Save This festive Cream Soda Spiced Apple Float with Cinnamon Rim brings together the comforting flavors of autumn in a refreshing dessert drink. The combination of creamy vanilla soda and spiced apple cider creates a nostalgic treat that's both sophisticated and playful, perfect for entertaining or treating yourself on a cozy evening.
I first created this recipe for a fall harvest gathering at our home, and it quickly became the most requested treat whenever friends visit during apple season. The combination of fizzy cream soda with warm spices never fails to delight guests of all ages.
Ingredients
- For the Cinnamon Rim: Granulated sugar provides the perfect sweet crunch and helps the cinnamon adhere to the glass
- Ground cinnamon: adds that classic fall flavor and beautiful color around the rim
- Lemon wedge: creates the moisture needed to make the sugar mixture stick to your glasses
- For the Float: Apple cider brings authentic orchard flavor use unfiltered for the richest taste
- Cream soda: provides the vanilla sweetness and essential fizz look for a quality brand with real vanilla
- Ground allspice: contributes complex warmth that enhances the apple flavor
- Ground nutmeg: adds a subtle aromatic note that complements the other spices
- Vanilla ice cream: creates the creamy foundation choose a premium brand for the best texture
- Whipped cream: optional adds an extra layer of indulgence and visual appeal
- Garnish: Cinnamon sticks serve as both flavorEnhancers and elegant stirrers
- Thin apple slices: provide a fresh element and visual cue to the drink's flavors
Instructions
- Prepare the Rimmed Glasses:
- Mix together the sugar and cinnamon in a shallow dish, ensuring they are thoroughly combined for consistent flavor. Run the lemon wedge carefully around the entire rim of each glass, making sure to moisten the edge completely. Immediately dip each glass into the cinnamon sugar mixture, rotating gently to create an even coating all the way around. Set aside to allow the rim to set slightly.
- Create the Spiced Apple Base:
- In a small bowl or pitcher, combine the chilled apple cider with the ground allspice and nutmeg. Stir vigorously for about 30 seconds to fully incorporate the spices and prevent any clumping. The mixture should appear uniform with the spices fully dissolved.
- Assemble the Base Layer:
- Place one generous scoop of vanilla ice cream into the bottom of each prepared glass. Use the back of your spoon to gently press the ice cream down slightly, creating a solid foundation for your float.
- Add the Spiced Cider:
- Slowly pour half of the spiced apple cider mixture over the ice cream in each glass. Pour along the side of the glass to minimize foam and preserve the rimmed edge. The cold cider will begin to slightly freeze against the ice cream, creating interesting texture.
- Introduce the Cream Soda:
- With a gentle hand, pour one cup of chilled cream soda into each glass at a slight angle. This technique allows the soda to cascade over the ice cream and cider mixture while creating that signature foamy top. Pause occasionally during pouring to allow the foam to settle.
- Finish with Garnishes:
- Top each float with a swirl of whipped cream if desired, keeping the design within the rim of the glass. Insert a cinnamon stick at an angle and balance a thin apple slice on the rim or float it on top of the whipped cream for a professional presentation.
Save The cream soda is truly the unsung hero of this recipe. While many people focus on the apple cider, I discovered that using a high quality vanilla cream soda makes all the difference. My family particularly loves when I find small batch craft cream sodas at our local farmers market to use in this recipe, as they tend to have more authentic vanilla flavor and less artificial sweetness.
Make Ahead Options
While this float is best assembled just before serving, you can prepare several components ahead of time to streamline the process. Rim the glasses up to 4 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator to keep them chilled. The spiced apple cider mixture can be prepared up to 24 hours ahead and kept refrigerated in a sealed container. For parties, consider setting up a float station with the prepared components so guests can assemble their own drinks, adding a fun interactive element to your gathering.
Seasonal Variations
Winter Holiday Version: Substitute cranberry juice for half of the apple cider. Add a dash of cloves to the spice mixture. Garnish with sugared cranberries instead of apple slices.
Summer Adaptation: Use peach nectar instead of apple cider. Replace allspice with a pinch of ginger. Garnish with fresh mint and peach slices.
Spring Celebration: Blend in 2 tablespoons of strawberry puree with the apple cider. Omit the nutmeg and add a drop of rosewater. Garnish with edible flowers and strawberry slices.
Pairing Suggestions
This float makes a delightful ending to a fall meal featuring roasted meats or hearty stews. The sweet and spiced flavors complement desserts like apple crisp or pumpkin pie without overwhelming them. For an afternoon treat, serve alongside butter cookies, gingersnaps, or cinnamon scones. The combination of textures creates a memorable dessert experience that feels both special and comforting.
Kid-Friendly Adjustments
Children absolutely love this recipe, but you may want to make a few adjustments for younger palates. Consider reducing the spices by half for kids who are sensitive to stronger flavors. Create a fun presentation by using colorful paper straws and perhaps adding a sprinkle of edible glitter to the rim mixture. For birthday parties or special occasions, substitute rainbow sprinkles for half of the sugar in the rim mixture for a festive touch that kids will adore.
Save These tips will help elevate your Cream Soda Spiced Apple Float from a simple drink to a truly memorable, festive treat. Enjoy the delightful flavors and cozy autumn vibes!
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I create the cinnamon-sugar rim?
Rub a lemon wedge around each glass rim, then dip into a cinnamon-sugar mix for an even coating.
- → Can I use a different soda than cream soda?
Yes, but cream soda’s vanilla flavor pairs best. Ginger ale or sparkling apple cider make good alternatives.
- → What’s the best way to keep the float creamy?
Use well-chilled ingredients and add the soda slowly over the ice cream to maintain a frothy, creamy texture.
- → Is there a vegan version of this float?
Use dairy-free vanilla ice cream and coconut whipped cream to create a vegan-friendly float.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
The rim and spiced cider can be prepped in advance, but assemble floats just before serving for best texture.