RumChata Root Beer Floats Are the Perfect Dessert Cocktail

Why RumChata Root Beer Floats Are the Perfect Dessert Cocktail

If you’re someone who loves dessert and a little something boozy, the RumChata Root Beer Float might just be your new obsession. It’s one of those drinks that instantly brings back childhood memories with a grown-up twist. Sweet, creamy, fizzy, and spiked just right—it checks all the boxes. Picture a hot summer day, a backyard BBQ, or even a cozy winter night when you’re just craving something indulgent and fun. This float isn’t just a drink—it’s a vibe. It’s creamy like a milkshake, bubbly like soda, and the cinnamon-vanilla flavor of RumChata ties it all together in a way that’s pure magic. Let’s be honest: root beer floats were already great. But spike them with RumChata? Now they’re legendary.

The Nostalgic Twist on Classic Root Beer Floats

Remember the good old-fashioned root beer floats you had as a kid? There was nothing like that creamy, fizzy, overflowing mess that required a spoon, a straw, and usually a napkin. Fast forward to adulthood and you’ve got the grown-up version—same fun, a little more flavor complexity, and just enough alcohol to make it interesting. This twist doesn’t ruin the memory—it enhances it. By adding RumChata, you’re not just drinking something for nostalgia; you’re upgrading it into a full-fledged dessert cocktail. It’s like your childhood favorite went on a vacation and came back with a tan, new friends, and stories to tell.

What is RumChata?

So, what exactly is RumChata? If you haven’t been introduced yet, you’re in for a treat. RumChata is a creamy liqueur made with Caribbean rum, real dairy cream, cinnamon, vanilla, and sugar. Think horchata (a traditional Mexican rice and cinnamon drink) meets rum, meets Irish cream. It’s sweet, velvety, and perfect for adding a kick to desserts, coffee, or floats like this. Its flavor profile is what makes it such a great match for root beer—vanilla meets spice, meets creamy decadence. That slight hint of cinnamon? Pure genius when it meets the sharp bite of root beer.

The Magic of Root Beer in Cocktails

Root beer is wildly underrated in cocktails. It’s complex, with notes of anise, vanilla, molasses, and herbs that create a symphony of flavor all on their own. So when you pair it with something creamy and sweet like RumChata, you’re not just making a soda float—you’re building layers of flavor. Plus, root beer has the carbonation that cuts through richness, making every sip feel lighter and more refreshing than you’d expect. Whether you go with a craft root beer or the good ol’ A&W, it’ll bring bold flavor to the table.

The Best Brands of Root Beer to Use
Not all root beers are created equal. Some are super sweet, some are herbal and earthy, and others have that classic fizzy zip. For this float, you’ll want something that balances out the RumChata without overpowering it.

Here are a few top picks:

• IBC Root Beer – Rich, traditional flavor, no caffeine.
• A&W – Sweet, nostalgic, and creamy.
• Boylan’s – Craft-style, less sweet, more rooty.
• Barq’s – Has a slight caffeine kick, bolder flavor.
• Virgil’s – All-natural, gourmet taste.

Try a few to find your favorite—it’s a great excuse to make multiple floats!

Vanilla Ice Cream: The Creamy Backbone

Ice cream is the soul of any float. And for RumChata Root Beer Floats, vanilla is the only way to go. But not all vanilla ice creams are created equally. Some are rich and eggy, others light and airy. You’ll want one that’s creamy and holds up to the fizzy root beer without turning into a soup immediately.

Here are some solid choices:

• Häagen-Dazs Vanilla Bean – Thick, creamy, and full of flavor.
• Tillamook Old-Fashioned Vanilla – Dense and buttery.
• Ben & Jerry’s Vanilla – Creamy with a great melt.
• Breyers Natural Vanilla – Softer texture, less rich but still solid.

Want to really go gourmet? Try making your own vanilla ice cream at home and thank yourself later.

