Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups vanilla ice cream, slightly softened
- 1/2 cup whole milk, cold
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/4 cup crushed candy canes, plus extra for garnish
- Whipped cream, for topping
- 2–3 drops red food coloring (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a blender, combine the slightly softened vanilla ice cream, cold whole milk, peppermint extract, and 1/4 cup of the crushed candy canes. If desired, add 2-3 drops of red food coloring for a festive pink hue.
- Step 2: Blend all ingredients on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If the consistency is too thick, add an extra splash of milk; if too thin, add a small scoop of ice cream.
- Step 3: Pour the creamy peppermint mixture evenly into two chilled serving glasses.
- Step 4: Generously top each glass with a generous swirl of whipped cream, creating a fluffy "float" on top of the drink.
- Step 5: Garnish the whipped cream with the extra crushed candy canes and serve immediately with a straw and spoon.
Notes
- This festive float is truly a 'serve-immediately' delight; for the best texture and taste, avoid storing leftovers as the ice cream will melt and the candy canes will dissolve, losing that delightful crunch.
- Given its icy, creamy nature, this festive float is designed to be enjoyed cold; please do not attempt to reheat it, as its texture and flavors would be completely compromised.
- Serve these delightful floats in tall, chilled glasses to keep them extra frosty, perhaps alongside some festive cookies or as a refreshing counterpoint to a rich holiday meal.
- For the best texture and to prevent a watery float, ensure your vanilla ice cream is only *slightly* softened—just enough to blend smoothly—and use very cold whole milk; this ensures maximum creaminess without excessive melting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 large glass (approx. 470ml)
- Calories: 550
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 21g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Protein: 68g