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Creamy Brown Sugar Cinnamon Ice Cream Float (Easy Recipe)

brown sugar cinnamon ice cream float - featured image

A nostalgic ice cream soda float with a homemade brown sugar cinnamon syrup, creamy vanilla ice cream, and fizzy cream soda. This quick and easy dessert is perfect for any occasion and brings back the warmth of childhood memories.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (200g) dark brown sugar, packed
  • 1 cup (240ml) water
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • 4 scoops vanilla ice cream
  • 1 can (12 oz / 355ml) cream soda
  • Whipped cream (optional but highly recommended)
  • Ground cinnamon for garnish

Instructions

  1. Make the brown sugar cinnamon syrup: In a small saucepan, combine the packed dark brown sugar, water, and cinnamon sticks. Place over medium heat and stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely โ€” about 3-4 minutes. Once the sugar is dissolved, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla extract and pinch of salt, and let it cool for 10 minutes. Remove the cinnamon sticks.
  2. Chill your glasses: While the syrup cools, pop your serving glasses in the freezer for 5-10 minutes.
  3. Add the syrup: Pour 2-3 tablespoons of the brown sugar cinnamon syrup into the bottom of each chilled glass.
  4. Add the ice cream: Gently place 2 scoops of vanilla ice cream into each glass. Donโ€™t press them down.
  5. Pour the soda: Slowly pour the cream soda over the ice cream, tilting the glass slightly to control the fizz. Pour about 1/3 at a time, letting the bubbles settle between pours. Fill the glass to about 1 inch from the top.
  6. Top and serve: Add a generous swirl of whipped cream on top, then dust with a light sprinkle of ground cinnamon. Serve immediately with a long spoon and a straw.

Notes

For best results, use full-fat premium vanilla ice cream. The syrup can be made up to a week ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Warm slightly before using. For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk vanilla ice cream and coconut whipped topping. For a lower sugar version, use sugar-free cream soda and reduce brown sugar to 1/2 cup.

Nutrition

Keywords: ice cream float, brown sugar cinnamon, cream soda float, easy dessert, nostalgic drink, quick dessert