Blue Bell Root Beer Float Ice Cream Recipes: A Nostalgic Treat!

Blue Bell Creameries, renowned for its classic and inventive ice cream flavors, has once again captured the hearts (and taste buds!) of dessert enthusiasts with its Root Beer Float Ice Cream. This flavor perfectly encapsulates the timeless appeal of a frosty root beer float, blending the creamy texture of ice cream with the bubbly, slightly spicy taste of root beer. This blog post is dedicated to exploring the delightful world of Blue Bell Root Beer Float Ice Cream, offering creative recipes and serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience. Get ready to indulge in a nostalgic treat with a modern twist!

What Makes Blue Bell Root Beer Float Ice Cream Special?

Before diving into recipes, let’s appreciate what makes this particular flavor so special. Blue Bell’s Root Beer Float Ice Cream isn’t just root beer flavored ice cream; it’s a carefully crafted experience. The ice cream base is infused with the authentic taste of root beer, capturing the distinct sassafras and vanilla notes that define this classic soda. But what truly sets it apart are the swirls of root beer sherbet that are incorporated throughout. These sherbet swirls add a refreshing tanginess and a delightful textural contrast to the creamy ice cream, mimicking the foamy top of a freshly poured root beer float. The result is a symphony of flavors and textures that will transport you back to childhood memories of summer afternoons and soda fountains.

Recipe Ideas Featuring Blue Bell Root Beer Float Ice Cream

Now, let’s get to the fun part – the recipes! Here are some creative and delicious ways to enjoy Blue Bell Root Beer Float Ice Cream:

1. Classic Root Beer Float Redefined

This is a twist on the classic, using Blue Bell Root Beer Float Ice Cream to amplify the root beer flavor.

Ingredients:

* 2-3 scoops of Blue Bell Root Beer Float Ice Cream
* 12 oz chilled Root Beer (your favorite brand)
* Whipped cream (optional)
* Maraschino cherries (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Glass: Choose a tall glass, preferably a classic soda fountain glass, for the best presentation. Chill the glass in the freezer for a few minutes to keep your float colder for longer.
2. Add the Ice Cream: Place two to three generous scoops of Blue Bell Root Beer Float Ice Cream into the chilled glass. The amount of ice cream will depend on your preference and the size of your glass. Aim for a good balance between ice cream and root beer.
3. Pour the Root Beer: Slowly pour the chilled root beer over the ice cream. Pouring slowly helps to prevent excessive fizzing and ensures a smoother float. Tilt the glass slightly as you pour to help the root beer flow evenly around the ice cream.
4. Watch the Fizz: As the root beer hits the ice cream, it will start to fizz. This is part of the classic root beer float experience! Let the fizz subside slightly before adding more root beer. Continue pouring until the glass is almost full, leaving some room for the whipped cream (if using).
5. Add Whipped Cream (Optional): If you like a creamy topping, add a generous dollop of whipped cream on top of the float. You can use homemade whipped cream or store-bought whipped cream. For an extra touch, use a piping bag to create a decorative swirl.
6. Garnish with a Cherry (Optional): Top the whipped cream with a maraschino cherry for a classic and colorful garnish. The cherry adds a touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
7. Serve Immediately: Serve your Root Beer Float immediately and enjoy! The ice cream will start to melt, so it’s best to enjoy it while it’s still cold and fizzy.

Tips for the Perfect Root Beer Float:

* Chill Everything: Make sure your glass, ice cream, and root beer are all well-chilled for the best results.
* Use Quality Root Beer: The quality of your root beer will significantly impact the overall taste of the float. Choose a root beer that you enjoy drinking on its own.
* Pour Slowly: Pouring the root beer slowly will help to prevent excessive fizzing and create a smoother float.
* Adjust the Ratio: Adjust the ratio of ice cream to root beer to your liking. Some people prefer more ice cream, while others prefer more root beer.
* Experiment with Garnishes: Get creative with your garnishes! Try adding chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce.

2. Root Beer Float Ice Cream Sandwich

A fun and easy twist on the classic ice cream sandwich, using cookies and Blue Bell Root Beer Float Ice Cream.

