If you’re looking for a fun, refreshing, and cozy drink to celebrate fall, this apple cider float ice cream recipe is your next favorite treat! Made with crisp apple cider, creamy dairy-free ice cream, and warm spices like cinnamon, it’s the perfect balance between indulgence and health.
This healthier twist captures the essence of a classic ice cream float but replaces sugary sodas with natural apple cider — giving you all the fall flavor without the guilt.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Cider Float Ice Cream
There’s so much to adore about this easy fall dessert drink:
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 5 minutes — no cooking required!
- Healthier Choice: Made with low-sugar cider and non-dairy vanilla ice cream for a lighter treat.
- Festive Flavors: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and apple slices make it taste (and look) like autumn in a glass.
- Family-Friendly: Perfect for kids, teens, and adults — no alcohol or caffeine.
- Beautiful Presentation: The floating scoops and apple garnish make it picture-perfect for fall gatherings.
Ingredients for Apple Cider Float Ice Cream
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cold apple cider (low-sugar or fresh-pressed preferred)
- 2 scoops vanilla ice cream (dairy-free or reduced-fat option works great)
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for warmth)
- 1 small red apple, thinly sliced for garnish
- Cinnamon sticks or star anise (optional, for decoration)
Ingredient Notes (Healthy Substitutions)
- Ice Cream: Use oat milk, coconut, or almond-based ice cream to make it lactose-free and lighter.
- Apple Cider: Opt for unsweetened or reduced-sugar cider — it keeps the flavor fresh without too much sweetness.
- Spices: A pinch of pumpkin pie spice or ginger can add depth if you love extra fall flavor.
- Toppings: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar (optional) or crushed granola for crunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Chill the Glasses
Place your serving glasses in the fridge for 5–10 minutes to keep your float extra cold and creamy.
Step 2 – Add the Ice Cream
Add one or two scoops of vanilla ice cream to each chilled glass. If you’re using dairy-free ice cream, let it soften for 2–3 minutes before scooping.
Step 3 – Pour the Apple Cider
Slowly pour cold apple cider over the ice cream until the glass is nearly full. The cider will foam lightly as it meets the ice cream — just like a soda float!
Step 4 – Add Spices and Garnishes
Sprinkle cinnamon and nutmeg on top, then garnish with thin apple slices and a cinnamon stick for a cozy look.
Step 5 – Serve and Enjoy!
Serve immediately with a straw and a long spoon. You can even top it with a touch of whipped coconut cream for extra fun.
Pro Tips for Success
- Chill everything first — cold cider + cold glasses = longer-lasting float.
- Pour slowly to control the foam and keep the layers beautiful.
- Try sparkling apple cider if you like a fizzy version.
- Add vanilla extract for a deeper flavor (½ teaspoon works wonders).
- Serve right away — floats melt quickly, and that’s part of their charm!
- Make it festive with a cinnamon sugar rim on the glass.
Flavor Variations
- Caramel Apple Float: Drizzle a bit of sugar-free caramel sauce before adding the cider.
- Spiced Pear Float: Use pear cider and cinnamon for a sweet twist.
- Pumpkin Cream Float: Add a spoon of pumpkin puree to the ice cream before scooping.
- Berry Apple Float: Mix in frozen cranberries or raspberries for color and tang.
- Ginger Cider Float: Use ginger cider for a bright, spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions
- Perfect for Thanksgiving desserts or Halloween parties.
- Pair with apple pie, cinnamon donuts, or oatmeal cookies.
- Serve in clear glasses to show off the beautiful layers.
- For gatherings, set up a “float bar” — guests can choose their own cider type and toppings.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
This drink is best made fresh, but here are tips if prepping ahead:
- Ice Cream: Scoop into balls and freeze on a tray for quick assembly.
- Cider: Keep chilled in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Spice Mix: Combine cinnamon and nutmeg in a jar and store for easy reuse.
Avoid mixing in advance — the float will lose its fizz and melt.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 185 kcal |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 32 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 60 mg |
(Values are approximate and vary by ice cream brand.)
FAQ About Apple Cider Float Ice Cream
What type of apple cider works best?
Use fresh or cold-pressed apple cider for a bold flavor. Avoid apple juice, which is too sweet and lacks that warm fall tang.
Can I make this vegan?
Yes! Use plant-based ice cream (like oat or almond milk) and ensure your cider has no added honey.
Can I make it ahead?
It’s best served right away, but you can chill your ingredients and prep garnishes in advance.
Can I make it sparkling?
Absolutely — use sparkling apple cider or soda water for a fizzy twist.
Is it okay for kids?
Yes, completely! This version uses only natural cider and dairy-free ice cream — no alcohol, caffeine, or artificial sweeteners.
Final Thoughts
The apple cider float ice cream is a beautiful reminder that fall flavors can be both indulgent and wholesome. Whether you’re enjoying it after dinner or serving it at a party, this creamy, spiced float is a feel-good, family-friendly treat that captures the joy of the season in every sip.
Print
Apple Cider Float Ice Cream – A Fresh & Healthy Fall Treat
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A healthy, family-friendly twist on the classic apple cider float ice cream made with low-sugar cider and dairy-free ice cream.
Ingredients
2 cups cold apple cider (low-sugar)
2 scoops vanilla ice cream (dairy-free)
½ tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp ground nutmeg
1 small red apple (sliced)
Cinnamon stick (optional)
Instructions
1. Chill serving glasses.
2. Add ice cream scoops to each glass.
3. Pour cold cider slowly over the ice cream.
4. Sprinkle with cinnamon and nutmeg.
5. Garnish with apple slices and cinnamon stick.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Use dairy-free ice cream for a lighter treat.
Try sparkling cider for a fizzy twist.
Best served immediately for optimal texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass
- Calories: 185
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
