The classic root beer float is a timeless treat that never fails to bring a smile to our faces. The combination of creamy vanilla ice cream and rich, bubbly root beer is a match made in heaven. But have you ever stopped to think about the best root beer to use in your floats? With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect one. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of root beer and explore the best options for creating the ultimate root beer float experience.
A Brief History of Root Beer
Before we dive into the best root beers for floats, let’s take a brief look at the history of this beloved beverage. Root beer has its roots (pun intended) in traditional medicine, dating back to the late 18th century. Pharmacists would mix roots, herbs, and bark to create a concoction that was believed to have healing properties. Over time, the recipe evolved, and root beer became a popular soft drink.
What Makes a Great Root Beer?
So, what makes a great root beer? Here are a few key factors to consider:
- Flavor profile: A good root beer should have a rich, complex flavor profile that’s both sweet and spicy.
- Carbonation: A root beer with the right level of carbonation is essential for creating a creamy, foamy head.
- Ingredients: Look for root beers made with natural ingredients and no high-fructose corn syrup.
Top Root Beers for Root Beer Floats
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s get to the good stuff. Here are some of the top root beers for root beer floats:
1. A&W Root Beer
A&W is a classic root beer brand that’s been around since 1919. Their root beer is made with a proprietary blend of herbs and spices, giving it a unique flavor that’s both sweet and spicy.
2. Barq’s Root Beer
Barq’s is another well-known root beer brand that’s been around since 1898. Their root beer is made with a blend of vanilla and anise, giving it a creamy, sweet flavor.
3. Mug Root Beer
Mug Root Beer is a popular choice among root beer enthusiasts. Their root beer is made with a blend of natural ingredients, including vanilla, anise, and licorice.
4. Stewart’s Root Beer
Stewart’s is a craft root beer brand that’s been around since 1924. Their root beer is made with a blend of natural ingredients, including vanilla, anise, and wintergreen.
5. Virgil’s Root Beer
Virgil’s is a craft root beer brand that’s known for its unique flavor profile. Their root beer is made with a blend of natural ingredients, including vanilla, anise, and birch bark.
Other Notable Mentions
While the above root beers are some of the most popular choices for root beer floats, there are a few other notable mentions worth considering:
- Henry Weinhard’s Root Beer: This root beer is made with a blend of natural ingredients, including vanilla, anise, and licorice.
- Dad’s Root Beer: This root beer is made with a blend of natural ingredients, including vanilla, anise, and wintergreen.
- Bundaberg Root Beer: This root beer is made with a blend of natural ingredients, including vanilla, anise, and ginger.
How to Create the Ultimate Root Beer Float
Now that we’ve covered the best root beers for floats, let’s talk about how to create the ultimate root beer float experience.
Step 1: Choose Your Root Beer
Select one of the root beers mentioned above, or feel free to experiment with different brands and flavors.
Step 2: Choose Your Ice Cream
Vanilla ice cream is the classic choice for root beer floats, but feel free to experiment with different flavors, such as chocolate or strawberry.
Step 3: Add the Root Beer
Slowly pour the root beer over the ice cream, creating a creamy, foamy head.
Step 4: Enjoy!
Sit back, relax, and enjoy your delicious root beer float.
Conclusion
The best root beer for root beer floats is a matter of personal preference. Whether you’re a fan of classic brands like A&W and Barq’s or prefer craft brands like Stewart’s and Virgil’s, there’s a root beer out there for everyone. By following the steps outlined above, you can create the ultimate root beer float experience that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the best root beer for root beer floats is one that’s made with natural ingredients, has a rich, complex flavor profile, and the right level of carbonation. By choosing a high-quality root beer and following the steps outlined above, you can create a delicious and memorable root beer float experience that’s sure to become a family favorite.
| Root Beer Brand | Flavor Profile | Carbonation Level | Ingredients |
|---|---|---|---|
| A&W | Rich, complex, sweet and spicy | Medium | Proprietary blend of herbs and spices |
| Barq’s | Creamy, sweet, vanilla and anise | Medium | Vanilla, anise, and other natural ingredients |
| Mug | Rich, complex, sweet and spicy | Medium | Vanilla, anise, licorice, and other natural ingredients |
| Stewart’s | Rich, complex, sweet and spicy | Medium | Vanilla, anise, wintergreen, and other natural ingredients |
| Virgil’s | Unique, complex, sweet and spicy | Medium | Vanilla, anise, birch bark, and other natural ingredients |
Note: The table above provides a summary of the top root beers for root beer floats, including their flavor profile, carbonation level, and ingredients.