Ingredients:

* 1 pint Blue Bell Root Beer Float Ice Cream, slightly softened
* 12 large chocolate chip cookies (or your favorite type of cookie)

Instructions:

1. Soften the Ice Cream: Remove the Blue Bell Root Beer Float Ice Cream from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes to soften slightly. This will make it easier to scoop and spread.
2. Prepare the Cookies: Arrange the cookies in pairs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure the cookies are of similar size for each sandwich.
3. Scoop and Spread: Using an ice cream scoop or spoon, place a generous scoop of softened Root Beer Float Ice Cream on the flat side of one cookie. Gently spread the ice cream evenly over the surface of the cookie, leaving a little space around the edges.
4. Top with Another Cookie: Carefully place the flat side of another cookie on top of the ice cream, creating a sandwich. Gently press down on the top cookie to help the ice cream adhere and create a firm sandwich.
5. Smooth the Edges (Optional): If desired, use a knife or spatula to smooth the edges of the ice cream sandwich. This will give them a more polished look.
6. Freeze the Sandwiches: Place the ice cream sandwiches on the prepared baking sheet and transfer them to the freezer. Freeze for at least 2-3 hours, or until the ice cream is firm.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Once the ice cream sandwiches are frozen solid, remove them from the freezer and serve immediately. Enjoy the delightful combination of cookies and Root Beer Float Ice Cream!

Tips and Variations:

* Cookie Variations: Experiment with different types of cookies, such as chocolate cookies, peanut butter cookies, or oatmeal raisin cookies. Choose cookies that complement the flavor of the Root Beer Float Ice Cream.
* Ice Cream Variations: While this recipe calls for Blue Bell Root Beer Float Ice Cream, you can also use other flavors of ice cream. Consider using vanilla ice cream, chocolate ice cream, or even coffee ice cream.
* Add-ins: Get creative and add extra ingredients to your ice cream sandwiches. Try adding chocolate chips, sprinkles, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut to the ice cream before sandwiching it between the cookies.
* Dipping: For an extra indulgent treat, dip the ice cream sandwiches in melted chocolate or caramel sauce before freezing.
* Presentation: Wrap the ice cream sandwiches individually in plastic wrap or parchment paper for easy storage and serving.

3. Root Beer Float Ice Cream Pie

Transform your favorite ice cream into a delightful pie! This recipe combines a graham cracker crust with Blue Bell Root Beer Float Ice Cream and a whipped cream topping.

Ingredients:

* For the Crust:
* 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar
* 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
* For the Filling:
* 1 quart Blue Bell Root Beer Float Ice Cream, softened
* For the Topping:
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
* 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
* Root beer flavored candies for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:
* In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
* Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie plate. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to firmly pack the crust.
* Bake the crust in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
2. Prepare the Filling:
* Let the Blue Bell Root Beer Float Ice Cream soften at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes, or until it is easily spreadable.
* Once the crust is completely cool, spread the softened ice cream evenly over the crust. Use a spatula to create a smooth surface.
3. Freeze the Pie:
* Cover the pie with plastic wrap and freeze for at least 3-4 hours, or until the ice cream is firm.
4. Prepare the Topping:
* In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
5. Assemble the Pie:
* Remove the pie from the freezer and spread the whipped cream evenly over the ice cream layer. You can create swirls or patterns with a spoon or spatula.
* Garnish the pie with root beer flavored candies, if desired.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
* Cut the pie into slices and serve immediately. If the pie is too hard to cut, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly.

Tips and Variations:

* Crust Variations: You can use other types of crusts, such as an Oreo cookie crust or a chocolate graham cracker crust.
* Ice Cream Variations: While this recipe calls for Blue Bell Root Beer Float Ice Cream, you can also use other flavors of ice cream. Consider using vanilla ice cream, chocolate ice cream, or even coffee ice cream.
* Add-ins: Get creative and add extra ingredients to your pie. Try adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut to the ice cream layer.
* Sauce: Drizzle the pie with chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, or root beer syrup before serving.
* Make it Ahead: You can make the pie ahead of time and store it in the freezer for up to a week. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.

4. Root Beer Float Ice Cream Milkshake

A quick and easy milkshake that captures the essence of a root beer float.

Ingredients:

* 2 cups Blue Bell Root Beer Float Ice Cream
* 1/2 cup milk (or more, to desired consistency)
* 2 tablespoons root beer syrup (optional, for extra flavor)
* Whipped cream (optional)
* Maraschino cherry (optional)

Instructions:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a blender, combine the Blue Bell Root Beer Float Ice Cream, milk, and root beer syrup (if using).
2. Blend: Blend until smooth and creamy. If the milkshake is too thick, add more milk until you reach your desired consistency.
3. Pour and Serve: Pour the milkshake into a tall glass.
4. Top with Whipped Cream (Optional): If desired, top the milkshake with whipped cream and a maraschino cherry.
5. Serve Immediately: Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips and Variations:

* Adjust Consistency: Adjust the amount of milk to achieve your desired milkshake consistency. For a thicker milkshake, use less milk. For a thinner milkshake, use more milk.
* Add-ins: Get creative and add extra ingredients to your milkshake. Try adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or a splash of root beer soda.
* Flavor Boost: For a stronger root beer flavor, add a few drops of root beer extract to the milkshake.
* Rim the Glass: For a festive touch, rim the glass with sugar or sprinkles before pouring in the milkshake.
* Make it Boozy: For an adult version, add a shot of root beer schnapps or vanilla vodka to the milkshake.

5. Root Beer Float Ice Cream Parfait

Layers of deliciousness in a glass! This parfait features Blue Bell Root Beer Float Ice Cream, crumbled cookies, and whipped cream.

Ingredients:

* 1 pint Blue Bell Root Beer Float Ice Cream, slightly softened
* 1 cup crumbled chocolate cookies (such as Oreos)
* 1 cup whipped cream
* Chocolate syrup (optional)
* Maraschino cherries (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Crumble the chocolate cookies into small pieces. Slightly soften the Blue Bell Root Beer Float Ice Cream for easier scooping.
2. Layer the Parfait: In a tall glass or parfait dish, layer the ingredients in the following order:
* A layer of crumbled chocolate cookies
* A layer of Blue Bell Root Beer Float Ice Cream
* A layer of whipped cream
3. Repeat Layers: Repeat the layers until the glass is full, ending with a layer of whipped cream.
4. Drizzle with Chocolate Syrup (Optional): Drizzle the parfait with chocolate syrup, if desired.
5. Garnish with a Cherry (Optional): Top the parfait with a maraschino cherry for a classic touch.
6. Serve Immediately: Serve the parfait immediately and enjoy!

Tips and Variations:

* Cookie Variations: Experiment with different types of cookies, such as graham crackers, peanut butter cookies, or shortbread cookies.
* Add-ins: Get creative and add extra ingredients to your parfait. Try adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, sprinkles, or fruit.
* Sauce Variations: Use different types of sauces, such as caramel sauce, butterscotch sauce, or root beer syrup.
* Yogurt Parfait: For a healthier version, replace the ice cream with Greek yogurt.
* Presentation: Use clear glasses or parfait dishes to showcase the layers of the parfait.

Beyond the Recipes: Serving Suggestions

Beyond these specific recipes, here are some general serving suggestions to elevate your Blue Bell Root Beer Float Ice Cream experience:

* Serve in Chilled Bowls or Glasses: Keeping your serving dishes cold helps to prevent the ice cream from melting too quickly.
* Offer a Variety of Toppings: Set up a toppings bar with options like chocolate syrup, caramel sauce, sprinkles, chopped nuts, and whipped cream.
* Pair with Complementary Desserts: Serve Root Beer Float Ice Cream alongside other desserts like brownies, cookies, or pie.
* Create a Root Beer Float Bar: Offer a selection of different root beers and ice cream flavors for guests to create their own custom floats.
* Use Fun Garnishes: Garnish your desserts with fun and festive items like maraschino cherries, gummy bears, or candy straws.

Why Choose Blue Bell?

Blue Bell Creameries has a long-standing reputation for quality and tradition. Their ice cream is made with fresh ingredients and a commitment to crafting exceptional flavors. Choosing Blue Bell Root Beer Float Ice Cream means you’re not just getting a sweet treat; you’re getting a taste of nostalgia and a commitment to quality that has been a hallmark of the brand for generations.

Conclusion: A Sweet Ending

Blue Bell Root Beer Float Ice Cream offers a delightful and nostalgic way to enjoy a classic flavor. Whether you’re creating a simple root beer float, a decadent ice cream pie, or a refreshing milkshake, the possibilities are endless. So, grab a pint of Blue Bell Root Beer Float Ice Cream, get creative in the kitchen, and indulge in a sweet treat that will transport you back to simpler times. Enjoy the bubbly, creamy, and utterly delicious experience!