RumChata Root Beer Float is the ultimate grown-up dessert cocktail that blends nostalgic charm with a creamy boozy twist. Imagine sipping on a classic root beer float—the sweet vanilla ice cream melting into the fizzy soda—but now, picture it elevated with a smooth, cinnamon-spiced kick from RumChata. This drink is everything you love about your childhood treat, but with a cozy adult upgrade. It’s rich, sweet, fizzy, and delightfully creamy—all in one glass.
With just a few simple ingredients—RumChata, chilled root beer, and a scoop or two of vanilla ice cream—you can create a dessert drink that feels indulgent yet effortless. Top it off with a swirl of whipped cream and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for that extra-special touch. Whether you’re serving it at a summer BBQ, a holiday gathering, or simply treating yourself after dinner, this cocktail is guaranteed to impress and satisfy.
What is RumChata?
RumChata is a smooth and creamy liqueur made with Caribbean rum, real dairy cream, and warm flavors of cinnamon and vanilla. Inspired by the traditional Mexican and Spanish drink horchata, this liqueur brings a comforting, spiced sweetness that’s perfect for dessert-style cocktails.
In this RumChata Root Beer Float, it works like magic—its flavor blends so beautifully with the root beer and vanilla ice cream that it tastes just like a classic float with a grown-up twist. The cinnamon notes in the RumChata even enhance the creamy base, making every sip taste like melted vanilla ice cream with a hint of spice. It’s the perfect combo of fizzy, creamy, and cozy!
Key Ingredients You’ll Need
RumChata:
This creamy liqueur is the star of the show. Made with Caribbean rum, cinnamon, and vanilla, it adds that signature warm, spiced flavor that makes this float feel like a cozy adult treat. If you’re making this for kids or prefer it alcohol-free, you can simply skip the RumChata—it’ll still taste delicious with root beer and ice cream!
Vanilla Ice Cream:
The ice cream gives the drink its classic creamy texture and turns your root beer into a dessert. You can use any store-bought brand or even homemade vanilla ice cream. Not only does it chill the drink, but it melts slightly to blend with the RumChata, making each sip smooth and rich.
Whipped Cream (optional):
A generous dollop of whipped cream on top adds extra creaminess and makes the float look extra fun and festive. You can whip up your own at home for a fresher taste, but store-bought whipped cream will work just fine too.
Maraschino Cherries (optional garnish):
Top off your float with a bright red cherry for that classic soda-fountain look. It’s optional, but it adds a splash of color and a little sweetness. And don’t forget a colorful striped straw—it makes everything more fun!
How to Make a RumChata Root Beer Float (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Start with the Ice Cream
Grab a tall glass and add 1–2 generous scoops of vanilla ice cream at the bottom. This creates the creamy base of your float and helps keep the drink nice and cold.
Step 2: Pour in the Root Beer
Slowly pour 1 cup (or a mini can) of chilled root beer over the ice cream. Go slow to avoid too much fizz and overflow. The soda will bubble up beautifully and start blending with the melting ice cream.
Step 3: Add the RumChata
Now pour in 2 oz of RumChata directly into the glass. It will swirl into the soda and ice cream, creating that rich, creamy, and spiced flavor that makes this float so unique. Gently stir if you want the flavors more blended—or leave it layered for a pretty effect.
Step 4: Top and Serve
Finish your float with a big dollop of whipped cream on top, then garnish with a maraschino cherry. For an extra fun touch, pop in a colorful striped straw. That’s it—your adult root beer float is ready to enjoy!
What’s the Best Root Beer for This Float?
For the richest and most classic flavor, A&W Root Beer is my go-to choice. It has that smooth, sweet, and slightly creamy taste that pairs perfectly with RumChata and vanilla ice cream.
That said, you don’t have to stick to one brand! Feel free to use whatever root beer you enjoy or have on hand. Other great options include Barq’s, which has a bit more bite and caffeine, or Hansen’s, known for a slightly more natural taste. Even store-brand root beer works just fine—especially if you’re making this for a crowd.
Just make sure your soda is well chilled before you pour—it helps create that frothy, fizzy magic when it hits the ice cream.
Fun Variations to Try
1. Make it Frozen:
Blend all the ingredients—RumChata, root beer, and vanilla ice cream—with a handful of ice for a creamy frozen float you can enjoy with a spoon or straw.
2. Boozier Version:
Add a splash of vanilla vodka or spiced rum along with the RumChata for an extra kick!
3. Non-Alcoholic Option:
Skip the RumChata entirely and just mix root beer with vanilla ice cream. Top with whipped cream and a cherry for a kid-friendly (and still delicious!) version.
4. Spiced Topping:
Sprinkle a dash of ground cinnamon or nutmeg over the whipped cream for an extra warm and cozy flavor.
5. Chocolate Twist:
Drizzle chocolate syrup inside the glass before adding the ingredients—it turns into a root beer float with a mocha-like flavor.
Conclusion
The RumChata Root Beer Float is one of those magical drinks that’s both fun and indulgent. It brings together the creamy joy of a childhood favorite with the sweet and spiced twist of RumChata—perfect for dessert, celebrations, or just treating yourself. It takes only minutes to make, but feels totally special. Once you try it, you’ll be looking for excuses to make it again and again!
Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best made fresh, since the ice cream melts quickly and the soda can go flat. Prep your ingredients in advance, then assemble when ready to serve.
Q2: What type of glass should I use?
A tall soda glass, milkshake glass, or even a mason jar works great! Just make sure it’s large enough to hold the foam from the soda.
Q3: Is RumChata very strong?
Nope! RumChata has a relatively low alcohol content (13.75%), so the drink is light and smooth—not overpowering.
Q4: Can I use diet root beer?
Yes! Diet root beer works just fine if you prefer a lower-sugar version.
Q5: What ice cream brand works best?
Any creamy vanilla ice cream will do, but look for “French vanilla” or “slow churned” for extra smoothness.
Q6: Can I make this without whipped cream?
Of course! It’s optional, but it does add a lovely creamy finish.
Q7: What can I use instead of RumChata?
Try Baileys Vanilla Cinnamon or even a homemade horchata with a splash of rum if you want a creative twist.
Q8: Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes! Just multiply the ingredients and prepare each float in individual glasses right before serving.
Q9: Is this more of a drink or dessert?
It’s both! It’s sweet, indulgent, and perfect for finishing a meal or sipping during a party.
Q10: Can I add other toppings?
Absolutely! Crushed cookies, caramel drizzle, or sprinkles can turn this into a full-on party drink.
RumChata Root Beer Floats
This is a classic drink with an adult twist. This RumChata Root Beer Float is an alcohol-infused float with a deliciously thick and creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup Rum Chata
- 1 scoop Vanilla Ice Cream
- 1 7.5 oz. mini can Root Beer
- Whipped Cream
- Cherries Stemmed, to top
Instructions
- In a tall glass, place the scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream, and pour the mini can of Root Beer over the Ice Cream. Add the Rumchata
- Chata, and stir to blend. Top with a generous amount of Whipped Cream, and place a Cherry on the top, with a Straw for sipping. Serve, and Enjoy!
Notes
For the perfect float, make sure your root beer is extra cold and pour it slowly over the ice cream to keep the fizz just right.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: servings 1
- Calories: 310kcal
- Sugar: 27g
- Sodium: 54mg |
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 36mg