Description
A refreshing and indulgent Apple Cider Float combining creamy vanilla bean ice cream with crisp apple cider, garnished with cinnamon and star anise for a perfect fall treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup Vanilla Bean Ice Cream (8 ounces)
- 1 cup Cold Apple Cider or Sparkling Apple Cider
Garnishes
- Cinnamon Sugar (optional garnish)
- Red Apple Slices
- Cinnamon Stick
- Whole Star Anise
Instructions
- Prepare the Glass: Place the vanilla bean ice cream into a tall glass until it is about two-thirds full, creating a creamy base for the float.
- Add the Cider: Slowly pour the cold apple cider or sparkling apple cider over the ice cream, taking care if using sparkling cider to pour gently and watch the bubbles for an appealing fizz.
- Garnish: Decorate the float with a fan of thin red apple slices, a cinnamon stick, a whole star anise, and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar along the sides and top of the glass for aroma and visual appeal.
- Serve Immediately: Present the float right away to enjoy the perfect texture and combination of flavors while it's fresh.
Notes
- Do not store the float once assembled; serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
- Prepare garnishes and chill cider and glasses ahead of time to save prep time before serving.
- To create an apple fan, slice several thin, even apple slices, stack them, fan out the top slices, and secure them with a cocktail pick.
- Use appropriately sized cinnamon sticks based on the glass height—longer sticks for tall glasses and shorter ones for smaller cups.
- Choose regular or sparkling apple cider according to taste preference; sparkling cider adds bubbles while regular cider gives a smoother experience.
- For an adult version, add a splash of spiced rum, bourbon, or Fireball before pouring the cider.
- Optional toppings like whipped cream, caramel drizzle, nutmeg, or mini donuts can be added to enhance presentation and richness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 float
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 30 g
- Sodium: 85 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg
