Picture this: It’s a cozy evening, and you’re hosting a dinner party or celebrating a special moment. The food’s been a hit, but now it’s time for dessert.
Instead of the usual cake or pie, you glide into the room carrying a tray of glasses filled with a fizzy, frosty, and delightfully fruity treat—the Raspberry Sorbet Champagne Float.
Cheers erupt, cameras flash, and you’re suddenly the star of the night. That’s the magic of this cocktail-dessert hybrid.
What makes it so special? It’s light yet indulgent, effortlessly chic, and ridiculously easy to make. Perfect for New Year’s Eve toasts, Valentine’s Day dates, or just a fancy night in when you need to feel like the main character.
With the combination of tart raspberry sorbet and bubbly champagne, this recipe hits the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and celebratory.
Let’s dive in!
In this post, you'll find...
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pint raspberry sorbet
- 1 bottle chilled champagne (or prosecco for a sweeter option)
- Fresh raspberries (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
Ingredient Breakdown
- Raspberry Sorbet
This is the heart of your float! The tartness of raspberry sorbet complements the crisp bubbles of champagne. Go for a high-quality brand, or better yet, make your own if you’re feeling adventurous. The creamier the sorbet, the better it holds up to the fizz. - Champagne
This is where the magic happens! The dry notes of champagne balance the sweetness of the sorbet, creating a sophisticated flavor profile. For a sweeter take, try prosecco or even sparkling rosé. If you’re avoiding alcohol, sparkling cider or soda works beautifully. - Fresh Raspberries
These little jewels add a pop of color and a fresh burst of flavor. Plus, they make your float look Instagram-worthy. You don’t have to include them, but why wouldn’t you? - Fresh Mint Leaves
Mint leaves bring a bright, aromatic finish to each sip. It’s a small addition with a big visual and flavor impact. Pro tip: give the mint a gentle smack between your hands before garnishing to release its oils.
How to Make a Raspberry Sorbet Champagne Float
This recipe is as simple as it is impressive. Follow these steps for a foolproof float:
Step 1: Chill Everything
Before you even think about serving, make sure your champagne is ice cold. A warm bottle will fizz over and melt the sorbet too quickly. Pop it in the fridge at least a few hours in advance. Bonus points if you chill your glasses too!
Step 2: Scoop the Sorbet
Grab a sturdy ice cream scoop and add 1–2 small scoops of raspberry sorbet to each glass. The goal is to leave room for the champagne, so don’t go overboard. A coupe glass, champagne flute, or even a fancy dessert glass works well.
Pro Tip: If the sorbet is too hard to scoop, let it sit on the counter for 5–10 minutes. You want it firm, not rock-solid.
Step 3: Pour the Champagne
This is where the magic happens. Slowly pour the chilled champagne over the sorbet. Pouring too fast might result in a bubbly overflow (cute, but messy). Aim for about 1/2 cup per glass or enough to fill it without spilling.
Helpful Hint: Hold the glass at a slight angle while pouring to minimize foam.
Step 4: Garnish Like a Pro
Top each float with a couple of fresh raspberries and a sprig of mint. If you’re feeling extra fancy, you can add edible glitter or a sugared rim to your glasses.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
This cocktail-dessert hybrid is best enjoyed fresh. The sorbet will slowly melt into the champagne, creating a delightful, fizzy slush. Encourage your guests to grab a spoon and a straw for the full experience!
Tips for the Perfect Float
- Experiment with flavors: Swap raspberry sorbet for other fruit sorbets like mango, lemon, or blackberry. Each one brings a unique twist.
- Make it non-alcoholic: Use sparkling lemonade, soda, or even ginger ale instead of champagne for a kid-friendly version.
- Jazz it up: A splash of Chambord or raspberry liqueur can take this float to the next level.
- Pair with snacks: Serve alongside chocolate truffles, macarons, or a light cheese board for a stunning dessert spread.
Raspberry Sorbet Champagne Float Recipe
Raspberry Sorbet Champagne Float
Ingredients
- 1 pint raspberry sorbet
- 1 bottle chilled champagne or prosecco
- Fresh raspberries optional, for garnish
- Fresh mint leaves optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Ensure your champagne is ice cold before starting. Chill your serving glasses for an extra frosty touch.
- Add 1–2 small scoops of raspberry sorbet to each glass. Use a coupe, champagne flute, or dessert glass.
- Slowly pour chilled champagne over the sorbet. Fill the glass about three-quarters full to avoid spillage.
- Top with a few fresh raspberries and a sprig of mint for an elegant finish. Smack the mint gently between your hands before garnishing to release its aroma.
- Enjoy your float with a spoon and a straw, savoring the delightful mix of bubbly fizz and fruity sorbet.
Notes
- Experiment with other sorbet flavors like mango or lemon for a fun twist.
- Swap champagne with sparkling lemonade or soda for a non-alcoholic version.
- Pair with light desserts or chocolates for a perfect finish to your event.
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!