Satisfy Your Cravings with Delicious Root Beer Float Recipe
Are you in the mood for a sweet and refreshing alcoholic beverage that reminds you of childhood memories? Then, you might be interested in my Root Beer Float (Shot) Recipe! As summer is approaching, this cocktail can be the perfect addition to any backyard barbecue or pool party.
This recipe provides a modern twist on the classic root beer float, as it combines creamy vanilla ice cream with chilled alcoholic root beer. Additionally, it is incredibly easy to make, requiring only a few ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen or pantry.
Some recipes suggest making a root beer float with non-alcoholic root beer, but what’s the fun in that? With this recipe, you can indulge in both sweetness and a little bit of alcohol. Whether you are entertaining guests or treating yourself, this recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
So, let’s get started on creating the perfect Root Beer Float (Shot)!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Look, I know that when you hear the words “root beer float,” you might think of something sweet and innocent. But let me tell you, this root beer float shot recipe might just be the best thing you’ll ever put in your mouth.
Imagine the creamy smoothness of vanilla ice cream, paired with the fizzy tang of a cold root beer, all wrapped up in a sinfully delicious alcoholic kick. This shot is like a carnival ride for your taste buds, with every flavor sensation blending together to create a taste explosion that you won’t forget any time soon.
But here’s the thing that sets this recipe apart – it’s completely customizable. Want to make it even more boozy? Add some Irish cream or cinnamon whiskey to the mix. Want to impress your friends with your bartending skills? Swap out the plain old root beer for homemade or craft root beer, and add a dollop of whipped cream on top for good measure.
Trust me, whether you’re looking for a fun party trick or just something delicious to sip on after a long day, this root beer float shot recipe is sure to fit the bill. So go ahead – give it a try, and see what all the fuss is about.
Ingredient List

Here is what you will need for a Root Beer Float Shot:
- 1 part hard root beer
- 1 part vanilla vodka, chilled
- 1 part Irish cream
- Whipped cream for topping, if desired
Alternatively, if you prefer to make it a Root Beer Float Bomb Shot, these are the ingredients you’ll need:
- 1 part hard root beer
- 1 scoop of vanilla ice cream
- 1 part vodka, chilled
- Whipped cream for topping, if desired
For those who want to try something different, here are more variations of the recipe you can add to your arsenal:
- Cinnamon Whiskey Root Beer Float Shot: 2 parts hard root beer, 1 part cinnamon whiskey
- Salted Caramel Root Beer Float Shot: 2 parts hard root beer, 1 part salted caramel vodka
- French Vanilla Root Beer Float Shot: 2 parts hard root beer, 1 part Kahlúa French Vanilla liqueur
If you’re planning a party and want to serve enough shots for everyone, you can use these measurements:
- Root Beer: 2 cups
- Vanilla Vodka: 2 cups
- Irish Cream: 2 cups
- Whipped Cream for topping
To make it a perfect dessert drink for everyone’s taste buds, prepare these ingredients:
- A&W Root Beer (or any brand of your choice):12 cans
- Vanilla Ice Cream:3 scoops per glass
- Whipped Cream:4 cups
The Recipe How-To
Now that we’ve gone over the reasons why you’ll love this Root Beer Float (Shot) Recipe, let’s dive into the how-to. Get ready because it’s really quite simple and you’ll be enjoying a delicious float shot in no time!
Ingredients:
Here’s what you’ll need to make one Root Beer Float (Shot):
- 1 part hard root beer
- 1 part vanilla ice cream
- 1/2 part Irish cream liqueur
Instructions:
- Begin by chilling all the ingredients; You can pour the hard root beer into a tall glass and let it sit in the freezer for 30-60 minutes.
- Next, place 3 scoops of vanilla ice cream into a blender or mixing cup.
- Add the Irish cream liqueur over the ice cream.
- Mix until blended.
- Then, pour enough hard root beer into a shot glass to fill it 2/3 of the way full.
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream to each shot glass.
- Top each shot with whipped cream.
Serve chilled.
Cheers!