Essential Ingredients for RumChata Root Beer Floats
Let’s recap the hero ingredients you’ll need to whip up this decadent dessert-in-a-glass:

• 2 ounces RumChata – For that boozy, creamy goodness.
• 8–12 ounces chilled root beer – The fizzy base.
• 2–3 scoops vanilla ice cream – The creamy centerpiece.
• Whipped cream (optional) – For garnish and flair.
• Maraschino cherry (optional) – For that classic float look.

Don’t want to run to the store? Here are some substitutions:

• No RumChata? Try Bailey’s Vanilla Cinnamon or homemade horchata with rum.
• No root beer? Experiment with cream soda (sweeter) or cola (bolder).
• Dairy-free? Coconut milk ice cream works beautifully.

Tools You’ll Need

You don’t need a cocktail shaker or any fancy bar tools to make a RumChata Root Beer Float, but having the right gear can make a big difference. Think of it like setting the stage—presentation matters, especially for something this nostalgic and indulgent.

Here’s what you’ll want on hand:

• Tall mug or soda fountain glass – Glass helps showcase the layers and foam.
• Ice cream scoop – A sturdy one to get those perfect rounded scoops.
• Long-handled spoon – For scooping ice cream and reaching the bottom.
• Thick straw – Optional, but fun for sipping the foamy top.
• Whipped cream canister or piping bag – For that picture-perfect finish.

Bonus points if you serve your float with a striped paper straw or a vintage-style glass—it’s all about the details when you’re recreating a classic with a boozy twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to make this dreamy float a reality? Here’s how to build it, step by step, so you get the perfect texture, flavor, and look every single time.

1. Chill Your Glass
Start by placing your mug or float glass in the freezer for about 10–15 minutes. Why? A chilled glass helps the ice cream stay solid longer, prevents too much foam from forming too fast, and makes everything feel more refreshing.

2. Scoop the Ice Cream
Drop in 2 to 3 generous scoops of vanilla ice cream. Don’t be shy—this is the star of the show. If you’re feeling wild, add a small scoop of flavored ice cream (like cinnamon or caramel swirl) for extra depth.

3. Add the Root Beer Slowly
Pour 8 to 12 ounces of chilled root beer slowly over the ice cream. Do it in stages—pour a little, let the foam settle, then pour a bit more. If you go too fast, it’ll overflow and get messy (unless you like that kind of chaos).

4. Gently Pour in the RumChata
Now comes the grown-up magic. Carefully pour 2 ounces of RumChata over the top. Do this after the root beer to prevent curdling. Pouring it too early or too fast can cause separation due to the mix of dairy and carbonation.

5. Garnish & Serve
Top it off with a swirl of whipped cream and a bright red maraschino cherry if you’re feeling fancy. Stick in a straw, grab a spoon, and enjoy immediately. These floats are best served fresh when the foam is high and the ice cream still firm.

Garnishing Like a Pro
Garnish isn’t just for looks—it adds texture, taste, and a touch of theater. In the world of root beer floats, presentation turns a simple drink into a full experience.

Here are some topping ideas:

• Classic whipped cream swirl – Sweet, creamy, and picture-perfect.
• Maraschino cherry – The retro crown jewel.
• Crushed cinnamon graham crackers – Adds crunch and spice.
• Caramel drizzle – Enhances the RumChata’s cinnamon-vanilla tones.
• Mini cookie or waffle stick – Great for scooping ice cream.

Want to make it Instagram-worthy? Dust a little cinnamon or nutmeg over the whipped cream and boom—bar-worthy presentation.

Alcohol Content & Responsible Drinking
This float may taste like a dessert, but don’t forget—it’s still a cocktail. Each float contains about 2 ounces of RumChata, which clocks in at 13.75% ABV. It’s not a super strong drink, but it’s definitely not a milkshake either.

