Description
A refreshing and indulgent Apple Cider Float featuring creamy vanilla bean ice cream combined with cold apple cider, garnished with cinnamon sugar, apple slices, a cinnamon stick, and whole star anise for a delightful autumn-inspired treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Float Base
- 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 in a tall glass until it is about two-thirds full.
- Add Cider: Slowly pour the cold apple cider or sparkling apple cider over the ice cream, being careful with sparkling cider to control the bubbles.
- Garnish: Garnish the float by fanning thin red apple slices and securing them with a cocktail pick, then add a cinnamon stick, whole star anise, and sprinkle cinnamon sugar along the side and top of the glass.
- Serve: Serve the float immediately to enjoy the best texture and freshness.
Notes
- Do not store the float once assembled; serve immediately for best texture.
- You can prepare garnishes and chill the cider and glasses ahead of time but assemble the float only before serving.
- To create an apple fan, slice thin, even apple slices, stack them, fan out the top, and secure with a cocktail pick.
- Use longer cinnamon sticks for tall glasses and shorter sticks for smaller cups.
- Choose regular or sparkling cider depending on your preference; both work well.
- For an adult twist, add a splash of spiced rum, bourbon, or Fireball before pouring in the cider.
- Enhance the float with whipped cream, caramel drizzle, a pinch of nutmeg, or even a mini donut on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 float
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 30 g
- Sodium: 80 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
