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Strawberry Cream Soda Float

Strawberry Cream Soda Float

This homemade strawberry cream soda float transforms fresh strawberries into a luxurious syrup that's combined with sparkling water and topped with vanilla ice cream for the ultimate nostalgic treat. The recipe creates a restaurant-quality float with natural strawberry flavor and creamy texture that rivals any classic soda fountain creation.
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Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups fresh strawberries hulled and chopped
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 4 cups cold club soda or seltzer water
  • 8 scoops vanilla ice cream
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • Whipped cream for topping optional
  • Fresh strawberries for garnish

Equipment

  • Large saucepan
  • Fine mesh strainer
  • Blender or food processor
  • Tall glasses (16-oz capacity)
  • Ice cream scoop
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Create the strawberry syrup by combining chopped strawberries, sugar, and water in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes until strawberries are soft and the liquid has a deep red color.
  2. Strain the syrup by pouring the hot mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a clean bowl, pressing gently on the strawberry solids to extract maximum flavor. Discard the pulp and stir in lime juice. Allow syrup to cool completely in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
  3. Prepare the glasses by chilling them in the freezer for 30 minutes before assembly to help maintain carbonation and keep ice cream firm.
  4. Assemble each float by adding 1/4 cup of chilled strawberry syrup to the bottom of each glass. Add 2 scoops of vanilla ice cream, then slowly pour 1 cup of cold club soda down the side of the tilted glass to minimize foam formation.
  5. Add the cream element by gently pouring 2 tablespoons of heavy cream over the ice cream in each glass, creating the signature "cream soda" effect.
  6. Garnish and serve immediately with optional whipped cream, fresh strawberry slices, and a straw and spoon for the complete soda fountain experience.

Notes

Ingredient Substitutions: Fresh strawberries can be replaced with 2 cups of thawed frozen strawberries for year-round preparation. Lemon juice works as a substitute for lime juice, while ginger ale or lemon-lime soda can replace club soda for different flavor profiles.
Storage Tips: Homemade strawberry syrup stores in the refrigerator for up to one week in an airtight container or can be frozen in ice cube trays for up to 2 months. For longer storage, the syrup can be processed using water bath canning methods for up to 18 months of shelf life.
Serving Suggestions: Pre-scoop ice cream and store in the freezer until serving time to streamline preparation when entertaining. The float is best served immediately while carbonation is at its peak, using both a straw and spoon for optimal enjoyment.
Nutritional Benefits: Fresh strawberries provide powerful antioxidants including anthocyanins and vitamin C, which support heart health and may help reduce inflammation. Studies show that consuming strawberries can improve antioxidant status and endothelial function while providing anti-cancer properties. Vanilla ice cream contributes calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin B12 to support bone health and energy metabolism.
Scaling: This recipe easily doubles or triples for larger gatherings. Store extra syrup in smaller containers to extend freshness, and consider setting up a DIY float bar with multiple soda and ice cream options for interactive entertaining.
Share your delicious creations with #HolisticHabitHub and inspire others to embrace this timeless treat that brings joy to every sip!