Name: Creamy Peppermint Christmas Float to Brighten Your Holidays
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 1 teaspoon Peppermint Extract (Adjust to your preference); 4 cups Club Soda or Lemon-Lime Soda (Flavored soda can be used); 4 scoops Ice Cream (Vanilla or Peppermint) (For dairy-free options, use alternative ice cream); 1/2 cup Crushed Peppermint Candy (Chocolate shavings are an alternative)

The twinkling lights, the scent of pine, and the sound of laughter—there’s something truly magical about the holiday season. This year, I decided to bring a little extra joy to our festive gatherings with a deliciously creamy Peppermint Christmas Float. Not only is this drink a showstopper, but it also captures the spirit of the holidays with its delightful mix of peppermint and fizzy sweetness. What I love most about this float is how easy it is to whip up, making it the perfect treat for everyone, from little ones to grown-ups craving a nostalgic sweet fix. Imagine serving this at your next holiday party—guests will be singing your praises for such a delightful concoction! Ready to dive into a holiday classic with a refreshing twist? Let’s get started!

Why is this drink perfect for holidays?

Effortless Delight: This creamy Peppermint Christmas Float is a breeze to make, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying festivities.

Festive Flavors: The combo of refreshing peppermint and rich ice cream brings a merry twist to your seasonal gatherings.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether at a family reunion or cocktail party, this drink is sure to impress both kids and adults alike!

Versatile Options: Easily customized, you can switch ice cream flavors or use dairy-free alternatives to cater to everyone’s preferences.

Picture-Perfect Presentation: With a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candy as a garnish, you’ll have a stunning centerpiece that everyone will want to share on social media!

Looking for more festive ideas? Check out our Cheesy Christmas Tree for a savory complement to your festive table!

Peppermint Christmas Float Ingredients

For the Drink

Peppermint Extract – Essential for that refreshing minty flavor; adjust to your preference for a milder taste.
Club Soda or Lemon-Lime Soda – Provides the fizzy base for the float; try using flavored soda for a unique twist.
Ice Cream (Vanilla or Peppermint) – Gives creaminess and sweetness; substitute with dairy-free ice cream for lactose-free options.

For the Garnish

Crushed Peppermint Candy – Adds a crunchy texture and festive flair; chocolate shavings are a delightful alternative if desired.

Enjoy creating this festive Peppermint Christmas Float and let its beautiful presentation and delicious taste brighten your holiday gatherings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peppermint Christmas Float

Step 1: Prepare Serving Vessel
Begin by selecting a large, clean punch bowl or beverage jar that can hold at least 8 cups of liquid. This is where your festive Peppermint Christmas Float will come together. Make sure it’s dry and free from any leftover flavors to enhance the final taste. Set the vessel on a stable surface, ready for mixing.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Pour 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract and 4 cups of club soda or lemon-lime soda into the punch bowl. Stir gently for about 30 seconds, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Watch as the soda fizzes, creating an inviting and refreshing base that captures the spirit of the holidays perfectly.

Step 3: Serve
Once mixed, grab your serving glasses and pour the fizzy drink into each glass, filling them about three-quarters full. This will give your Peppermint Christmas Float the ideal amount of space for the ice cream and garnish. Aim for a clear view of the lovely bubbles and colors as you pour to entice your guests further.

Step 4: Garnish
Top each glass with a generous scoop of vanilla or peppermint ice cream, allowing it to slightly float on the fizzy drink. Sprinkle crushed peppermint candy over the ice cream, creating a delightful crunch and a pop of color. This beautiful presentation will bring smiles and excitement to your holiday gathering, setting the festive mood.

Step 5: Enjoy
Serve your Peppermint Christmas Float immediately with a straw and a long spoon, so everyone can enjoy the creamy ice cream and fizzy soda together. Encourage your guests to mix the layers for a truly indulgent experience. The combination of minty freshness and sweet creaminess is sure to be a hit at your holiday celebrations!

Peppermint Christmas Float Variations

Get ready to personalize your Peppermint Christmas Float with these delightful twists that bring even more festive joy!

Flavor Swap: Try mint chocolate chip ice cream for a richer flavor. It adds a delicious chocolatey twist to your float!
Fruit Infusion: Add a splash of cranberry juice for a fruity zing. The tartness of cranberries complements the mint beautifully, creating a unique holiday drink.
Spicy Kick: Include a sprinkle of cinnamon for a warm, spicy note. This unexpected addition brings a cozy warmth that makes your float even more inviting.
Fizzy Alternatives: Substitute plain soda with flavored sparkling water like pomegranate or gingerale for a lighter, zestier drink. The effervescence will still be there, but with a refreshing twist.
Dairy-Free Bliss: Use coconut or almond milk-based ice cream for a dairy-free version that everyone can enjoy. It gives your float a creamy texture while catering to those with dietary restrictions.
Holiday Garnish: Top with whipped cream and festive sprinkles instead of crushed peppermint candy. This adds a whimsical flair that kids and adults will love alike.
Adult Version: Add a splash of peppermint schnapps for an adult twist. This elevates your float into a fun holiday cocktail for gatherings with friends.

