Sparkling Apple Cider Float: Creamy, Fizzy, and Fall Party-Perfect

This mocktail is what happens when your favorite fall dessert meets your go-to seasonal drink. The Sparkling Apple Cider Float is simple but festive — bubbly apple cider poured over creamy vanilla ice cream and topped with a sprinkle of warm spices. It’s like an autumn root beer float with a little cinnamon and cider magic mixed in.

Whether you’re hosting a fall party, planning a Thanksgiving dessert bar, or just want a no-fuss drink that makes everyone smile, this float delivers. And while it’s definitely kid-friendly, don’t be surprised if the adults go back for seconds — it’s that good.

Recipe Overview

Serves: 1 (but scales easily)
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes

This float is as easy as it gets — no blending, no measuring, just scoop, pour, and top. It’s quick enough for a weeknight treat but festive enough for your Thanksgiving table or fall hosting spread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Instantly festive: It’s bubbly, creamy, and feels like a celebration in a glass.
Kid-friendly but adult-approved: Sweet and nostalgic, but with enough fall flavor to make it feel elevated.
No special tools or prep required: You probably already have everything on hand.
Customizable: Use different flavors of cider, swap the ice cream, or add a drizzle on top.
Perfect for dessert or drink hour: It works as both — and that’s the beauty of it.

Tools You’ll Need

Tall glass or float glass — A clear glass lets the layers shine.
Ice cream scoop — For smooth, generous scoops.
Spoon or straw — Optional, but helpful for scooping or sipping.
Cinnamon shaker (optional) — For that picture-perfect finish.

Ingredients

1–2 scoops vanilla ice cream — Go classic or try Tillamook, Alden’s Organic, or a dairy-free oat milk vanilla like Planet Oat.
½–¾ cup sparkling apple cider — Martinelli’s is a great classic. You can also use Trader Joe’s Sparkling Apple Cider or a spiced version for extra flavor.
Pinch of ground cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice — For garnish.
Optional toppings:
- Whipped cream
- Caramel drizzle
- Crushed gingersnaps or graham crackers for crunch
- Cinnamon stick or apple slice for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Scoop the Ice Cream
Add 1–2 scoops of vanilla ice cream to a tall glass. You want enough room for the bubbles, so don’t overfill.

Step 2: Pour the Cider
Slowly pour sparkling apple cider over the ice cream. It’ll fizz and foam — that’s part of the fun. Let it settle for a second, then top it off.

Step 3: Add Toppings
Sprinkle with a pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice. Add whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or crushed cookies if you want to go extra festive.

Step 4: Serve Immediately
Float a cinnamon stick or apple slice on top for garnish, pop in a straw or spoon, and serve right away while it’s bubbly and cold.

Make-Ahead & Customization Tips

Hosting a party?
Pre-scoop the ice cream into glasses or jars and freeze them on a tray. Just pour the cider over when ready to serve.

Want it dairy-free?
Use coconut or oat milk-based vanilla ice cream — So Delicious and Oatly both make great options.

Make it spiced:
Use a spiced sparkling cider or add a dash of ground clove or nutmeg to the cinnamon.

Make it a bar:
Set out cider, ice cream, spices, and toppings so guests can build their own float. Great for Thanksgiving dessert or a fall movie night.

Perfect Pairings

This float is sweet, fizzy, and creamy — so it works best with snacks or treats that are either light, spiced, or crisp. Try it with:

Apple cider donuts or cinnamon sugar pretzels — For the ultimate fall dessert moment.
Mini pumpkin whoopie pies — The soft spice plays perfectly with the cool creaminess.
Cheddar apple crostini — A surprising savory bite that pairs with the sweet fizz.
Caramel popcorn or kettle corn — Great for fall movie nights or casual gatherings.

FAQs

Can I use regular apple cider instead of sparkling?
Yes — but you’ll lose the fizz. You can add a splash of club soda to still get the bubbly effect.

What’s the best kind of ice cream to use?
Classic vanilla works best, but cinnamon, butter pecan, or even pumpkin ice cream can be amazing too.

How do I avoid overflow when pouring the cider?
Pour slowly, let the bubbles settle, then top off. Make sure your glass has a little headroom for foam.

Can I make this ahead?
Scoop the ice cream into glasses and freeze. Don’t add the cider until right before serving.

Take a Sip

The Sparkling Apple Cider Float is one of those mocktails that’s just plain fun — nostalgic, festive, and totally satisfying. It’s easy to make, impossible not to love, and the perfect mix of drink and dessert in a single glass.

Whether you’re setting up a float bar for Thanksgiving, surprising your kids with something sweet, or just treating yourself on a chilly evening — this one hits every time. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll keep coming back to all season long.

Try it your way — add whipped cream, drizzle caramel, or keep it simple and classic. And when you do, don’t forget to save or pin it — because this is fall mocktail gold.