Strawberry Patch Ice Cream Soda Float Recipe
Float Perfection
I love experimenting with different fruits sometimes I’ll use blueberries or raspberries instead. If you want a smoother syrup just blend those macerated strawberries. And don’t be afraid to try different sodas orange soda makes an amazing variation!
Mix It Up
This float is so fun to customize! Try seasonal fruits like fresh peaches or cherries when they’re in season. For holidays I love adding themed garnishes like blue sugar crystals for the 4th of July. Sometimes I’ll even drizzle chocolate syrup on top for extra decadence.
Success Secrets
Here are my tried-and-true tips: Always chill your glasses in the freezer first it makes such a difference! Pour that soda super slowly to avoid overflow and make sure to use really good vanilla ice cream. And remember these are best enjoyed right away while everything’s perfectly fizzy and cold.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What’s the best type of vanilla ice cream to use?
- A homestyle vanilla ice cream works best as it has a richer texture and holds up better in the float. French vanilla or premium vanilla bean ice cream are excellent choices since they won’t dissolve too quickly in the soda.
- Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
- Yes, you can use thawed frozen strawberries, though fresh ones provide the best texture and flavor. If using frozen, let them thaw completely and drain excess liquid before macerating to avoid diluting the float.
- What other fruits work well in this float?
- You can substitute the strawberries with raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, or a mix of berries. Peaches and cherries also work well. Each fruit will create its own unique flavor profile with the vanilla ice cream and lime soda.
- Why do we macerate the strawberries?
- Macerating the strawberries with sugar helps release their natural juices and intensifies their flavor. This process creates a more flavorful syrup that better incorporates into the float instead of just having plain chopped strawberries.
- How can I make this float ahead of time?
- You can macerate the strawberries up to 2 hours in advance and keep them refrigerated. However, assemble the float just before serving to maintain the fizz from the soda and prevent the ice cream from melting too much.
