Name: Apple Cider Float Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup vanilla bean ice cream (8 ounces); 1 cup cold apple cider or sparkling apple cider; Cinnamon sugar (optional, for garnish); Red apple slices; Cinnamon stick; Whole star anise

There’s something utterly magical about the mix of cold, creamy vanilla ice cream and crisp apple cider bubbling together—that’s exactly what makes this Apple Cider Float Recipe so irresistible. It’s like autumn in a glass, perfect for cozy moments or impressing friends with minimal fuss.

A tall clear glass filled with a creamy light beige drink that has a frothy texture and some bubbles, sitting on a small round wooden coaster. The drink is topped with three thin apple slices placed upright and fanned out, next to a cinnamon stick and a star anise spice on top. Around the glass, there are whole red apples, star anise pieces, cinnamon sticks, and a bowl of star anise, all arranged on a white marbled surface with a pink cloth in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Apple Cider Float Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Apple Cider Float Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Apple Cider Float Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

From the very first sip, this Apple Cider Float Recipe feels like a simple indulgence that instantly lifts your spirits. I adore how easy it is to make yet feels special enough to serve up during fall gatherings or a quiet night in.

Effortlessly Elegant: Just two main ingredients come together for a delightful treat anyone can whip up in minutes.
Seasonal Nostalgia: The crisp apple cider echoes fall’s best flavors, bringing cozy vibes with every sip.
Customizable Flair: Whether you like it sparkling or still, spiked or classic, you can tailor it your way.
Beautiful Presentation: Garnishes like apple slices and cinnamon sticks make this float a feast for the eyes, perfect for impressing guests.

A tall clear glass filled with a creamy white drink topped with a thick layer of white foam sprinkled with light brown cinnamon powder. On top of the foam, there is a cinnamon stick placed vertically and three thin, triangular slices of apple with red edges arranged like a fan. A silver spoon holding some of the foam is lifted just above the glass. The glass sits on a round wooden coaster. Around the glass, there are red apples, cinnamon sticks, star anise, and a small white bowl with apple slices on a white marbled surface. A pink cloth is partially visible to the right, and a white jar with a wooden knob is in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

It takes just a handful of ingredients to create this Apple Cider Float Recipe, but each one plays a starring role in that signature flavor and texture combo. Picking good-quality vanilla bean ice cream and fresh apple cider really makes the difference.

Flat lay of creamy vanilla bean ice cream scoops, fresh red apple slices fanned out, whole star anise pods, cinnamon sticks, and a small pile of golden cinnamon sugar crystals, with a glass bottle of sparkling apple cider nearby, placed on a white marble surface, photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Rich, creamy, and fragrant with real vanilla beans—it melts slowly into the cider for that dreamy float effect.
Apple Cider (or Sparkling Apple Cider): The crisp, natural sweetness of apple cider balances with the ice cream, and using sparkling cider adds a fun fizz.
Cinnamon Sugar (optional): Just a light sprinkle adds a warm spice kick that pairs beautifully with the apple notes.
Red Apple Slices: Thinly sliced for a pretty “apple fan” garnish that adds fresh crunch and color.
Cinnamon Stick: Besides looking charming, it infuses a subtle cinnamon aroma as you sip.
Whole Star Anise: This is purely for decoration, but it’s a lovely touch that hints at fall spices.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

I love mixing up this Apple Cider Float Recipe based on the occasion or mood. Sometimes I go classic with still cider, other times I stir in a splash of bourbon for an adult twist. You should definitely play around with it too!

Sparkling vs. Still: I usually skip bubbles for a smoother experience, but my husband swears the sparkling cider adds a festive, lively touch.
Spiked Version: Adding a splash of spiced rum or Fireball really turned my float into a party hit last fall.
Extra Treats: Whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel, or even a tiny donut perched on top make it feel like a celebration in a glass.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Apple Cider Float Recipe

Step 1: Scoop with Confidence

Start by placing about one cup of rich vanilla bean ice cream into a tall glass. I find that filling it about two-thirds of the way up gives just the right balance between ice cream and cider. Make sure the ice cream is slightly softened—it helps it mingle nicely with the cider without sinking to the bottom instantly.

