Save
Richly nostalgic and packed with flavor, this rebel float recipe celebrates the spirit of old-school soda fountains while letting you customize bold flavors like creamy peanut butter or juicy black cherry. It is ideal for sunny afternoons and easy to serve as an impressive retro dessert or playful drink at any gathering.
The first time I made these floats, I went with peanut butter and was blown away by how much friends raved about the invention. Now it is a must each summer when my family comes over and nostalgia fills the kitchen.
Ingredients
- Whole milk: for a creamy ice cream base that churns up extra smooth select the freshest you can find
- Heavy cream: adds luscious body and silkiness to the homemade ice cream higher fat content creates the richest results
- Granulated sugar: sweetens both the ice cream and soda base evenly using pure cane sugar avoids off-flavors
- Vanilla extract: deepens the cream flavor in the ice cream a quality real vanilla gives the best aroma
- Salt: balances the sweetness and brings out every flavor in both the ice cream and the soda
- Water: the starting point of the homemade soda syrup filtered or spring water gives cleanest taste
- Black cherry juice: for fruity floats with a true soda fountain vibe look for pure cold-pressed juice
- Creamy peanut butter: offers a nutty modern twist pick a natural or no-stir peanut butter for smoothest results
- Lemon juice: brightens the black cherry soda base choose fresh-squeezed if possible
- Soda water: brings the signature fizz and lift always chill well before pouring
- Ice cubes: optional but keep everything icy for hot days
- Whipped cream maraschino cherries or chopped peanuts: for garnishing and a touch of whimsy try to get real whipped cream for best results
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Ice Cream:
- In a large bowl combine whole milk heavy cream sugar vanilla extract and a pinch of salt whisking until the sugar completely dissolves for the smoothest possible base chill the mixture for a faster churn if you have time
- Churn and Freeze the Ice Cream:
- Transfer the mixture into your ice cream maker and churn it according to the frame’s instructions until thick and creamy then scoop into a container and freeze for at least three hours so it sets firm and is easy to scoop
- Make the Soda Base:
- In a small saucepan combine water and the granulated sugar place over medium heat and stir gently until the sugar dissolves into a clear syrup to prevent graininess make sure the liquid never boils vigorously
- Infuse the Soda Flavor:
- For black cherry pour in black cherry juice lemon juice and salt then simmer gently for a couple minutes to meld the flavors for peanut butter whisk in peanut butter and salt and allow to simmer until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened then cool the syrup completely and chill
- Assemble the Rebel Float:
- In tall glasses spoon two or three tablespoons of the chilled soda base followed by a handful of ice cubes if you like pour in chilled soda water until the glass is three-quarters full and stir slowly to blend
- Top and Garnish:
- Add two big scoops of your homemade ice cream to each glass then finish boldly with whipped cream a cherry for black cherry floats or chopped peanuts for peanut butter floats serve immediately with both a straw and a spoon to enjoy every layer
Save
I absolutely love the burst of real black cherry in this—one taste takes me straight back to summers at my grandma’s house where we made floats with whatever fruit was ripe. My family gathers around the table for a little float competition every July and this recipe is always the biggest hit.
Storage Tips
Store extra ice cream in an airtight container in your freezer for up to two weeks just press plastic wrap to the surface to prevent ice crystals forming. Homemade soda base will keep well in a lidded jar in the refrigerator for about one week. Assemble floats just before serving so the fizz and scoop stay at their best.
Ingredient Substitutions
For dairy free or vegan floats you can swap the milk and cream for canned coconut milk and a favorite plant-based alternative like oat cream. Try swapping black cherry juice with any berry juice or fresh fruit puree. Almond butter or cashew butter is a great alternative if peanut allergies are a concern or for a slightly milder flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve rebel floats at retro themed birthday parties or alongside a summer cookout. They pair deliciously with shortbread cookies or salty snacks. Layer with extra fruit or switch up toppings—like chocolate sauce or a dusting of cinnamon—for a new twist every time.
Save
Understanding the Rebel Float
Rebel floats draw inspiration from American soda fountains of the early 1900s where young people flocked for sweet treats with a little flair. This recipe’s playful use of unconventional flavors like peanut butter or tangy black cherry delivers both a dose of nostalgia and a discovery for adventurous palates.
Recipe FAQs
- → What distinguishes a rebel float from a classic float?
A rebel float features unique soda flavors like black cherry or peanut butter, created from scratch, which contrast with standard floats that use pre-made sodas.
- → Can I make the ice cream without an ice cream maker?
Yes, pour the ice cream mixture into a shallow container, freeze, and stir every 30 minutes until creamy for a similar result.
- → Is there a vegan version available?
Substitute dairy ingredients with coconut milk and plant-based creams. Use plant-based milk for the soda base as needed.
- → What other soda flavors can I try?
Experiment with syrups like salted caramel, espresso, or mixed berries to personalize your float.
- → How should I serve rebel floats?
Serve immediately after assembling in tall glasses, garnished with whipped cream, cherries, or chopped peanuts.
- → What is the best way to store homemade soda base?
Keep the soda base refrigerated in a sealed container for up to a week for freshness and convenience.