Substitutions and Variations
Now it’s time to get creative with your Root Beer Float (Shot) recipe! There are plenty of substitutions and variations that you can make to this classic beverage. Here are some ideas to get you started:
– Swap out the vanilla ice cream for a different flavor, such as chocolate or strawberry.
– Use a different type of alcoholic root beer, such as hard root beer or homemade root beer.
– For an adult twist, add a shot of Irish cream or cinnamon whiskey to your Root Beer Float (Shot).
– Make it a Float Bomb! Simply layer the ingredients in a shot glass with whipped cream and then drop it into a glass of root beer. Take the shot quickly before it explodes in the glass!
– To make alcoholic jello shots, mix 1 cup chilled root beer with 2/3 cup vodka and 2/3 cup unflavored gelatin. Pour the mixture into shot glasses and chill until set.
– Try serving your Root Beer Float (Shot) as a float cocktail by pouring the ingredients over ice in a tall glass.
– Use A&W Root Beer or another brand for variety.
– For those who love pudding shots and want an extra dose of dessert goodness, try making a vanilla pudding shot that is flavored with 1/4 cup salted caramel vodka and 3/4 cup milk. Mix together until smooth and pour into shot glasses. Serve with whipped cream on top!
– For those who prefer less boozy drinks, try making a non-alcoholic version of this recipe by skipping the alcohol entirely and simply adding a few scoops of vanilla ice cream to your favorite root beer.
Remember, these are just ideas to get you started. Feel free to experiment and come up with your own unique spin on the Root Beer Float (Shot) recipe!
Serving and Pairing
Ah, serving a root beer float (shot) is akin to the grand unveiling of a beautiful painting. Done well, it’s a treat for the eyes and taste buds at any party or gathering. For this recipe, I recommend serving chilled shot glasses filled with the float bomb shot. Make sure you add ice cream and whipped cream to each shot glass right before serving, so that your guests can enjoy the creamy goodness that comes with every sip.
As for pairing, a root beer float (shot) can be enjoyed on its own, but if you’re feeling festive, consider pairing it with some warm cookies or brownies for contrast in temperatures. And of course, don’t forget the classic pairings of burgers and fries or pizza for a fun and unexpected twist!
Looking to make things more interesting? Try infusing some creativity into your float by switching up the flavors. Adding a scoop or two of vanilla bean ice cream, for example, can add an extra dimension of flavor to your beverage. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, try replacing the root beer with other carbonated sodas such as Coke or Sprite for an exciting twist.
Overall, don’t be afraid to mix up the serving and pairing options depending on the occasion!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Once you have made the Root Beer Float (Shot) Recipe, you might want to enjoy it at a later time or even the next day. Here are some tips for make-ahead, storing, and reheating:
Make-ahead:
The best way to make the Root Beer Float (Shot) recipe ahead of time is by preparing each component separately. Keep your root beer and alcoholic mixtures in sealed containers in the refrigerator. Also, pre-scoop your vanilla ice cream into serving glasses or shot glasses and freeze them. Doing so will save you time when it comes to serving this treat, and you won’t have to worry about the ice cream melting.
Storing:
If you have any leftovers, which is unlikely, store them in an airtight container in the freezer. However, keep in mind that the quality of ice cream changes after taking it out of the freezer. The texture might become crystallized and icy. Therefore, it’s best to consume the treat right away.
Reheating:
It’s not recommended to reheat a Root Beer Float as it might ruin its taste and texture. Ice cream that has been reheated will become too soft, losing its creamy consistency. Instead, enjoy this treat at room temperature or chilled as per your preference.
In conclusion, preparing ahead of time can enhance your overall experience when indulging in these tasty Root Beer Float shots. By following these simple tips for storing and reheating stored shots, you will undoubtedly impress your guests with a delicious crowd-pleasing treat!
Tips for Perfect Results
Before you start making your Root Beer Float Shot Recipe, here are some important tips to ensure that you get the perfect results.
