This classic American treat gets a grown-up twist: a creamy root beer float spiked with rum horchata for a subtle cinnamon‑vanilla kick.
Root beer floats are the ultimate nostalgic dessert drink — simple, comforting, and perfect for hot afternoons, backyard barbecues, or any time you want a taste of childhood with an adult-friendly twist.
Table of Contents
- A classic root beer float with a fun twist
- Root Beer Float with Rum Horchata Recipe
- Ingredients for this boozy root beer float
- How to make a perfect root beer float
- How to serve an adult root beer float
- Frequently Asked Questions
- More Drink Recipes
- Latest Recipes
A classic root beer float with a fun twist
Root beer stands out for its smooth, slightly spicy flavor profile — buttery notes with hints of clove, cinnamon, ginger and sassafras depending on the brand. To celebrate National Root Beer Float Day I wanted something a little different, so I added horchata for extra creaminess and warming cinnamon notes.
Horchata is a Latin rice milk flavored with cinnamon and vanilla. Many stores carry non‑alcoholic horchata, but I found a rum‑spiked version that blends beautifully with vanilla ice cream and root beer. The cinnamon and vanilla soften the rum’s edge, creating a dangerously drinkable dessert.
If you prefer a nonalcoholic version, substitute regular horchata. For the adult version, add a shot of rum horchata, scoop in ice cream, and top with chilled root beer for an updated take on the old‑fashioned float.
Root Beer Float with Rum Horchata
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 oz rum horchata
- 1 scoop vanilla ice cream
- 1 glass root beer
Instructions
- Pour: Add a shot (about 1 1/2 oz) of rum horchata to a tall glass.
- Scoop: Add one or two scoops of vanilla ice cream, depending on the glass size.
- Serve: Slowly pour chilled root beer over the ice cream to fill the glass. Serve immediately with a straw or long spoon.
Notes
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 41g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 7g
Sugar: 39g
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
Ingredients for this boozy root beer float
- Rum horchata. Often available at well‑stocked liquor stores; adds cinnamon and vanilla notes plus a gentle rum warmth.
- Vanilla ice cream. Classic vanilla or vanilla bean works best for a creamy base.
- Root beer. Use your favorite brand — the flavor profile of the soda shapes the final float.
Substitutions: Use regular horchata for a nonalcoholic float. For a stronger cocktail, try hard root beer or increase the rum horchata slightly.
See the recipe card above for exact servings and nutrition details.
How to make a perfect root beer float
- POUR: Add a shot of rum horchata (about 1 1/2 ounces) into a tall chilled glass.
- SCOOP: Add scoops of vanilla ice cream, leaving space for foam.
- SERVE: Slowly pour chilled root beer over the ice cream to control foaming. Serve with a straw or long spoon.
✔️ PRO TIP
Chill your glasses in the freezer for a few minutes or rinse them with ice before assembling. Cold glass slows melting and keeps the float frosty longer.
How to serve an adult root beer float
Serve root beer floats immediately after assembling so the texture is light and creamy. Pour the root beer slowly to manage foaming and avoid overflow. If you can’t finish the bottle, bring the remaining root beer to the table so guests can top off their floats as the foam settles.
For a retro soda-shop finish, add whipped cream, a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce, and a maraschino cherry on top.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. This format works with many sodas. Try orange soda for a creamsicle float, or substitute cherry cola or Dr. Pepper for a different flavor profile.
Vanilla is classic, but you can experiment. Chocolate ice cream creates a rich “black cow” variation, while coffee or caramel ice cream will add depth.
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