Description
A refreshing Apple Cider Float combining creamy vanilla bean ice cream with crisp apple cider, garnished with spices and apple slices for a delightful fall-inspired treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Float Base
- 1 cup vanilla bean ice cream (8 ounces)
- 1 cup cold apple cider or sparkling apple cider
Garnishes
- Cinnamon sugar (optional, for garnish)
- Red apple slices (for garnish)
- 1 cinnamon stick (for garnish)
- 1 whole star anise (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Glass: Place the vanilla bean ice cream into a tall glass, filling it about two-thirds full to create the base of your float.
- Add the Cider: Slowly pour the cold apple cider or sparkling apple cider over the ice cream, especially if using sparkling cider to control the bubbles and prevent overflow.
- Garnish the Float: Decorate the float with a fan of thin red apple slices, a cinnamon stick, a whole star anise, and sprinkle cinnamon sugar along the side of the glass and on top for an aromatic touch.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy the Apple Cider Float right away to experience the best texture and flavor combination.
Notes
- Do not store the float once assembled; serve immediately for the best texture and taste.
- You can prepare the garnishes and chill the cider and glasses ahead of time, but assemble the float just before serving.
- To create an apple fan garnish, slice several thin, even apple slices, stack them, fan out the top slice, and secure with a cocktail pick.
- Use longer cinnamon sticks for tall glasses and shorter ones for smaller cups to enhance presentation.
- Choose between regular or sparkling cider based on your preference; sparkling adds bubbles while regular cider is calmer.
- For an adult twist, add a splash of spiced rum, bourbon, or Fireball before pouring the cider.
- Consider dressing up the float with whipped cream, caramel drizzle, a pinch of nutmeg, or even a mini donut on top for extra indulgence.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 35 g
- Sodium: 80 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 52 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg
