The Quintessential Root Beer Float Shake: A Nostalgic Elixir

There are certain flavors that, for me, are inextricably linked to childhood summers and carefree afternoons. The fizzy, sweet embrace of root beer, the creamy chill of vanilla ice cream – it’s a pairing that transcends simple dessert and becomes a memory, a feeling. I remember one sweltering July day, digging through my grandmother’s freezer, hoping for a treat. She surprised me with a concoction she’d whipped up herself: a root beer float, but transformed into an impossibly thick, sippable marvel. That first gulp was pure magic, a velvety explosion of familiar flavors that instantly transported me to a place of pure, unadulterated joy. It was more than just a drink; it was liquid nostalgia, and it’s a taste I’ve chased ever since.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Servings: 1
• Yield: 1 large shake
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

This recipe celebrates the pure, unadulterated pleasure of its core components. Simplicity is key here, allowing the distinct flavors of root beer and ice cream to shine.

• 4 scoops Breyers Rootbeer Float ice cream
• 8-10 ounces A & W Root Beer

Equipment Needed

For this simple yet sublime creation, you won’t need an elaborate setup. A good blender is your most important tool.

• Blender

Instructions

Crafting this classic treat is less about intricate technique and more about achieving the perfect balance and texture. It’s a wonderfully straightforward process that yields incredibly satisfying results.

1. Begin by adding the 4 scoops of Breyers Rootbeer Float ice cream to your blender. Ensure the ice cream is well-frozen for the best shake consistency.
2. Next, pour in 8 to 10 ounces of A & W Root Beer over the ice cream. The amount of root beer you use will directly influence the thickness of your shake. Start with 8 ounces for a thicker shake and add more, up to 10 ounces, if you prefer a slightly thinner consistency.
3. Secure the lid on your blender.
4. Blend the ingredients until they are smooth and well combined. You’re aiming for a creamy, homogenous mixture that has the luscious texture of a milkshake.
5. Taste the shake and adjust the consistency as needed. If it’s too thick, add a splash more root beer and blend again. If you desire an even thicker shake, you can add another scoop of ice cream and blend.
6. Once you’ve achieved your desired consistency, pour the shake into a tall glass.

Expert Tips & Tricks

While the recipe is wonderfully simple, a few seasoned touches can elevate your Root Beer Float Shake from good to absolutely divine.

• Ice Cream Temperature is Crucial: For the thickest, most indulgent shake, make sure your Breyers Rootbeer Float ice cream is thoroughly frozen. If it’s a bit soft, your shake will be thinner and less satisfying. Consider giving it a good 15-20 minutes back in the freezer if it feels too soft before scooping.
• Root Beer Selection Matters: While the recipe calls for A & W Root Beer, the brand you choose can subtly impact the final flavor. A & W offers a classic, balanced root beer profile that pairs beautifully with the ice cream. Experimenting with other brands could lead to delightful variations.
• The “Whirl” Technique: When blending, avoid over-blending, which can melt the ice cream and create a frothy, less desirable texture. A few short pulses or a quick blend until just combined is usually sufficient. You want that rich, creamy mouthfeel.
• Adjusting Sweetness: The sweetness of this shake comes from the ice cream and root beer. If you find you prefer a less sweet beverage, use the lower end of the root beer range (8 ounces). Conversely, for a sweeter treat, opt for the higher end (10 ounces) or even a touch more.
• Garnish for Grandeur: While not strictly part of the core recipe, a simple garnish can transform this shake into something truly special. A dollop of whipped cream, a maraschino cherry, or even a sprinkle of chocolate shavings can add a touch of elegance.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Root Beer Float Shake is best enjoyed immediately after preparation. Its creamy texture is at its peak when freshly blended.

• Serving: Pour the shake into a chilled, tall glass. For an extra special presentation, garnish with a swirl of whipped cream and a bright red maraschino cherry. A long spoon and a wide straw are the perfect accompaniments.
• Storage: This shake is not designed for storage. The ice cream will melt, and the carbonation from the root beer will dissipate, diminishing its delightful texture and fizz. If you find yourself with a small amount of leftover shake, it can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for a very short period (no more than an hour) to firm up slightly, but the quality will be significantly compromised. It’s truly a “make it and drink it” kind of pleasure.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	93.7 kcal
Calories from Fat
Total Fat	0 g	0%
Saturated Fat	0 g	0%
Cholesterol	0 mg	0%
Sodium	29.7 mg	1%
Total Carbohydrate	24.2 g	8%
Dietary Fiber	0 g	0%
Sugars	24.2 g	96%
Protein	0 g	0%

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and quantities used.

Variations & Substitutions

While the classic Breyers and A & W combination is hard to beat, there’s always room for a bit of culinary exploration.

• Dairy-Free Delight: For a dairy-free version, experiment with a good quality vegan vanilla or even a specific vegan root beer ice cream. Plant-based milks like almond or oat milk can be used to thin the shake if needed, though the carbonation of the root beer usually provides sufficient liquidity.
• Boozy Float: For an adult-friendly twist, a shot of bourbon or rum can be added to the blender before mixing. This transforms the childhood classic into a sophisticated evening treat.
• Flavor Boosters: Consider adding a splash of vanilla extract for an intensified vanilla flavor, or a tiny pinch of cinnamon for a warming spice note that complements the root beer’s botanicals. A tablespoon of chocolate syrup can also be a decadent addition.
• Alternative Root Beers: As mentioned in the tips, exploring different brands of root beer can yield subtly different flavor profiles. Some root beers are spicier, some are sweeter, and some have more pronounced anise or sassafras notes.
• Ice Cream Alternatives: While the specific Breyers Rootbeer Float ice cream is ideal for capturing that distinct flavor, if it’s unavailable, you could try combining high-quality vanilla bean ice cream with a splash of root beer extract mixed directly into the ice cream before blending, or simply use a very good vanilla ice cream and your preferred root beer.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this shake ahead of time?
A: No, this shake is best enjoyed immediately. Blending and sitting will cause the ice cream to melt and the carbonation to go flat, negatively impacting the texture.

Q: What happens if I use more root beer?
A: Using more root beer will result in a thinner, more drinkable shake. Use the lower amount for a thicker, spoonable consistency and the higher amount for a more pourable beverage.

Q: Can I use a different brand of root beer?
A: Absolutely. While A & W is a classic choice, other brands can be used, though they may impart slightly different flavor nuances.

Q: Why is the Breyers Rootbeer Float ice cream special?
A: This particular ice cream is formulated to have the distinct flavor profile of root beer already infused into the creamy vanilla base, making it ideal for a root beer float-themed shake.

Q: How can I make my shake thicker?
A: Ensure your ice cream is very well-frozen. You can also use less root beer, or even add an extra scoop of ice cream to the blend.

Final Thoughts

The Root Beer Float Shake is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to recapture a sense of simple, unadulterated joy. It’s a testament to how humble ingredients, when brought together with a touch of nostalgia, can create something truly magical. Whether you’re revisiting cherished childhood memories or discovering this classic for the first time, I encourage you to embrace its easy charm. Pour yourself a glass, perhaps with a good book or in the company of loved ones, and savor every creamy, fizzy sip. It’s a little taste of happiness, ready in minutes.