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Homemade Berry Vanilla Ice Cream Float photo

Berry Vanilla Ice Cream Float

This Berry Vanilla Ice Cream Float is pure joy! A refreshing mix of berry syrup, fizzy soda, and creamy vanilla ice cream.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream (see notes for dairy-free substitute)
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 2 cups homemade berry syrup (or use store-bought - see notes below)
  • 6 cups soda water or seltzer
  • 1 scoop vanilla ice cream (see notes for dairy substitute)
  • to taste fresh berries (for garnish)

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk or electric mixer
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Large glass or float glasses
  • Strainer

Method
 

Build Berry Vanilla Ice Cream Float Step by Step
  1. Step 1: Make the Berry Syrup - In a saucepan, combine 2 cups of fresh or frozen berries (like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries) with 2 tablespoons of sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the berries break down and release their juices, about 5-7 minutes. If you prefer a smoother syrup, strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer to remove seeds.
  2. Step 2: Whip the Cream - In a mixing bowl, pour in 1 cup of heavy whipping cream and add 2 tablespoons of sugar. Using a whisk or electric mixer, whip the cream until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip, as you want a light and fluffy texture.
  3. Step 3: Prepare the Glasses - Gather your glasses and add a generous amount of the homemade berry syrup to the bottom of each glass.
  4. Step 4: Add Soda - Slowly pour 1 cup of soda water or seltzer into each glass over the berry syrup. The fizz will create a beautiful swirl.
  5. Step 5: Add Vanilla Ice Cream - Carefully add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of the fizzy mixture.
  6. Step 6: Top with Whipped Cream - Using a spoon, add a dollop of whipped cream on top of the ice cream.
  7. Step 7: Garnish and Serve - Finish off your Berry Vanilla Ice Cream Float with a handful of fresh berries for garnish. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy whipping cream with coconut cream.
  • Use dairy-free vanilla ice cream made from almond milk or coconut milk.
  • This float is best enjoyed fresh; make the berry syrup ahead of time to save on prep.