Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is simple, nostalgic, and endlessly customizable. It’s part cocktail, part dessert — ideal for entertaining or treating yourself on a chilly evening. The warm spice of apple cider combined with smooth vanilla ice cream and a boozy kick creates a balanced flavor that’s sweet, creamy, and satisfying. You can make them individually or as a batch for a crowd, and no fancy equipment is needed.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Apple cider (chilled or warm)
Vanilla ice cream
Spiced rum, bourbon, whiskey, or apple brandy
Ground cinnamon (optional for garnish)
Whipped cream (optional)
Caramel sauce (optional drizzle)
Apple slices or cinnamon sticks (optional garnish)

Directions

Scoop 1–2 generous scoops of vanilla ice cream into a tall glass or mug.
Add 1–1½ ounces of your preferred spirit (spiced rum, bourbon, or apple brandy work great).
Slowly pour chilled or warm apple cider over the ice cream until the glass is nearly full.
Top with whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a drizzle of caramel sauce if desired.
Garnish with an apple slice or a cinnamon stick.
Serve immediately with a straw and spoon.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 1 float.

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: None (unless warming the cider)
Total time: 5 minutes

To make more, simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings.

Variations

Non-Alcoholic: Skip the booze for a kid-friendly version — just apple cider and ice cream.
Hot Float: Use warm apple cider for a cozy, melty dessert drink.
Hard Cider Twist: Use hard apple cider in place of regular for a fizzy version.
Fall Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg, clove, or pumpkin pie spice to the top.
Cider Sorbet: Use apple or cider sorbet instead of vanilla ice cream for a dairy-free option.
Bourbon Caramel: Use caramel-flavored bourbon or drizzle with spiked caramel sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Spiked Apple Cider Floats are best enjoyed immediately after making.

Leftovers: Not recommended due to melting.
Cider prep: You can prep and chill (or warm) your cider in advance.
Batch serving: Scoop ice cream into glasses and freeze ahead of time. When ready to serve, just add alcohol and cider.

FAQs

Can I make this without alcohol?

Yes! Just omit the booze for a fun and festive treat that’s great for all ages.

What kind of alcohol is best?

Spiced rum, bourbon, apple brandy, or whiskey all work beautifully with the cider and ice cream.

Should the cider be hot or cold?

Either works! Cold makes a more traditional float; warm makes a cozy dessert-drink hybrid.

What type of ice cream should I use?

Vanilla is classic, but cinnamon, caramel swirl, or even butter pecan can add more fall flavor.

Can I use hard cider?

Yes! Hard cider makes a bubbly, refreshing version with a bit more tang.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use a dairy-free ice cream or apple sorbet and ensure your alcohol is dairy-free.

How do I serve this at a party?

Pre-scoop ice cream into glasses and freeze. Set up a float bar with cider, spirits, and toppings.

Can I use store-bought apple cider?

Absolutely. Just make sure it’s high-quality for the best flavor.

What garnishes go well?

Apple slices, cinnamon sticks, caramel drizzle, or even a dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg.

Is this more of a drink or a dessert?

It’s both! It works great as a dessert cocktail or a sweet ending to a fall meal.

Conclusion

Spiked Apple Cider Floats are a deliciously playful blend of cocktail and dessert, perfect for celebrating the flavors of fall. With creamy vanilla ice cream, cozy apple cider, and a splash of warming spirits, they’re easy to make, endlessly customizable, and sure to impress. Whether you serve them at a party or savor one on your own, this float is pure fall-in-a-glass comfort.

Spiked Apple Cider Floats

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Spiked Apple Cider Floats are a festive fall dessert-cocktail hybrid made with creamy vanilla ice cream, warm or chilled apple cider, and a splash of bourbon, rum, or apple brandy. Topped with whipped cream and cinnamon, these indulgent floats are perfect for cozy nights or entertaining guests.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: None (unless warming cider)
Total Time: 5 minutes
Yield: 1 float
Category: Drinks, Dessert
Method: Assembled
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

1–2 scoops vanilla ice cream
1–1½ oz spiced rum, bourbon, whiskey, or apple brandy
1/2–3/4 cup apple cider (chilled or warm)
Whipped cream (optional)
Ground cinnamon (optional, for garnish)
Caramel sauce (optional drizzle)
Apple slice or cinnamon stick (optional garnish)

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Instructions

Scoop ice cream into a tall glass or mug.
Pour in the alcohol of your choice.
Slowly add chilled or warm apple cider, allowing the float to foam.
Top with whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and caramel sauce if using.
Garnish with an apple slice or cinnamon stick. Serve immediately with a straw and spoon.

Notes

Use warm cider for a cozy twist — perfect for cold nights.
Try flavored ice cream like cinnamon, caramel, or butter pecan for extra autumn vibes.
Pre-scoop and freeze ice cream in glasses for easy party serving.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 float
Calories: 270
Sugar: 22g
Sodium: 50mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 30mg