For more festive ideas to complement your holiday spread, don’t miss our delicious Deviled Egg Christmas or the charming Berry Mini Christmas Cakes.

What to Serve with Festive Peppermint Christmas Float

The holiday season is all about creating memorable moments, and this delightful float pairs beautifully with a range of festive treats.

Chocolate Chip Cookies: Soft and warm, their sweet richness complements the peppermint chill and adds a cozy touch to your gathering.
Gingerbread Men: These spiced cookies offer a delightful contrast to the creamy float, bringing a traditional holiday flavor that everyone loves.
Fruit Platter: A colorful array of fresh fruits brightens the table and provides a refreshing balance to the sweetness of the Peppermint Christmas Float.
Hot Chocolate Bar: Enhance your party’s beverage selection! A hot chocolate bar paired with whipped cream and toppings invites guests to indulge in another beloved winter treat.
Mini Cheesecake Bites: Their creamy texture echoes the float while the various toppings can add a festive flair to the dessert table.
Eggnog: A classic holiday drink, it harmonizes beautifully with the flavors of peppermint, making it an ideal festive pairing for an adults-only option.

These delightful accompaniments will elevate your Peppermint Christmas Float experience, bringing smiles and warmth to your holiday celebrations!

Expert Tips for the Best Peppermint Christmas Float

Ingredient Quality: Use fresh club soda or lemon-lime soda to ensure vibrant fizz and flavor in your Peppermint Christmas Float. Stale soda can ruin the effervescence.
Mint Adjustments: If you’re unsure about the strength, start with a smaller amount of peppermint extract and taste before adding more. This avoids overpowering the drink.
Ice Cream Choices: For the best texture, let your ice cream soften slightly before adding it to the float. This ensures it merges beautifully with the soda.
Garnish Smartly: Crush your peppermint candy just before serving; this keeps it crunchy and adds a festive, eye-catching touch!
Serving Tips: To keep your float from getting too watery, avoid letting it sit for too long before serving. Enjoy it fresh for an effervescent treat!

How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Christmas Float

Fridge: Store any leftover mixed drink (without ice cream) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Add ice cream just before serving for optimal texture.

Freezer: If you want to make a batch ahead of time, freeze the ice cream separately in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing the soda, as it will lose its fizz.

Reheating: Since this drink is best served cold and fizzy, there’s no need to reheat. Just prepare as needed to enjoy the refreshing contrast of ice cream and soda!

Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the peppermint drink mixture in advance, but wait to add the ice cream until you’re ready to serve, ensuring the perfect creamy Peppermint Christmas Float!

Make Ahead Options

Crafting your Peppermint Christmas Float in advance can save precious time during those bustling holiday gatherings! You can prepare the drink mixture (peppermint extract and soda) up to 24 hours ahead by combining them in your punch bowl and storing it in the refrigerator. This ensures that all the flavors meld beautifully, making for a refreshing base when you’re ready to serve. To maintain the perfect texture and fizz, wait to add the ice cream and crushed peppermint candy until just before serving. When the moment arrives, simply pour the mixed drink into glasses, top with ice cream, and garnish for a festive touch that will delight your guests!

Peppermint Christmas Float Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right peppermint extract?
Absolutely! When selecting peppermint extract, look for pure extracts rather than imitation ones, as they’ll provide a richer, more authentic flavor. Ensure it’s high-quality by checking the ingredient list—ideally, it should contain only peppermint oil and alcohol. If you’re unsure about the strength, start with a little (around ½ teaspoon) and taste before adding more to avoid overpowering your drink.

How should I store leftover Peppermint Christmas Float?
Very good question! Store any leftover mixed drink (without ice cream) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. This helps maintain its fizzy freshness. Make sure to add the ice cream just before serving to keep that creamy texture intact. If you anticipate leftovers, it’s best to prepare the mixture ahead of time, but remember to hold off on adding the ice cream until you’re ready to enjoy!

Can I freeze the Peppermint Christmas Float?
Definitely! If you want to make a batch ahead of time, freeze the ice cream separately in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Just avoid freezing the soda, as it will lose its lovely fizz when thawed. When you’re ready to serve, simply mix the fresh soda with the previously frozen ice cream for the ideal texture—just remember to keep it cold!

What if my drink loses its fizz?
If your Peppermint Christmas Float starts to lose its fizz, here’s a helpful tip: opt for fresh, carbonated soda each time you prepare the float. Stale soda can detract from the drink’s refreshing qualities. If you notice your soda is flat, it might be time for a fresh bottle, which will enhance the effervescence and overall experience!

Is this recipe suitable for those with dairy allergies?
Absolutely! You can cater this Peppermint Christmas Float to dairy allergies by using non-dairy ice cream alternatives. Look for coconut, almond, or cashew-based ice cream, which makes for a deliciously creamy base without the dairy. Just be mindful of the soda as well, ensuring all ingredients are free from cross-contamination if you’re serving an allergic individual.

What’s the best way to ensure I get the right texture for the ice cream?
To achieve that creamy delight, let your ice cream soften slightly at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes before adding it to your float. This allows it to blend beautifully with the fizzy soda, creating a luscious texture. If it’s too hard, it won’t integrate well, leaving you with large chunks instead of a delightful creamy swirl. Enjoy experimenting!