Delightfully Creamy Iced Coffee Ice Cream Float Recipe
Chilled swirls of indulgent delight meet bold flavor for a refreshing seasonal treat.
Iced Coffee Ice Cream Float Recipe: A Creamy, Chilled Summer Delight
If you’re a coffee lover searching for the next great way to enjoy your favorite beverage, the iced coffee ice cream float might just be the treat you never knew you needed. This dessert brings together the best of creamy ice cream and rich iced coffee, offering a refreshing twist inspired by the classic Italian affogato and Ree Drummond’s own adored iced coffee method.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy, No-Churn Ice Cream: Skip the ice cream maker with a simple freezer method.
- Cold-Brewed Coffee Base: Robust, smooth coffee elevates flavor and offers energy.
- Customizable Toppings: Cocoa powder, syrups, and even a shot of whiskey for an Irish coffee twist.
- Perfect for Summer: Cool, satisfying, and special enough for gatherings.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Heavy whipping cream | 1 1/2 cups (chilled) | Provides base for creamy ice cream |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | Flavor enhancer |
| Kosher salt | Pinch | Balances sweetness |
| Sweetened condensed milk | 1 can (14 oz.) | Essential for no-churn texture |
| Perfect Iced Coffee | Chilled | See below for recipe |
| Cocoa powder | To serve | Optional garnish |
Step-by-Step Directions
- Prepare the Ice Cream:
- Line a 9-by-5-inch loaf pan with plastic wrap for easy removal.
- Using a hand mixer or stand mixer with whisk attachment, beat cream, vanilla, and salt until medium peaks form.
- Mix in sweetened condensed milk and beat to stiff peaks.
- Spread mixture into loaf pan, cover, and freeze for 4–6 hours until firm.
- Assemble the Float:
- Place a scoop of homemade ice cream into a tall glass.
- Pour cold brewed iced coffee over the ice cream, leaving space at the top.
- Add another scoop or two of ice cream as desired.
- Dust with cocoa powder for a rich, chocolatey finish.
- Enjoy immediately!
Pro Tip
For a grown-up spin, add a shot of whiskey for your personal take on Irish coffee, blending the warmth of spirits with the cool float.
The Perfect Iced Coffee Base
Making great iced coffee is more than pouring brewed coffee over ice. To keep flavor intense and avoid dilution, use a cold brew concentrate:
- Mix 1 lb. ground coffee (choose a rich roast) with 8 quarts cold water in a large container.
- Cover and let sit at room temperature for 12–24 hours for full extraction.
- Strain through fine mesh lined with cheesecloth; discard grounds.
- Chill in refrigerator until ready to use.
For serving, fill a glass with ice, pour coffee two-thirds full, splash in half-and-half if desired, and add sweetener to taste. This robust base is perfect not only for floats but all your iced coffee needs.
What is an Affogato?
The affogato is an Italian dessert where hot espresso is poured over gelato or ice cream—creating a delightful mix of melted cream and coffee. The iced coffee ice cream float adapts this tradition by using cold brewed coffee and homemade ice cream, merging dessert and beverage into an energizing treat.
Creative Variations & Flavor Ideas
- Chocolate Drizzle: Add chocolate syrup or shavings on top for a mocha twist.
- Nutty Additions: Stir in hazelnut or almond syrup for flavor.
- Fruit Flavors: Add a scoop of strawberry or mango sorbet for a tangy surprise.
- Herbal Touches: Sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.
- Non-Dairy: Substitute coconut or oat milk ice cream for vegan floats.
What others are reading
Serving Suggestions
- Serve floats in tall glasses with a long spoon for scooping ice cream.
- Pair with biscotti or shortbread cookies for extra crunch.
- Offer a DIY float bar with various ice cream flavors and toppings at summer parties.
More Ice Cream and Coffee Dessert Inspiration
- Labor Day Desserts: Celebrate with cool treats as summer winds down.
- Popular Ice Cream Flavors: Explore regional favorites to spice up your float.
- No-Churn Mango Sorbet: Try tropical fruit sorbets as alternative float bases.
- Triple Chocolate Sundae Pie: Layer with ice cream for a decadent twist.
- Strawberry Shortcake Sandwiches: Sweet sandwich-style desserts that match the float’s fun.
- Easy No-Bake Ice Cream Pies: Cool off with stress-free desserts.
- Red, White, & Blue Popsicles: Festive treats to accompany your float.