A few tips to keep things fun and responsible:

• Limit yourself to 1–2 floats if you’re new to RumChata.
• Serve with food—this helps slow down alcohol absorption.
• Keep it out of kids’ reach, especially at parties.
• Label your adult-only drinks if you’re doing a DIY float bar.

Remember, this isn’t about getting buzzed—it’s about enjoying a unique treat with a touch of indulgence.

How to Make a Lighter Version
Not in the mood for ice cream but still want that creamy soda vibe? No problem. The RumChata Root Beer Float can easily be transformed into a lighter cocktail by ditching the ice cream altogether.

Here’s how to do it:

• Fill a highball glass with ice.
• Add 1 part RumChata to 3 parts chilled root beer.
• Stir gently and serve with a straw.

It’s cool, fizzy, and still has that creamy cinnamon-vanilla finish—just without the extra calories and richness of ice cream. It’s perfect for warm-weather sipping or when you want the flavor without the full dessert.

Flavor Variations to Try
The classic RumChata Root Beer Float is already delicious, but why stop there? If you love to experiment, there are tons of creative twists you can try to customize your float and wow your guests—or just treat yourself to something new.

Here are a few mouthwatering variations:

1. Chocolate Lovers’ Float

• Swap the vanilla ice cream for chocolate ice cream.
• Drizzle some chocolate syrup inside the glass before building your float.
• Finish with chocolate shavings on top of the whipped cream.
  It’s like a boozy root beer brownie in a glass.

2. Cinnamon Toast Crunch Float

• Add a sprinkle of crushed Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal on top.
• Use cinnamon swirl ice cream for extra flavor.
• Dust a little cinnamon powder over the whipped cream.
  This one is perfect if you’re a fan of breakfast-for-dessert vibes.

3. RumChata Cream Soda Float

• Replace the root beer with cream soda.
• Keep the vanilla ice cream and RumChata.
• Add a dash of vanilla extract for an extra punch.
  Sweeter and more mellow—ideal for those who find root beer too bold.

4. Spiked Mocha Float

• Add ½ oz of coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa) with the RumChata.
• Use coffee ice cream or mocha swirl instead of vanilla.
• Root beer + coffee + RumChata = unexpected harmony.
  It’s like your favorite iced coffee met a root beer float at happy hour.

5. Holiday Float

• Add a splash of peppermint schnapps or a dash of nutmeg.
• Top with crushed candy canes or gingerbread crumbs.
• Use eggnog ice cream if you can find it.
  Perfect for cozy winter nights or holiday parties with a twist.

Making It Kid-Friendly (Without RumChata)
Want to include the little ones or non-drinkers in the fun? You absolutely can! Just leave out the RumChata and focus on making a super exciting, colorful, and creamy float.

Here’s how to make a kid-friendly version:

• Start with the same vanilla ice cream base.
• Pour over chilled root beer slowly, letting the foam rise.
• Add fun garnishes like rainbow sprinkles, gummy worms, or colored sugar.
• Serve with a funky straw and a long spoon.

Want to get even more creative? Add a flavored syrup drizzle (like caramel or strawberry) or mix in colored soda for a themed party float. The possibilities are endless, and the kids will love it.

Party-Ready Presentation Tips
Planning a gathering? Floats are perfect for parties because they’re interactive, customizable, and super nostalgic. Instead of making them one by one, why not set up a DIY float bar?

Here’s what you need for a next-level float station:

• Ice cream tubs – Vanilla, chocolate, and cinnamon options.
• Multiple sodas – Root beer, cream soda, cola.
• Mini bottles of RumChata – Or a chilled pitcher for easy pouring.
• Fun toppings – Whipped cream, cherries, sprinkles, crushed cookies, syrups.
• Glassware options – Mugs, mason jars, plastic float cups with lids.

