Remember the time I was ready for it to be fall, but it was still hot enough outside to fry eggs on the sidewalk? Okay, so it’s not that hot where I live, but still. We’re in full-on shorts and flip flops attire and probably will be for a while. What you need this time of year is a spiced autumn wonder disguised as a cold frosty summer treat. Perfect for those in between months where you’re totally confused as to which season to be devoted to. I actually thought of this last fall but as the months filled up I never got around to post it. Then this fall rolls around and cider floats are all over the blogosphere. Turns out I’m not as ingenious as I thought. Hate it when that happens! Regardless, you’re going to want to try this one!
Ingredients Needed
This is just a preview of ingredients and method, keep scrolling for full printable recipe.
- Apple cider – Make sure you use a good apple cider, not plain ol’ apple juice. Sometimes you’ll see jugs labeled “apple cider” next to the apple juice, but don’t buy it if it looks clear and light, like normal apple juice. You want an unfiltered cider, so it has little bits of pulp in it; it should be a darker, amber color like this picture. Don’t be afraid to buy the big jug. You can make lots of things with the left overs like, Hot Caramel Apple Cider, Apple Butter Pork Chops, and Tortellini Sausage Soup.
This time of year, seasonal jugs of cider start popping up in grocery stores and are often found on the aisle end-caps or in the produce department. There is also “Simply Apple” found in the refrigerated section near the orange juices. I think the seasonal type jugs are still better for this particular recipe, but if you can’t find any, Simply Apple would be a good option; much better than plain apple juice. Depending on where you live, it’s often from local suppliers. We always support buying products that are produced locally; they not only taste the best because they’re fresh, it’s a great way to support local growers and businesses in your area. - Ginger ale
- Vanilla ice cream – Or any of those yummy fall flavored ice creams like cinnamon or apple pie would be yummalicious. And if you want to go all out, try our Homemade Apple Pie Ice Cream, or this Snickerdoodle Ice Cream without the cookies, or this easy peasy Two-Ingredient Ice Cream.
- Ground cinnamon and nutmeg – For garnish.
- Jarred caramel sauce – Or homemade, if that’s your thing. Buttermilk Caramel Syrup would be great here!
How to Make Apple Cider Floats
- You’ll start by pouring a little apple cider into a glass.
- Then you’ll add a little fizz. The trick is adding the right amount. It’s not rocket science, but if you add too little, it comes out like flat soda, and if you add too much, it really dilutes the flavor of the cider. A 2-1 ratio of cider to ginger ale seems to be just about right. And really, I like to sacrifice a little fizz for a stronger cider flavor.
- Next comes a big scoop or two of vanilla ice cream.
- After the ice cream, sprinkle a little nutmeg and cinnamon on top, or a lot of nutmeg and cinnamon if you’re me.
- And a nice big drizzle of caramel. Then enjoy!
Storing and Other Tips
- Apple Cider Floats are best enjoyed freshly made! Keep the ingredients on hand to assemble one or more whenever you’re ready!
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Use this Hot Caramel Apple Cider recipe and top with ice cream, caramel, and spices!
Lemon-lime soda, cream soda, or even sparkling apple cider would probably work!
Since these are best served right away, I would maintain the 2:1 ratio of cider to ginger ale, but mix it in a large pitcher. That way it’s easy to fill each glass quickly, top with a scoop of ice cream, a drizzle of caramel, and a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg.
I’ve never tried doing this in a punch bowl but, in theory, it should work. Just be sure to add ice cream and garnishes right before people are ready to scoop up.
Apple Cider Floats
Ingredients
- 1 cup apple cider
- ½ cup ginger ale
- 1-2 scoops vanilla ice cream or any seasonal flavor such as cinnamon or apple pie
- ground cinnamon and nutmeg for sprinkling
- 1-2 tablespoons jarred caramel sauce
Instructions
- Pour apple cider and ginger ale into a glass. I like a ratio of about 2 parts cider to 1 part ginger ale.
- Add vanilla ice cream. Sprinkle on nutmeg and cinnamon to taste and drizzle caramel sauce on top. Serve immediately with a straw and a spoon.
Notes
- These are best served fresh!
- If serving a crowd, mix cider and ginger ale in a 2:1 ratio in a large pitcher then use that to fill glasses and top with ice cream and garnishes.
Questions & Reviews
I LOVE apple cider, and this looks like such a tasty treat. 🙂
Looks so good! I’ll be heading to the store in my sundress & flip flops to get some cider (if we’re lucky enough to have some in the stores yet!) AH, finally a taste of fall in FL!
I was hoping for a taste description about the Roasted Saigon Cinnamon. It sounds amazing. Is it more intense in flavor than regular cinnamon?
It’s really good Julianne, it’s definitely a little more…intense isn’t the right word- well maybe it is, just more complex I guess? I really like it. In a lot of recipes you really wouldn’t be able to tell a difference, but when you can taste the cinnamon, the roasted has a great flavor. I love the color too; it’s much darker.
I am so excited to try this! I love fall!
What a good idea! Just like apple pie a la mode.
You’re dangerous!
That is making me gain 10lbs by looking at it.
I MUST MAKE ONE!
This is funny. I’ve been thinking of making a caramel apple shake lately. I was going to use your caramel apple cider recipe and blend it up with ice cream.
I think this would be great warmed up too. The ice cream would melt a little faster, but MMMMM, warm-spicy-creamy-cider sounds marvelous to me.
Our weather has been tricky lately too. Cool at night and in the morning but in the upper 90’s to even 100’s during the day. So I love how this is the perfect ‘in between seasons’ treat like you said. Kinda like we are ‘faking’ fall! : )
Looks delish! But you have to toss that pre-greated nutmeg and get yourself real nutmeg. It will change your life.
Lol, I do have whole nutmeg- or I *did*. Fresh out, so pre-ground works great in a pinch!