Introduction
Who doesn't love the nostalgic delight of a root beer float? It's a childhood favorite that brings back memories of soda fountains and carefree summer days. But what if you could elevate this classic dessert with a grown-up twist? Enter the Root Beer Float with Bourbon Ice Cream—a decadent combination that takes the traditional treat to new heights. By infusing rich, homemade bourbon ice cream with the effervescent charm of root beer, this dessert cocktail is sure to impress your friends and delight your taste buds.
The original root beer float, also known as a 'black cow,' was created in the late 19th century and has since become a staple in American dessert culture. The addition of bourbon to the mix not only adds a sophisticated edge but also enhances the creamy, vanilla notes of the ice cream. This modern twist is perfect for those who appreciate the finer things in life and aren't afraid to indulge in a little nostalgia.
Ingredients
Crafting the perfect Root Beer Float with Bourbon Ice Cream requires a few key ingredients. Here's what you'll need to get started:
- 16 oz Heavy Cream: For a rich and creamy ice cream base that pairs beautifully with bourbon.
- 8 oz Half-and-Half: Adds extra creaminess and smoothness to the ice cream.
- 6 oz Sugar: Sweetens the ice cream and balances the bourbon's bold flavor.
- 0.5 Vanilla Bean: For that classic vanilla flavor. Use half a vanilla bean for the best results.
- 6 Egg Yolk: These give the ice cream its luscious, custardy texture.
- 4 oz Bourbon: Adds a boozy kick and depth of flavor to the ice cream.
- 12 oz Root Beer: The fizzy, sweet counterpart that completes the float.
Instructions
Creating this indulgent treat is a rewarding process. Follow these steps to make your Root Beer Float with Bourbon Ice Cream:
- Bring cream, half-and-half, sugar, and vanilla bean to a boil in a saucepan.
- Whisk hot cream mixture into egg yolks, then return to saucepan and heat for 1 minute.
- Strain custard, add bourbon, and cool over an ice bath. Freeze in an ice cream machine.
- Scoop ice cream into glasses and top with root beer.
Tips
- Ensure your ice cream custard is completely chilled before adding it to the ice cream machine—this helps achieve a smoother texture.
- Use a high-quality bourbon for richer, more nuanced flavors.
- For a stronger bourbon taste, you can add an extra splash to the root beer before pouring it over the ice cream.
- If you're short on time, you can use store-bought vanilla ice cream and simply mix in bourbon before freezing.
Conclusion
The Root Beer Float with Bourbon Ice Cream is more than just a dessert; it's an experience that marries the comfort of a classic with the sophistication of a modern twist. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself, this boozy float is a surefire way to impress and indulge.
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Root Beer Float With Bourbon Ice Cream recipe adapted from The Cocktail Club by Maureen Christian-Petrosky.
