Old fashioned ice cream float being held. July is National Ice Cream month so I’m kicking it off with some blogger friends. I really love all things vintage. From clothing to architecture (especially mid-century modern), to food and beverages. Though I didn’t grow up in the ’50s, when they were so popular, I did enjoy a few as a kid. Ice cream floats were always a treat in my house growing up.

When they were invented, back in the late 1800s, they were called ice cream sodas. They were made with the intent to be a non-alcoholic beverage. The second phase of the ice cream soda was the grown-up version that included alcohol.

My version here is a childhood favorite that has withstood the test of time. The classic Coke float. I’m an advocate for using any sort of cola – Coca-Cola, Pepsi, Diet Soda, flavored soda, whatever is your favorite.

Overhead view of a coke float.

I would say I’ve not made this treat for many, many, many years. I had never made one for my kids before I made the one for this blog post. Well, one sip and the kids were hooked. They were in ice cream float heaven.

What’s so awesome about this recipe is that you can make as many or as few as you need. Even customize them with different sodas. You could offer a make your own float station at a party for even more fun.

old fashioned cola float Pinterest image

Print Recipe Save Recipe Pin Recipe

Old Fashioned Cola Float

A old fashioned cola float will take you back to your childhood.

5 from 1 vote

Prep Time5

Total Time5

Course: Beverages and Cocktails

Cuisine: American

Keyword: coca cola float, coke float, ice cream float

Author: Ellen Folkman

Equipment

16 ounce Mason Jar Mug with Handle – Case of 12

Ingredients

Vanilla Ice Cream
Cola
Whipped Cream I use Reddi-Whip
Cherry
Chilled glass mugs or soda glasses

Instructions

For each serving: Fill chilled glass with a few scoops of vanilla ice cream. Top off with cola. Top with whipped cream and a cherry.
Enjoy!

9 Comments

Oh, I want one, but I stopped drinking soda a couple of years ago. These are beautiful, Ellen.

I love a black cow! Mom got me started on every flavor of float when I was a kid and I’ve been happily drinking those up since!

How can you go wrong with a Coke float? Yummy!

I always go for rootbeer when I want a float….great contribution to this party Ellen.

Can’t go wrong with a classic!

I never had Cola Float before. I guess I should give it a try if I want to be a true American, lol. Sounds delicious!

I’m glad you introduced the boys to floats! They are definitey a summer classic. Little dude had his first last year. He loves them with orange soda or root beer!