Pin Rebel Float Hot Chocolate with Marshmallow Cream Soda is my go-to treat when I want to turn a chilly evening into something magical. This creamy hot chocolate meets fizzy soda float and brings out the kid in everyone. Serve as an indulgent dessert or a festive drink for special nights with family or friends.
When I first mixed marshmallow cream with hot chocolate the reaction in my kitchen was pure delight. My kids laughed at the bubbles and now this float is a winter tradition for us.
Ingredients
- Whole milk: provides creamy richness and carries the chocolate flavors Best results come from using fresh high-quality milk
- Dark chocolate: chopped for bold chocolate flavor Always choose good-quality bars for a deeper taste
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: intensifies the chocolate depth Look for Dutch-processed cocoa for a smooth finish
- Granulated sugar: balances the bittersweet chocolate Adjust to your preferred sweetness
- Pure vanilla extract: adds warmth Always use real extract for best aroma
- Pinch of salt: enhances the chocolate and rounds all flavors together
- Marshmallow creme or fluff: brings a dreamy texture Use a jar where the fluffy strands pull easily for smooth mixing
- Club soda: chilled gives the soda its signature fizz Fresh and cold soda produces more bubbles
- Mini marshmallows: for a fun soft finish on top Plump ones toast well if desired
- Whipped cream optional: for extra decadence Real cream whipped at home holds up best
- Chocolate shavings optional: for a sophisticated chocolate hit Try using a vegetable peeler on a chocolate bar
Instructions
- Heat the Chocolate Base:
- Combine milk chopped chocolate cocoa powder sugar vanilla and a pinch of salt in a small saucepan Place over medium heat and whisk constantly Let the chocolate melt and the mixture become smooth and steaming This gentle heating technique prevents scorching and boosts flavor development
- Prepare the Marshmallow Cream Soda:
- While the chocolate warms up use a mixing bowl to blend the marshmallow creme and vanilla Stir vigorously for thirty seconds to loosen the fluff Slowly add the chilled club soda in a thin stream whisking to make a smooth and frothy cream soda The cold soda helps trap air bubbles for extra fizz
- Serve the Float:
- Pour the hot chocolate mixture evenly into two mugs or heatproof glasses The mugs should be warm to the touch for the ultimate experience
- Float the Marshmallow Cream Soda:
- Carefully spoon the frothy marshmallow cream soda onto each mug letting it stay afloat over the hot chocolate If you work gently the layers will stay distinct with a dramatic foamy top
- Add Toppings and Finish:
- Crown each float with a generous handful of mini marshmallows Add whipped cream and chocolate shavings if you like Grab a straw and a spoon for the full float experience Enjoy immediately before the bubbles settle
Pin Marshmallow creme truly transforms the drink into something special It reminds me of old campfire nights where gooey marshmallows were always the highlight Now this float brings those memories right to my kitchen especially when I see my family fighting over who gets the most foam
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers store the hot chocolate and marshmallow cream soda separately in airtight containers in the fridge up to two days Warm the chocolate gently over low heat and rewhisk the soda before assembling Never store with toppings or fizz already added
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap almond or oat milk for cow's milk to make this drink vegan If you are out of marshmallow creme try melting regular marshmallows in a splash of hot water for a shortcut You can vary chocolate intensity by mixing in a few milk chocolate chips
Serving Suggestions
Serve with extra toppings and a side of homemade cookies or biscotti For an adult version add a splash of bourbon or coffee liqueur This makes a showstopping dessert for movie nights sleepovers or holiday brunches
Cultural and Historical Context
Hot chocolate floats have their roots in classic American soda fountains where floats merged soda and ice cream Here the playful marshmallow cream blends nostalgia with a grown up twist I love how it bridges generations everyone from kids to grandparents lights up when sipping
Seasonal Adaptations
Hot chocolate floats warm winter evenings Fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of cinnamon bring holiday flair Swap marshmallow topping for strawberry slices in spring for a lighter feel
Success Stories
I served this at my daughter's birthday sleepover and it was the hit of the night The kids loved the dramatic float and everyone asked for seconds Friends who claim they prefer classic floats could not believe how the hot chocolate version bubbles up and delivers so much fun
Freezer Meal Conversion
You can make the hot chocolate base ahead cool completely and freeze it in single serve portions When ready thaw and heat gently Whisk to restore smoothness and build the float as described Freshly mixed marshmallow cream soda is always best for top fizz
Pin This float brings excitement to any day and is sure to spark laughter and memories with every mug. Enjoy it hot fizzy and with extra marshmallows for that perfect finish.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute whole milk with oat or almond milk and use dairy-free whipped topping if desired.
- → How do I make the marshmallow cream soda layer?
Whisk marshmallow creme and vanilla, then gradually mix in chilled club soda until frothy and smooth.
- → What type of chocolate works best?
Dark chocolate gives a richer flavor, but you can use milk chocolate for a sweeter drink if preferred.
- → Can I add alcohol for an adult version?
Add a splash of coffee liqueur or bourbon to each mug before combining for a delicious boozy twist.
- → Is it possible to adjust the sweetness?
Absolutely, simply increase or decrease the sugar to suit your taste before serving.