What the heck is this?
This is like drinking an autumn hug. Think rich apple cider, creamy vanilla ice cream, and buttery caramel sauce coming together in one frothy, dreamy float. It’s sweet, cozy, fizzy, and a tiny bit extra — aka perfect. You can make it kid-friendly or add a splash of booze for a grown-up twist. Either way, it’s ridiculously easy and seriously delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s basically dessert and a drink in one. No baking required (praise). Ready in like 3 minutes. Big fall vibes with minimal effort. You can make it fancy or keep it chill. Works for parties, movie nights, or when you just need a little happy.
The Stuff You’ll Need
Main Players:
1 cup chilled apple cider
1 scoop vanilla ice cream (or two, we’re not judging)
2–3 tbsp caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Splash of sparkling water or ginger ale (optional for fizz)
Optional Extras:
Whipped cream (yes please)
Cinnamon or apple pie spice
Thin apple slices for garnish
A cinnamon stick (for stirring + looking cute)
Shot of spiced rum or bourbon (if you’re feelin’ festive)
Let’s Float
1. Drizzle & Scoop
Drizzle some caramel sauce around the inside of your glass for that extra wow. Drop in your scoop(s) of ice cream.
2. Pour It On
Slowly pour in the chilled apple cider. Add a splash of sparkling water or ginger ale if you like it bubbly.
3. Top It Off
Add whipped cream, more caramel, and a dusting of cinnamon if you’re feelin’ fancy.
4. Garnish & Serve
Toss on an apple slice, pop in a cinnamon stick, and sip it like you’re in a Hallmark movie.
Switch It Up
Pumpkin Spice Float: Add a dash of pumpkin spice to the caramel before pouring.
Caramel Pear Float: Sub apple cider with pear nectar for a twist.
Spiked Version: Add 1 oz of spiced rum, bourbon, or Fireball whiskey.
Ice Cream Remix: Try cinnamon or butter pecan instead of vanilla.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with warm apple pie for ultimate fall bliss. Make a float bar at your next gathering. Sip one while wearing fuzzy socks and a flannel. Trust the vibe.
Questions People Actually Ask
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: It’s best made fresh so the ice cream stays floaty and dreamy. But you can pre-chill your glasses and cider!
Q: Can I use warm cider?
A: You can, but it melts the ice cream super fast — more of a warm dessert soup vibe. Still tasty, just different.
Q: Can I make it vegan?
A: Totally! Use dairy-free vanilla ice cream and a vegan caramel sauce.
Q: What if I don’t like it too sweet?
A: Use less caramel and balance with sparkling water to cut the richness.
Caramel Apple Cider Float: Fall in a Cup (with Ice Cream)
- Total Time: 3 minutes
- Yield: 1 float
Description
This is like drinking an autumn hug. Think rich apple cider, creamy vanilla ice cream, and buttery caramel sauce coming together in one frothy, dreamy float. It’s sweet, cozy, fizzy, and a tiny bit extra — aka perfect. You can make it kid-friendly or add a splash of booze for a grown-up twist. Either way, it’s ridiculously easy and seriously delicious.
Ingredients
Main Players:
1 cup chilled apple cider
1 scoop vanilla ice cream (or two, we’re not judging)
2–3 tbsp caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Splash of sparkling water or ginger ale (optional for fizz)
Optional Extras:
Whipped cream (yes please)
Cinnamon or apple pie spice
Thin apple slices for garnish
A cinnamon stick (for stirring + looking cute)
Shot of spiced rum or bourbon (if you’re feelin’ festive)
Instructions
1. Drizzle & Scoop
Drizzle some caramel sauce around the inside of your glass for that extra wow. Drop in your scoop(s) of ice cream.
2. Pour It On
Slowly pour in the chilled apple cider. Add a splash of sparkling water or ginger ale if you like it bubbly.
3. Top It Off
Add whipped cream, more caramel, and a dusting of cinnamon if you’re feelin’ fancy.
4. Garnish & Serve
Toss on an apple slice, pop in a cinnamon stick, and sip it like you’re in a Hallmark movie.
Switch It Up
Pumpkin Spice Float: Add a dash of pumpkin spice to the caramel before pouring.
Caramel Pear Float: Sub apple cider with pear nectar for a twist.
Spiked Version: Add 1 oz of spiced rum, bourbon, or Fireball whiskey.
Ice Cream Remix: Try cinnamon or butter pecan instead of vanilla.
Notes
Serve with warm apple pie for ultimate fall bliss. Make a float bar at your next gathering. Sip one while wearing fuzzy socks and a flannel. Trust the vibe.
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: ~270 kcal
- Protein: ~2g