Step 2: Pour the Apple Cider Slowly

Next, gently pour one cup of cold apple cider over the ice cream. If you’re using sparkling cider, pour slowly to control the bubbles and avoid overflow. Watching the fizz create little creamy bubbles is half the fun! If you want a bit of a grown-up edge, now’s the time to add that splash of spiced rum or bourbon before the cider.

Step 3: Garnish Like a Pro

Finish off with a fan of thinly sliced red apple, a cinnamon stick, and a whole star anise for that cozy fall vibe. Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon sugar over the top and down the glass side for a subtle sparkle and warmth. Trust me, these little details elevate the whole experience.

Step 4: Serve Immediately and Enjoy

This float is best enjoyed the moment you make it—before the ice cream fully melts. Grab a long spoon or a straw, and dive into that creamy, tangy goodness!

Top Tip

When I first made this Apple Cider Float Recipe, I learned a few tricks that turned out to be game changers for texture and presentation. These tips really help you make it look and taste like a dream, whether you’re treating yourself or impressing guests.

Scoop Timing: Let the ice cream soften just enough so it melts into the cider smoothly but still holds shape.
Pour Slowly: When using sparkling apple cider, pour in a slow, steady stream to control the frothy bubbles and prevent spills.
Apple Fan Hack: Stack thin apple slices and gently fan them out before skewering with a cocktail pick—it creates an elegant garnish instantly.
Prep Ahead: Chill your glasses and cider beforehand to keep the float cool longer.

How to Serve Apple Cider Float Recipe

Garnishes

I’m a sucker for the classic garnishes here—a cinnamon stick for stirring, a pretty fan of apple slices, and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for that warm, spicy kiss. The star anise is more of a visual bonus, but it lends a little theatrical touch that guests love to ask about.

Side Dishes

This float pairs beautifully with lightly spiced baked goods like cinnamon sugar donuts, pumpkin muffins, or even simple buttery shortbread. It’s also fantastic alongside a crisp green salad for a refreshing fall lunch or an autumn brunch spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday parties, I like serving Apple Cider Floats in clear mason jars with twine wrapped around the top and tiny cinnamon sticks tied on as little “handles.” Sometimes I add whipped cream “snow” and a caramel drizzle for an extra festive flair. Kids love little paper straws and a sprinkle of edible gold dust for fun sparkle.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Because this float is best fresh, I don’t recommend assembling in advance. However, you can definitely prep garnishes, chill the cider, and even chill your glasses earlier in the day. I store leftover apple cider in the fridge tight-sealed to keep it crisp and fresh.

Freezing

I haven’t tried freezing the assembled float (it wouldn’t be the same once melted), but you can freeze leftover vanilla ice cream separately or even freeze apple cider into ice cubes to add to drinks later.

Reheating

This drink is meant to be served cold, so reheating isn’t part of the plan. Instead, just make fresh floats each time you want a treat. It only takes 5 minutes!

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use sparkling apple cider in this Apple Cider Float Recipe?

Absolutely! Sparkling apple cider adds a fun effervescence. Pour slowly to avoid overflow, and enjoy those fizzing bubbles mixing with the creamy ice cream.

What type of ice cream works best for the float?

Vanilla bean ice cream is my go-to because its rich, creamy texture and fragrant vanilla notes pair perfectly with tart apple cider. You can use any vanilla ice cream you prefer, but the bean variety has that extra touch of flavor.

Can I make this float ahead of time?

It’s best to assemble the float right before serving to keep the ice cream from melting and the cider from going flat. However, you can prep the garnishes, chill the cider, and glass ahead of time to speed things up.

Any tips for garnishing my Apple Cider Float Recipe?

Thinly slice red apples and fan them out on a cocktail pick—it looks stunning and adds fresh crunch. A cinnamon stick as a stirrer brings aroma and style. Don’t forget a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for warmth and sparkle!

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cider Float Recipe truly feels like a little celebration in a glass each time I make it. Whether it’s a quiet moment alone or a gathering with friends, it never fails to brighten my day—and I know you’ll enjoy making it just as much. Cheers to simple pleasures and tasty experiments!