Set everything up buffet-style with signs labeling each item. Include a little card that says “Add RumChata LAST” to prevent curdling. It’s an instant hit at birthdays, backyard cookouts, or holiday parties.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

So here’s the deal—RumChata Root Beer Floats are best enjoyed immediately. The magic is in the fresh foam, the slowly melting ice cream, and that just-poured sparkle. But if you’re hosting or prepping, a few tricks can help keep things smooth:

• Chill your glasses and root beer ahead of time—cold ingredients prevent everything from melting too fast.
• Pre-scoop ice cream into individual cups or muffin tins and freeze them. Just pop them into glasses when it’s go time.
• Pre-measure RumChata into shot glasses or small bottles so guests can pour easily.

Can you freeze a RumChata float? Technically, yes—but it’ll become more of a boozy ice cream slush. Great for scooping, not so much for sipping. For the best texture, assemble right before serving.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Making a RumChata Root Beer Float is simple—but a few small missteps can throw off the experience. Let’s break down what to watch for:

1. Pouring RumChata Before Root Beer
This is the biggest mistake. Because RumChata is cream-based, adding root beer after it can cause curdling. Always pour the root beer first, then the RumChata gently on top.

2. Using Warm Root Beer
Room-temperature soda will melt the ice cream instantly and ruin the foam. Keep your root beer chilled—ideally between 35–40°F.

3. Overfilling the Glass
It’s tempting to go big, but floats foam up quickly. Leave at least 1–2 inches of space at the top of the glass to avoid messy overflows.

4. Scooping Rock-Hard Ice Cream
If your ice cream is straight out of the deep freeze, it’ll be hard to scoop and won’t blend well with the soda. Let it sit for 5 minutes before scooping for perfect texture.

5. Skipping the Straw or Spoon
This isn’t a chug-it-down kind of drink. It’s a slow-sip-and-scoop situation. Always serve with both a straw and a spoon for the full experience.

Health and Nutritional Info
This isn’t exactly health food—but it’s worth knowing what’s in your glass. A standard RumChata Root Beer Float clocks in at about 360–450 calories, depending on the size and toppings.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Ingredient	Calories
2 oz RumChata	140
2 scoops vanilla ice cream	250
8 oz root beer	90
Whipped cream + cherry	20–40
Total (approx.)	360–450

Want to lighten it up?

• Use light or low-fat ice cream.
• Swap root beer for diet or zero-calorie versions.
• Skip the whipped cream, or use light whipped topping.

There are even non-dairy ice cream options (like almond milk or oat milk-based) that work great for lactose-intolerant float lovers.

Conclusion RumChata Root Beer Floats

The RumChata Root Beer Float is more than just a drink—it’s a creamy, fizzy, grown-up twist on a childhood classic. Whether you’re sipping one on a summer night or serving them up at a party, it’s the kind of treat that instantly brings smiles. With just a few ingredients and a bit of fun, you’ve got a cocktail that’s comforting, exciting, and totally irresistible. And with all the variations and tips we covered, you can make it your own every single time. So chill your glass, scoop your ice cream, and get pouring—because dessert just got a serious upgrade.

FAQs RumChata Root Beer Floats

1. Can I use a different liqueur instead of RumChata?
Yes! You can substitute Bailey’s Vanilla Cinnamon, Kahlúa for a coffee twist, or even spiced rum with cream. Just be mindful of curdling with carbonated sodas.

2. Does the float curdle if it sits too long?
It can, especially if RumChata is added before the soda or left out in the heat. Pour the ingredients in the right order and enjoy it fresh to avoid separation.

3. What’s the best root beer for this recipe?
IBC, A&W, and Boylan’s are top choices. Look for one that’s not too sweet or overly herbal to keep the balance just right with the RumChata.

4. Can I make this in a blender?
You can blend the ice cream and RumChata for a milkshake-style drink, but you’ll lose the signature fizz and foam. Great for frozen float lovers, though!

5. How can I make a dairy-free version?
Use coconut milk ice cream, almond-based whipped topping, and pair with dairy-free root beer. Note: RumChata contains dairy, so substitute with vegan horchata and a splash of rum.

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