Table: Ice Cream & Coffee Dessert Pairing
| Dessert | Core Ingredients | Occasion |
|---|---|---|
| Iced Coffee Ice Cream Float | No-churn ice cream, chilled coffee | Summer parties, brunch |
| Affogato | Hot espresso, gelato | Dinner dessert, Italian night |
| Mango Sorbet Float | No-churn mango sorbet, sparkling water | Tropical theme, July 4th |
| Chocolate Sundae Pie | Chocolate ice cream, cookie crust | Celebrations, holidays |
Tips for Making the Ultimate Float
- Use Very Cold Ingredients: Both the ice cream and coffee should be well chilled to prevent quick melting.
- Medium to Stiff Peaks in Cream: For the ice cream, beat cream until it’s thick but not grainy for optimal texture.
- Freeze Completely: Allow a full 4–6 hours; overnight is better if you’re planning ahead.
- Classic Pairing: Vanilla, chocolate, mocha, and caramel ice cream work well with coffee.
- Serve Immediately: This float is best enjoyed right after assembly.
Troubleshooting & FAQ
Q: Can I make the ice cream ahead of time?
Absolutely. The no-churn ice cream can be kept in the freezer for up to two weeks; just scoop when ready to serve.
Q: Is iced coffee just coffee poured over ice?
No. Simply pouring hot coffee over ice leads to watery flavor. For true iced coffee, use a strong cold brew concentrate to ensure full taste.
Q: What are the best ice cream flavors for coffee floats?
Classic flavors like vanilla, chocolate, coffee, and caramel pair beautifully. Feel free to experiment with fruity or nutty options for fun twists.
Q: Can I make this float without dairy?
Yes. Swap the heavy cream for coconut or oat-based substitutes, and use non-dairy condensed milk or alternatives for a plant-based version.
Q: How do I adjust sweetness?
Sweetness can be customized: modify the amount of condensed milk, use flavored syrups, or sprinkle sugar over the top as you prefer.
Fun Facts & Dessert History
- Root Beer Floats: The idea for coffee ice cream floats plays off the classic root beer float, swapping soda for coffee for adults.
- Sherbet vs Sherbert: Did you know that ‘sherbet’ is the correct spelling, though ‘sherbert’ is widely used? It’s a fun debate among dessert fans.
- Affogato: Derived from the Italian word for ‘drowned’, affogato typically features vanilla gelato submerged in espresso.
Perfect Pairings for the Float
- Labor Day Celebrations: A crowd-pleaser for end-of-summer parties.
- Brunch Gatherings: Serve as a playful coffee-dessert hybrid.
- After-Dinner Treat: Simple yet impressive for guests or family.
- DIY Summer Dessert Bar: Offer a line-up of ice creams, coffees, and toppings for interactive fun.
Additional Dessert Inspirations & Easy Recipes
- No-Bake Mango Sorbet: For a tropical variation, add mango sorbet to your coffee for a fruity float.
- Red, White & Blue Popsicles: Festive and refreshing, perfect for patriotic holidays.
- Ice Cream Pies: Simple to assemble and serve for gatherings.
- Healthy Dessert Ideas: Satisfy your sweet tooth without overindulgence—try lighter milks or frozen yogurt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought ice cream instead of homemade?
Yes, store-bought vanilla ice cream works if you’re short on time, but homemade no-churn ice cream offers a fresher, creamier result.
What’s the best coffee for floats?
Use cold brew or strong iced coffee concentrate—a rich roast makes for a more flavorful dessert.
Can I prepare the coffee ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare and chill your cold brew several days in advance for quick assembly.
How do I avoid quick melting?
Have all ingredients well chilled, use thick glassware, and serve floats immediately after assembling.
Is this dessert suitable for children?
Yes, if you omit coffee liqueur or whiskey. Use decaffeinated coffee for a kid-friendly treat.
Wrap-Up: Enjoy Your Iced Coffee Ice Cream Float
With a few simple steps, you can create the ultimate iced coffee ice cream float—creamy, invigorating and perfect for beating summer heat or satisfying a craving any time of day. Whether you mix things up with different flavors, add fun toppings, or go for an adult twist with whiskey, this treat is sure to be a new favorite. Try it out, and enjoy a dessert that truly combines the comfort of coffee with the joy of ice cream.
References
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a43841784/iced-coffee-ice-cream-float-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a40002708/coffee-ice-cream-recipe/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ke56JRri-k
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a11061/perfect-iced-coffee/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g65490044/best-coffee-desserts/
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