Cookies Fluff float made with Breyers Cookies & Cream and A&W® Root Beer.

Easy Ice Cream Floats for Every Flavor Mood

What is it about an ice cream float that’s so timeless? Maybe it’s the nostalgic fizz when soda touches ice cream, or the way that creamy foam bubbles over the rim. Maybe it’s that first sweet sip that feels so refreshing. Whatever the reason, one thing’s for sure: they’re one of the most iconic summer beverages around.

The exact origin of the ice cream float is a little fuzzy (some say it was invented by accident in the late 1800s) but it’s been a summertime staple for a long time.

And when it comes to ice cream floats, one reigns supreme: the root beer float. It even has its own holiday — National Root Beer Float Day on August 6, if you're wondering! But whether you're celebrating with the original or mixing up something new, there's no wrong way to enjoy a float. From classic pairings to fresh twists, we've got ideas to match whatever mood you're in.

While the classic combo of vanilla ice cream and root beer is still a fan favorite, floats are endlessly customizable. You can mix and match sodas and ice cream flavors to suit your mood: go citrusy, chocolatey, or anywhere in between. There’s really no wrong way to float.

Breyers & A&W® Team Up for Back-To-School Float Fun

Although National Root Beer Float Day is celebrated on August 6th, the fun doesn’t stop there, because we’re teaming up with A&W® and 7UP® for a sweet Back-to-School celebration from August 7th to September 11th!

Keep an eye out for specially marked packaging on A&W® and 7UP® products that feature opportunities to win exciting prizes and fun float ideas the whole family can try. Grab a spoon, a can of A&W® or 7UP® Root Beer , your favorite Breyers ice cream, and get ready to make end-of-summer memories one fizzy, creamy float at a time. Share your favorite float creations using a virtual float crafter at floatintofamilyfun.com. Plus… you could instantly win family night prizes too!

5 Ice Cream Float Recipes You Can Make Year-Round

Ready to mix things up? With just a scoop of Breyers and your favorite fizzy pairing, these easy floats are as fun to make as they are to sip.

Low carb float made with Breyers CarbSmart Vanilla and A&W® Zero Sugar Root Beer.

1. Low Carb Root Beer Float

You really can’t go wrong with this one. To make a low carb version of a classic root beer float, drop two generous scoops of Breyers CarbSmart™ Vanilla into a tall glass and slowly pour A&W® Zero Sugar Root Beer on top. Watch that creamy foam rise, then dive in with a straw and a spoon.

Hosting a gathering? Try these Root Beer Float Shooters for a party-ready twist on the classic.

Ultimate float made with Breyers Vanilla, Chocolate, Strawberry and A&W® Ice Cream Sundae Soda.

2. Ultimate Float

Take a sip down memory lane with this nostalgic twist on a classic. Start with a scoop (or three) of Breyers Vanilla Chocolate Strawberry, then pour over A&W® Ice Cream Sundae soda for a fizzy, creamy mix of all your favorite flavors. Colorful sprinkles on top are optional (but highly recommended).

Shirley Temple float made with Breyers Natural Vanilla and 7UP®.

3. Shirley Temple Float

What’s better than a tall glass of cherry soda on a hot day? A cherry soda float made with Breyers, of course. To make it, pour some grenadine into a glass, top with 7UP® soda, give it a quick stir, then add a scoop of Breyers Natural Vanilla ice cream on top. Finish with a maraschino cherry for a touch of nostalgia.

4. Cookie Fluff Float

Cookies and cream fans, this one’s for you. Start by pouring some A&W® Root Beer into a chilled glass, then add a generous scoop of Breyers Cookies & Cream. The fizzy vanilla-caramel notes pair perfectly with chocolatey cookie chunks. Garnish with a toasted marshmallow on a stick to make it campfire-inspired. It’s rich, nostalgic, and made for summer nights (or anytime, really).

Whether you’re making a classic root beer float, exploring flavors like matcha vanilla, or crafting your own fizzy creation, one thing’s certain — ice cream floats bring pure joy in a glass. So grab your favorite Breyers flavor, pop open a soda, and savor every sip!

FAQs

When is National Root Beer Float Day?

National Root Beer Float Day is celebrated every year on August 6th. It’s the perfect excuse to enjoy a classic root beer float.

What is the best ice cream to use for a float?

Classic root beer floats are traditionally made with vanilla ice cream, and Breyers’ vanilla collection is the perfect match for this treat. But floats are super versatile, so feel free to get creative: Chocolate, Natural Strawberry, or even Cookies & Cream can add a fun twist to the classic combo.

How do I keep my float from overflowing?

To prevent a foamy overflow, pour the soda slowly down the side of the glass after adding your ice cream. Alternatively, start with the soda first, then gently spoon in the ice cream to better control the fizz and keep your float perfectly chilled.

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough

CarbSmart™ Chocolate

S'mores Bar

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