First, make sure to use chilled ingredients. Your vodka, root beer and vanilla ice cream should all be at a chilled temperature before you use them in the recipe. Keeping them in the fridge for an hour or so should do the trick.
Secondly, remember to add ice to your shot glasses. Adding ice will help to keep your shot cold and refreshing.
Thirdly, don’t forget the whipped cream! It’s the perfect topping for this shot recipe, giving it a creamy and indulgent taste.
Fourthly, try experimenting with different alcoholic root beers. You can opt for hard root beer instead of regular root beer to give it an extra kick.
Fifthly, consider using flavoured vodkas or schnapps if you want to add more depth of flavour. Cinnamon whiskey or salted caramel vodka are great options that work well with root beer and vanilla ice cream.
Lastly, presentation is key when serving up these shots. Make sure to use tall glasses or shot glasses and add a splash of colour with sprinkles or garnishes like cherries or chocolate.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to create the ultimate Root Beer Float Shot recipe that will impress all your guests at your next party or gathering.
FAQ
Now, let’s move on to the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section of this recipe article. As with any new recipe, there may be some doubts or uncertainties that you have, and we are here to help you. In this section, we will answer some common questions that people have had about this root beer float (shot) recipe. Read on for a better understanding of how to make the perfect alcoholic version of this classic summer dessert.
What alcohol goes best with root beer?
When it comes to choosing the spirit for your root beer drink, there are a few options to consider. Spiced rum is a good choice if you want to highlight the spices in the root beer. Vodka, on the other hand, will give you a drink with a kick that still allows the root beer flavor to come through. If you’re looking for a taste that reminds you of a root beer float, opt for vanilla vodka. And if you want to bring out the spiciness of the root beer even more, try using Fireball whiskey. Ultimately, the choice of spirit will depend on your personal preference and the flavor profile you want to achieve.
What goes first in a rootbeer float?
When it comes to creating the perfect root beer float, there’s a bit of controversy surrounding whether to add the ice cream or root beer first. To avoid a messy outcome and achieve the ideal creamy consistency, it’s best to add the ice cream into the mug first and then top it off with the fizzy root beer.
What is a root beer float made of?
Looking for a playful and creative way to serve drinks at a party? Consider setting up a DIY Root Beer Float bar! A classic favorite, root beer floats are made by pairing a scoop of vanilla ice cream with root beer. However, you can totally mix it up by offering a variety of ice cream flavors such as chocolate, Peanut Butter Cup, or Cookies and Cream. These treats are sometimes called “black cows” or “brown cows”, but no matter what you call them, they’re always a hit at parties!
Is a root beer float just ice cream and root beer?
If you’re looking for a tasty treat to beat the summer heat, why not try a root beer float? This classic drink is a delicious combination of root beer and vanilla ice cream that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, the root beer float (shot) recipe is a delicious and easy drink to make that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are looking for a new cocktail to try or want a fun twist on a classic drink, this recipe is sure to please. With its creamy vanilla ice cream, refreshing root beer, and alcoholic kick, it’s no wonder why this drink has remained popular over the years.
If you want to take your root beer float to the next level, I highly recommend trying out some of the substitutions and variations listed in this article. Experiment with different types of alcohol or ice cream flavors to find your perfect combination. And don’t be afraid to get creative with your serving and pairing choices – anything goes when it comes to this fun and versatile drink!
Whether you’re hosting a party, hanging out with friends or simply enjoying a quiet night in, making root beer float shots will most certainly add some excitement to your experience. So why not give it a try? With these simple tips and tricks, you’ll be able to whip up an amazing beverage that will impress anyone who tries it!

Root Beer Float (Shot) Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 ounce bailey's irish cream
- 1 ounce root beer Schnapps
Instructions
- Top Root Beer Schnapps with Irish Cream in a shot glass.
Your own notes
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Tony is an experienced chef, crafting delicious comfort food. He’s also an influential blogger, providing helpful recipes and tips on his website, taosburgersandbeer.com. As an expert in his field, he offers valuable advice to readers. His knowledge and creative recipes make it easy to cook exciting, flavorful dishes.