Paul Kushner
The Rum and Coke Float takes a classic highball and turns it into a nostalgic dessert drink with a boozy edge. Spiced rum and cola pair beautifully with creamy vanilla bean ice cream, creating a fizzy, sweet blend of warm spice and chilled indulgence. Topped with whipped cream and a maraschino cherry, this float feels both familiar and playful. It’s perfect for backyard gatherings, late-night treats, or whenever you’re craving something cool and creamy.
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Tasting Notes
The Rum and Coke Float offers a satisfying balance of rich and refreshing. The spiced rum brings notes of caramel, vanilla, and baking spices that pair naturally with the cola’s deep sweetness. As the vanilla ice cream melts, it softens the drink’s intensity while adding a smooth, creamy texture. Each sip shifts slightly as the ingredients continue to blend the fizz of soda, the smoothness of dairy, and the warmth of rum all coming together. Finished with whipped cream and a cherry, this drink leans dessert-like while still feeling light enough to enjoy casually.
Equipment and Glassware
This Rum and Coke Float calls for minimal tools, making it easy to prepare at home. You’ll need an ice cream scoop, a long spoon for stirring, and a chilled tall glass such as a soda fountain glass, highball, or milkshake glass. A straw can be helpful for sipping, and a jigger is useful for measuring the rum. There’s no shaking or blending required, and the drink is built directly in the serving glass. Keeping your glass cold helps slow the melting process and keeps the drink tasting colder for longer.
Ingredients
- 1 large scoop vanilla bean ice cream
- 1.5 oz spiced rum
- 5 oz Coke
- Whipped cream, for garnish
- Maraschino cherry, for garnish
Instructions
- Place a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream into a tall chilled glass.
- Slowly pour in the spiced rum, followed by the Coke.
- Top with a swirl of whipped cream.
- Garnish with a maraschino cherry and serve immediately.
Pro Tips
- Use Coke straight from the fridge for a colder, fizzier drink
- Chill your glass for 10–15 minutes before serving
- Slowly pour the Coke to reduce foam overflow
- Try vanilla-flavored rum for a smoother profile
- Add a splash of cold brew coffee for added depth
- Drizzle caramel syrup on top for extra sweetness
- Garnish with shaved chocolate for a richer finish
- Swap in cherry cola for a fruit-forward variation
When to Serve
The Rum and Coke Float is perfect for casual summer gatherings, weekend barbecues, or anytime you want a simple drink with some sweetness. It’s well-suited for informal parties or as a dessert option when you want something easy to make. Because it doesn’t require any shaking or prep beyond scooping and pouring, it’s great for serving on short notice. Its balance of soda, ice cream, and spirits also makes it a fun choice for birthday celebrations or warm-weather brunches.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
Spiced Rum:
- Captain Morgan Original Spiced
- Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum
- Kraken Black Spiced Rum
- Chairlift Spiced Rum
- Bacardi Spiced Rum
- Admiral Nelson’s Spiced Rum
- Oakheart Spiced Rum
- Bumbu Spiced Rum
Similar Cocktails
- Red Wine Float
- Mango Mai Tai
- Coconut Cocoa Rum Bomb
- Boozy Frozen Caramel Hot Chocolate
- Pink Moscato Grapefruit Spritzer
Equipment
- Ice cream scoop
- Soda fountain glass
Ingredients
- 1 large scoop vanilla bean ice cream
- 1.5 oz spiced rum
- 5 oz Coke
- Whipped cream for garnish
- Maraschino cherry for garnish
Instructions
- Place a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream into a tall chilled glass.
- Slowly pour in the spiced rum, followed by the Coca-Cola.
- Top with a swirl of whipped cream.
- Garnish with a maraschino cherry and serve immediately.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use cold Coke to preserve the fizz and keep the float refreshing.
- Try different rum styles dark or coconut rum for a variation in flavor.
- Add a splash of cherry juice for a sweeter twist.
