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This cozy apple cider float dessert is the perfect way to celebrate the flavors of fall in just a few minutes. Combining creamy vanilla bean ice cream with chilled apple cider creates a refreshing and indulgent treat that’s great for a casual evening or an autumn gathering.
I first shared this recipe with friends during a chilly October night and it quickly became a seasonal favorite because it feels both festive and comforting at once.
Ingredients
- Vanilla bean ice cream: choose one with real vanilla beans for the richest flavor and a lovely speckled look
- Apple cider or sparkling apple cider: opt for fresh, cold cider the sparkling variety adds a fun fizzy twist
- Red apple slices: use crisp apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp for a sweet crunch and nice contrast
- Cinnamon stick: adds a natural warm spice aroma for garnish
- Whole star anise: gives a subtle licorice note that complements the cider beautifully
- Cinnamon sugar: sprinkled on top to add extra sweetness and a touch of festive sparkle
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Add the Ice Cream:
- Scoop 240 milliliters of vanilla bean ice cream into a tall glass making sure it fills about two-thirds of the glass. This provides the creamy base of your float.
- Pour the Apple Cider:
- Slowly pour 240 milliliters of cold apple cider or sparkling apple cider over the ice cream. If you are using sparkling cider take your time pouring to minimize foaming and keep the float looking neat.
- Garnish Thoughtfully:
- Top the float with fresh red apple slices, a cinnamon stick, and a whole star anise. Finally, sprinkle cinnamon sugar over the glass and float to give it that finishing touch of flavor and sparkle.
- Enjoy Immediately:
- Serve once assembled to maintain the ice cream’s creamy texture and the fresh fizz of the cider.
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My favorite part is the contrast between the cool rich vanilla ice cream and the crispness of the apple cider with those aromatic spices. It reminds me of cozy autumn afternoons sipping warm drinks and enjoying the first cool breeze of the season.
Storage Tips
This dessert is best served immediately since the ice cream melts quickly with the cider. If you want to prepare ahead you can slice your apples and keep them refrigerated in an airtight container for a day. The ice cream and cider are best stored separately in the freezer and fridge respectively.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find vanilla bean ice cream regular vanilla or even caramel ice cream works well here. For a non-alcoholic twist try apple juice with a splash of club soda instead of sparkling cider. If you want to skip star anise, add a pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg to your cinnamon sugar.
Serving Suggestions
This float pairs wonderfully with simple baked goods like ginger snaps or snickerdoodle cookies to complement the spice notes. Serve it in clear glass mugs or tall glasses to show off the beautiful layers and garnishes.
Pro Tips
- Pour sparkling cider very slowly over the ice cream to control foaming and keep the float neat
- Use freshly sliced apples for the best crisp texture and visual appeal
- Toast whole spices lightly before garnishing if you want to boost their aroma even more
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of apple cider works best?
Both still and sparkling apple cider work well. Sparkling cider adds a bubbly texture but should be poured slowly to avoid overflow.
- → Can I use other ice cream flavors?
Vanilla bean highlights the spices best, but mild flavors like caramel or cinnamon could complement the cider nicely.
- → How do the cinnamon stick and star anise enhance the drink?
They infuse subtle warm and aromatic notes, elevating the cider’s natural sweetness and adding depth to the float.
- → Is this drink suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, using vegetarian-friendly ice cream and cider ensures this treat suits a vegetarian diet.
- → How soon should the float be served?
Serve immediately after assembly to enjoy the contrast of cold ice cream and chilled cider before melting occurs.