Root Beer Float's Boozy Cousin: Alcoholic Drink Twists

Root beer floats are a classic dessert, but what happens when you add a splash of something stronger? There are many ways to make an alcoholic root beer float, or boozy float, and most involve adding a shot of vodka, rum, or Kahlua to the traditional root beer and ice cream combination. For a more indulgent version, you can add whipped cream, chocolate syrup, or even swap out the root beer for hard root beer. If you're looking for a fun twist on a classic, an alcoholic root beer float is a great option—just remember to drink responsibly!

Vodka variations

Vanilla Vodka

Vanilla vodka is a popular choice for an alcoholic root beer float. Its smooth and clean taste pairs well with the root beer and ice cream. One recommended brand is Smirnoff.

Whipped Cream-Flavored Vodka

For an extra creamy kick, whipped cream-flavoured vodka is another option. This variation can enhance the dessert-like quality of the drink.

Root Beer Schnapps

For an even stronger root beer flavour, you can replace the vanilla vodka with root beer schnapps. This will give your float an extra boozy boost.

Plain Vodka

If you don't have access to vanilla vodka, plain vodka is a suitable alternative. Its lack of a strong flavour means it won't overpower the other ingredients.

Other Variations

While vodka is a popular choice, you can also experiment with other alcoholic beverages. Some options include dark rum, Bailey's, Kahlua, whipped cream liqueur, or even a hard root beer. These alternatives will each bring their unique flavour profiles to the float, allowing you to customise your drink to your taste preferences.

Kahlua combinations

Kahlua is a versatile liqueur that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways and combinations. Here are some ideas for creating delicious drinks with Kahlua:

Kahlua Root Beer Float

A fun and indulgent twist on the classic root beer float, the Kahlua Root Beer Float is a perfect treat for adults. This drink typically includes vanilla ice cream, root beer, and Kahlua. For an extra touch of decadence, add a drizzle of chocolate syrup and top it off with maraschino cherries. To make it, pour frozen root beer into a tall glass, add a scoop or two of vanilla ice cream, chocolate syrup, and start with half a shot of Kahlua. You can adjust the amount of Kahlua to your taste preferences.

Kahlua and Vodka

For a simple yet effective cocktail, combine Kahlua with vodka. This combination is a great base for creating a variety of drinks. You can add cream and Coke for a "Root Beer Float (Adult Drink)" or mix it with half-and-half, root beer, ice cream, and cherries for a "Russian Root Beer Float". Adjust the measurements according to your desired strength and sweetness.

Kahlua and Irish Cream

For a creamy and indulgent cocktail, pair Kahlua with Irish cream liqueur. This combination is used in the "IRISH CREAM ROOT BEER FLOAT", which includes caramel ice cream and root beer. The sweetness of the Irish cream complements the coffee and vanilla notes of the Kahlua.

Kahlua and Chocolate

Kahlua blends exceptionally well with chocolate, enhancing the richness of both flavours. Try the "Chocolate Root Beer Float", which includes chocolate syrup, vanilla vodka, root beer, and chocolate ice cream. Alternatively, dip the rim of your glass in sweetened condensed milk and then in chocolate sprinkles for a fun and tasty garnish to your "Kahlua French Vanilla Root Beer Float".

Kahlua and Rum

Kahlua also pairs well with rum, adding a depth of flavour to your cocktails. The "Grown-Up Root Beer Float" combines vanilla ice cream, rum, and root beer for a boozy twist on the classic float. For a more complex cocktail, try the "RumChata Root Beer Float", which includes horchata and vanilla ice cream.

Baileys blends

The Classic Baileys Float

As with any root beer float, the key ingredients are root beer and ice cream. For a boozy float, simply add Baileys Irish Cream. For a stronger kick, you can also add a shot of vanilla vodka.

The Creamy Float

For a creamier, richer float, swap out the root beer for hard root beer. You can also add a dash of whipped cream and a cherry on top for extra indulgence.

The Boozy Float

If you're looking for an extra boozy kick, try adding a splash of Kahlua or whipped cream-flavoured vodka to your float. This variation amps up the alcohol content and adds a unique flavour twist.

The Customisable Float

The beauty of a Baileys float is that it can be customised to your taste preferences. Experiment with different types of ice cream, such as butter pecan, chocolate, or cherry. You can even swap out the root beer entirely and use your favourite soda, like Coke, Pepsi, orange soda, or cream soda.

The Grown-Up Float

For a more sophisticated take on the Baileys float, try adding a dash of ground nutmeg and a splash of spiced rum. This variation adds a layer of complexity to the flavour profile, making it a perfect after-dinner treat.

So, there you have it—four ways to blend Baileys into a delicious root beer float. Get creative, experiment with different combinations, and most importantly, enjoy responsibly!

Bourbon and whiskey mixes

The Classic Bourbon and Root Beer Float

The fizzy root beer's distinctive bite and earthy notes are the perfect complement to bourbon's sweetness, creating a creamy and nuanced cocktail. To make this drink, simply combine 2 ounces of bourbon with 8 ounces of root beer in a large glass and give it a light stir—be careful not to decarbonate the drink. Top it off with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and you're done! This drink is a delightful dessert cocktail with a kick.

The Whiskey Variation

For whiskey lovers, a simple twist on the classic bourbon root beer float is to substitute whiskey for bourbon. This variation is recommended by Nashville bartender Jonathan Howard, who finds that root beer mixes far better with whiskey than conventional mixers like ginger ale. The result is a cocktail with added complexity and richness, thanks to root beer's herbaceous quality, unique viscosity, and vanilla notes.

The Boozy Maple Ice Cream Root Beer Float

This variation, which includes whiskey, takes the classic root beer float to the next level. Combine whiskey, root beer, and caramel sauce with a scoop of ice cream for a delicious, boozy treat. This drink is perfect for those who enjoy a mix of sweet and boozy flavours.

The Bourbon Bacon Root Beer Float

This unique cocktail combines the savoury flavour of bacon with the sweetness of root beer and vanilla ice cream, resulting in a complex and indulgent cocktail. To make this drink, simply mix vanilla ice cream, root beer, bourbon, and brown sugar, and top it off with bacon for a savoury twist.

The Root Beer Float Martini

For a more sophisticated take on the root beer float, try the Root Beer Float Martini. This cocktail combines root beer, flavoured vodka, and vanilla ice cream for a delightful mix of flavours. It's the perfect drink for those who want to indulge in a grown-up version of a classic treat.

Rum-based recipes

Rum-based Root Beer Float Recipes

A Rum-based Root Beer Float is a fun twist on the classic version of the drink. It's an easy-to-make, refreshing, and creamy cocktail that's perfect for a hot summer day or a backyard barbecue. Here are some recipes to try:

Basic Rum-based Root Beer Float

Ingredients:

• Vanilla ice cream
• Root beer (chilled)
• Aged rum

Directions: Place a scoop or two of vanilla ice cream into a tall glass. Add a little rum, then slowly pour in the root beer until the glass is full. Stir gently to combine.

Spiced Rum Float

Ingredients:

• Root beer
• Spiced rum
• Vanilla ice cream

Directions: Pour root beer into a mug and stir in spiced rum. Add two scoops of vanilla ice cream and let it melt slightly (about 5 minutes).

Dirty Root Beer Float

Ingredients:

• RumChata (a cream liqueur made with rum, cinnamon, and vanilla)
• Vanilla ice cream
• Root beer

Directions: In a large mug, add RumChata and then the ice cream. Slowly pour the root beer over the top (it will fizz up). You can add more root beer to fill the glass as needed.

Frequently asked questions