The Dirty Root Beer Float is a fun spin on the classic. The addition of some root beer booze gives this nostalgic drink a grown-up twist!

A&W, Dr. McGilllicudy's, ice cream in a beer mug topped with whipped cream and a maraschino cherry

As summer winds down and we look towards cooler fall weather, we are bringing you our last beverage in our summer cocktail series. When you think of a classic root beer float, you probably imagine a frosty mug filled with creamy vanilla ice cream, topped with fizzy root beer. It’s a childhood favorite that evokes feelings of nostalgia and summer fun. But what if you could take that beloved dessert drink and give it a grown-up twist? Enter the Dirty Root Beer Float. This easy recipe combines the timeless flavor of root beer with a kick of root beer schnapps, spiced rum or whiskey, creating a delightful treat that’s perfect for adult gatherings. And the best part? It’s incredibly simple to make. Kids move over! Adults like to have fun too!

What’s a Dirty Root Beer Float?

A Dirty Root Beer Float is essentially a root beer float for adults. By adding a splash of alcohol, this classic dessert drink is transformed into a sophisticated and slightly naughty treat. The alcohol adds depth and warmth to the sweet, creamy flavors of the root beer and ice cream, making it a popular choice for parties, summer barbecues, or a quiet evening at home. Whether you’re hosting a get-together or simply looking for a fun way to unwind, a Dirty Root Beer Float offers the perfect balance of indulgence and refreshment.

Why you’ll love this Dirty Root Beer Float

An adult version of the root beer float!
Creamy, boozy and delicious!
Reminiscent of your childhood with a twist!

Great for parties, BBQs or anytime!
Fun and refreshing!

Understanding the Ingredients

To create the perfect Dirty Root Beer Float, you’ll need just a few key ingredients.

Root Beer: The star of the show. Look for one with a strong, traditional flavor—something that’s rich in spices like vanilla, licorice, and sarsaparilla. Popular choices include: A&W, IBC, Stewart’s, Barq’s and Mug.
Root Beer Schnapps: Gives the float a little boozy, rich creamy flavor.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Opt for a brand that’s known for its creamy texture and authentic vanilla flavor, as this will pair beautifully with the root beer and alcohol.

Optional toppings: Add an extra layer of decadence and visual appeal by adding some whipped cream, a maraschino cherry, or even chocolate shavings or sprinkles.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Chilling the Glass

Before you start assembling your Dirty Root Beer Float, it’s essential to chill your glass. A frosty glass not only keeps your drink cold longer but also adds to the overall sensory experience. To chill your glass, simply place it in the freezer for at least 15-20 minutes before you plan to make your float. If you’re preparing for a party, you can chill multiple glasses at once and keep them in the freezer until you’re ready to serve. This step ensures that every sip is as refreshing as possible.

Adding the Alcohol

Once your glass is frosty and ready, it’s time to add the alcohol. Pour 2-3 ounces of booze into the bottom of the glass. The amount can be adjusted depending on how strong you want your drink to be. If you’re new to Dirty Root Beer Floats, start with 2 ounces and taste-test before adding more. The root beer schnapps will enhance the creamy, traditional rich root beer flavor.

Adding the Ice Cream

Next, carefully scoop 3 generous servings of vanilla ice cream into each glass. The key here is balance—you want enough ice cream to create that classic float texture but not so much that it overwhelms the alcohol. The ice cream should float on top of the alcohol, creating a creamy barrier that will mix beautifully with the root beer in the next step. For those looking to experiment, try using different ice cream flavors like chocolate, caramel, or even coffee to add a unique twist to your Dirty Root Beer Float.

Pour the Root Beer

Now it’s time for the final step—adding the root beer. Slowly pour the root beer over the ice cream, allowing it to foam up and create that signature float look. Pouring slowly is key here; too fast, and you’ll end up with an overflow of foam. To prevent this, tilt the glass slightly as you pour. Using cold root beer will help maintain the drink’s temperature and keep the ice cream from melting too quickly. Once the glass is filled, give it a gentle stir to mix the alcohol, root beer, and ice cream together for a smooth, creamy sip.

Make this Dirty Root Beer Float for your next gathering!

And there you have it—an easy, delicious Dirty Root Beer Float that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. This grown-up version of a classic treat is not only simple to make but also offers endless possibilities for customization. Whether you stick with the traditional spiced rum and vanilla ice cream or experiment with new flavors and spirits like the root beer schnapps that we used for this recipe, the Dirty Root Beer Float is a dessert drink that’s both nostalgic and novel. So why not give it a try? Whip up a batch, sit back, and enjoy the perfect blend of sweet, creamy, and boozy in every sip. Don’t forget to share your creations on social media or in the comments below! Cheers to the end of summer! And remember…

Life’s too short to eat bad food!