Pin This Rebel Float Apple Cider with Cinnamon Ice Cream is pure nostalgia in a mug A simple twist on the classic hot apple cider float it delivers both warmth and comfort with every sip and scoop Whether you share it by the fireplace or serve it as a crowd-pleasing finale to a cozy dinner it always works its magic
The first time I made this my kitchen smelled like a holiday market and my younger sister immediately claimed it as her new favorite winter treat We now make it every year for our friends
Ingredients
- Apple cider: brings real apple flavor Choose fresh local cider for the freshest taste
- Cinnamon sticks: infuse a natural warming spice Look for sticks that are plump and fragrant
- Whole cloves: add depth and intensity Use whole not ground for a subtle infusion
- Star anise: gives gentle licorice notes and elegance Use only if you enjoy light anise flavor
- Brown sugar: rounds out the acidity Select dark brown sugar for extra caramel notes or keep it lighter if you want the apple to shine
- Cinnamon ice cream: creamy base that unites all the other flavors Use homemade or pick a high-quality store version Soft and not overly icy is best
- Whipped cream: for an indulgent cloudlike garnish Choose real dairy or a trusted dairy-free option for the best finish
- Ground cinnamon: supplies spicy warmth and gorgeous color on top
- Thin apple slices: fresh crunch and beauty Pick a sweet crisp variety like Honeycrisp or Gala for decoration
Instructions
- Simmer the Spices and Cider:
- Combine apple cider cinnamon sticks cloves star anise and brown sugar in a medium saucepan Set the pan over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer Let it bubble slowly for about eight to ten minutes stirring occasionally You will know it is ready when your kitchen smells cozy and the cider has deepened in color
- Strain the Infused Cider:
- Take the saucepan off the heat Carefully strain the cider through a fine mesh strainer into a heatproof pitcher or a bowl Discard the spices to avoid any gritty bits in your float
- Prepare the Glasses:
- Divide the steaming cider evenly between four sturdy heatproof glasses or mugs Make sure to leave enough space for the ice cream scoop
- Add the Ice Cream:
- Working quickly top each steaming mug with a generous scoop of cinnamon ice cream Drop the scoop gently into the center of the glass so it melts just enough to mingle with the cider
- Garnish and Serve:
- If you like top with a dollop of whipped cream a light dusting of ground cinnamon and a couple of thin apple slices or a cinnamon stick for flair Serve immediately Offer a long spoon and a straw so everyone can enjoy both the creamy and fruity parts
Pin The first time my nephews tried this they could not stop grinning about the ice cream clouds
Storage Tips
This drink is best served fresh and hot For the cider itself you can prepare it ahead let it cool and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days Reheat gently in a saucepan before assembling your floats Always add ice cream and toppings right before serving
Ingredient Substitutions
If cinnamon ice cream is hard to find soften vanilla ice cream and swirl in plenty of ground cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg Non dairy or vegan ice creams work well Avoid fruit based sorbets for this recipe Since cider is central pick a non alcoholic sparkling apple juice for a fizzier version
Serving Suggestions
Serve this float after a big winter meal as a lighter dessert or for festive brunches alongside cinnamon sugar donuts If you want to impress set up a DIY float bar so guests can garnish their own mugs with different toppings like candied ginger or caramel drizzle
Cultural Historical Context
Apple cider floats are a playful spin on traditional American soda fountain floats Swapping soda for hot spiced cider brings a nostalgic autumn feeling inspired by classic harvest gatherings In some regions cinnamon ice cream traces back to farmstead recipes meant to highlight orchard flavors in fall and winter
Seasonal Adaptations
In warmer months serve the cider chilled with a frosty scoop for more of a summer float Try ginger ice cream or caramel ice cream for extra holiday flair Use mulled pear or cherry cider to change the profile with the seasons
Pin Three notes to remember Add a splash of spiced rum or bourbon for bonus warmth If you need a larger batch simply multiply the recipe and keep cider warming in a slow cooker Always use a fine mesh strainer to avoid stray spice bits
Recipe Questions
- → How do I prevent the ice cream from melting too quickly?
Make sure the cider has cooled slightly before assembling, and use firm, well-frozen ice cream to slow melting.
- → Can I prepare the spiced cider in advance?
Yes, the spiced cider can be made ahead and gently reheated before serving. Add ice cream and garnishes just before enjoying.
- → What substitutions work for cinnamon ice cream?
Try vanilla or caramel ice cream sprinkled with ground cinnamon for a similar flavor profile if cinnamon ice cream isn't available.
- → Is there an option for an adult twist?
A splash of bourbon or spiced rum added to the cider turns this dessert drink into a warming adult treat.
- → How do I make this beverage vegan?
Use plant-based ice cream and dairy-free whipped topping to create a delicious vegan-friendly version of this float.
- → What glassware is recommended?
Serve in heatproof glasses or mugs to handle the temperature contrast between the hot cider and cold ice cream.