5 oz of spiced rum over the ice cream. Measure it carefully to balance the flavors.
- Tilt the glass slightly and slowly pour in the root beer along the side to reduce foam overflow. Watch as the bubbles rise and mix with the ice cream for that perfect frothy top.
- Optional but recommended: Add a dollop of whipped cream on top and sprinkle with ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a decorative and flavorful touch.
- Grab a straw and a spoon, and enjoy the blend of creamy, fizzy, and spiced flavors!
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Hi, I’m Tiana – founder of and author here at Where Tiana Travels. I’m a 20-something with a love for all things travel, photography, and food. I have been living abroad for the past 5 years and solo traveling the globe in my free time. I created this blog to share my travel stories and inspire other women to go out and see the world. Read more about me here!