Lemon Lime Ice Cream Float Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Combines sweet and tart flavors for a deliciously balanced dessert.
  • Ready in just a few minutes with simple ingredients.
  • Versatile: customize it with your favorite garnishes or ice cream flavors.
  • Perfect for entertaining or enjoying solo as a cool treat.
  • Naturally gluten-free and easy to make dairy-free by swapping ice cream.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • 2 scoops vanilla ice cream (or lemon-lime ice cream for extra zing)
  • 1 cup lemon-lime soda (like Sprite or 7UP), chilled
  • 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
  • Lemon and lime slices for garnish
  • Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Directions

  1. Prepare the Glass:
    Chill your serving glass in the freezer for about 5 minutes to keep your float cold and refreshing.
  2. Add Ice Cream:
    Place 2 scoops of vanilla ice cream into the chilled glass.
  3. Mix the Citrus:
    In a small bowl, combine the lemon juice and lime juice. Pour the mixture over the ice cream in the glass.
  4. Pour the Soda:
    Slowly pour the chilled lemon-lime soda into the glass, letting it bubble and fizz as it interacts with the ice cream.
  5. Garnish and Serve:
    Add lemon and lime slices and a sprig of mint on top. Serve immediately with a straw and a long spoon.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 1 float
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: None
  • Total Time: 5 minutes

Variations

  • Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk ice cream or a dairy-free vanilla alternative.
  • Extra Citrus Kick: Swap vanilla ice cream for lemon or lime sorbet for more tanginess.
  • Alcoholic Version: Add a splash of citrus vodka or limoncello for an adult twist.
  • Berry Infusion: Toss in a few fresh raspberries or strawberries for a fruity burst.
  • Herbal Touch: Add a sprig of rosemary or thyme for a subtle aromatic note.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: This recipe is best enjoyed immediately. Ice cream floats lose their fizz and texture when stored.
  • Reheating: Not applicable, as this is a chilled dessert.

FAQs

1. Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best made fresh to enjoy the fizz and creamy texture. You can pre-squeeze the lemon and lime juice to save a few minutes.

2. Can I use diet soda?

Yes, diet lemon-lime soda works fine, though it may slightly alter the sweetness.

3. What other ice cream flavors work well?

Lemon, lime, or even coconut-flavored ice cream pairs wonderfully with this float.

4. Can I skip the fresh lemon and lime juice?

While the soda alone works, fresh lemon and lime juice add a burst of natural flavor.

5. Is there a sugar-free version?

Use sugar-free soda and opt for a low-sugar or sugar-free ice cream to make it sugar-free.

6. How do I keep the drink fizzy for longer?

Add the soda right before serving and avoid stirring too much.

7. Can I make this for a party?

Yes, serve the components in a DIY float bar where guests can assemble their floats.

8. Can I use sparkling water instead of soda?

Absolutely, but you may want to add a bit of sweetener or flavored syrup.

9. What’s the best way to garnish?

Fresh mint, lemon, and lime slices work well, but you can also use edible flowers for a festive look.

10. Is this suitable for kids?

Yes, it’s a fun and safe treat for kids when made with non-alcoholic ingredients.

Conclusion

The Lemon Lime Ice Cream Float is a simple, refreshing dessert that delivers big on flavor and fun. With its fizzy soda, creamy ice cream, and tangy citrus accents, it’s the ultimate way to cool down and indulge. Whether you make it for a quick treat or as a party centerpiece, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it today and enjoy the perfect balance of creamy and zesty in every sip!


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Lemon Lime Ice Cream Float Recipe


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  • Author: Isabella
  • Total Time: 5 minutes
  • Yield: 1 float
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Enjoy a refreshing Lemon Lime Ice Cream Float that combines tangy citrus flavors with creamy vanilla ice cream. Perfect for warm days or as a light dessert, this easy recipe is naturally gluten-free, customizable, and ready in just 5 minutes.


Ingredients

  • 2 scoops vanilla ice cream (or lemon-lime ice cream for extra zing)
  • 1 cup lemon-lime soda (like Sprite or 7UP), chilled
  • 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
  • Lemon and lime slices for garnish
  • Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Glass: Chill your serving glass in the freezer for about 5 minutes.
  2. Add Ice Cream: Place 2 scoops of vanilla ice cream into the chilled glass.
  3. Mix the Citrus: Combine the lemon and lime juice in a small bowl. Pour the mixture over the ice cream in the glass.
  4. Pour the Soda: Slowly pour the chilled lemon-lime soda into the glass, letting it bubble and fizz.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Add lemon and lime slices, and a sprig of mint if desired. Serve immediately with a straw and spoon.

Notes

  • For a dairy-free option, substitute coconut milk ice cream or a non-dairy vanilla alternative.
  • Enhance the tanginess by using lemon or lime sorbet instead of vanilla ice cream.
  • This recipe is best made fresh for optimal fizz and creaminess.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American

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