What is the best type of root beer for root beer floats?
The best type of root beer for root beer floats is a matter of personal preference. However, some popular options include A&W, Barq’s, and Mug Root Beer. These brands offer a classic root beer flavor that pairs well with vanilla ice cream. If you’re looking for a more unique flavor, you might consider trying a craft root beer or a root beer with a twist, such as a root beer with a hint of vanilla or a root beer with a spicy kick.
When choosing a root beer for a root beer float, consider the flavor profile you’re aiming for. If you want a traditional root beer float taste, stick with a classic brand. If you want to mix things up, try a craft root beer or a root beer with a unique flavor. You can also experiment with different types of ice cream, such as chocolate or strawberry, to create a different flavor combination.
What is the difference between a root beer float and a root beer soda?
A root beer float and a root beer soda are two different beverages. A root beer float is a drink made with root beer and vanilla ice cream, while a root beer soda is simply a glass of root beer without ice cream. The addition of ice cream to a root beer float gives it a creamy texture and a sweeter flavor, while a root beer soda is typically more bitter and bubbly.
The main difference between a root beer float and a root beer soda is the presence of ice cream. If you’re looking for a refreshing drink that’s a little more indulgent, a root beer float is the way to go. If you prefer a lighter, more bubbly drink, a root beer soda might be more to your liking. You can also customize your root beer float by using different types of ice cream or adding other toppings, such as whipped cream or a cherry.
How do I make the perfect root beer float?
Making the perfect root beer float is a matter of using high-quality ingredients and following a few simple steps. Start by scooping a generous portion of vanilla ice cream into a tall glass. Next, slowly pour root beer over the ice cream, being careful not to overflow the glass. You can also add a few ice cubes to the glass to keep the drink cold and prevent the ice cream from melting too quickly.
The key to making a great root beer float is to use the right ratio of root beer to ice cream. You want to use enough root beer to cover the ice cream, but not so much that the drink becomes too watery. Experiment with different ratios to find the one that works best for you. You can also customize your root beer float by adding different toppings, such as whipped cream, a cherry, or a sprinkle of nutmeg.
Can I use different types of ice cream in a root beer float?
While vanilla ice cream is the traditional choice for root beer floats, you can definitely experiment with different types of ice cream to create a unique flavor combination. Some popular alternatives to vanilla include chocolate, strawberry, and cookie dough. You can also try using different flavors of ice cream, such as mint or peanut butter, to create a more complex flavor profile.
When using a different type of ice cream in a root beer float, keep in mind that the flavor of the ice cream will affect the overall taste of the drink. For example, if you use chocolate ice cream, the drink will have a richer, more decadent flavor. If you use strawberry ice cream, the drink will have a sweeter, more fruity flavor. Experiment with different types of ice cream to find the combination that works best for you.
What are some popular brands of root beer for root beer floats?
There are many popular brands of root beer that are well-suited for root beer floats. Some classic brands include A&W, Barq’s, and Mug Root Beer. These brands offer a traditional root beer flavor that pairs well with vanilla ice cream. If you’re looking for a more unique flavor, you might consider trying a craft root beer or a root beer with a twist, such as a root beer with a hint of vanilla or a root beer with a spicy kick.
Some other popular brands of root beer include Dad’s Root Beer, Stewart’s Root Beer, and Virgil’s Root Beer. These brands offer a range of flavors and styles, from traditional to more unique and experimental. You can also try making your own root beer at home using a root beer kit or recipe. This allows you to customize the flavor to your liking and create a truly unique root beer float experience.
Can I make a root beer float with diet root beer?
Yes, you can definitely make a root beer float with diet root beer. Diet root beer is a great option for those who are watching their calorie intake or prefer a sugar-free alternative. When using diet root beer, keep in mind that the flavor may be slightly different than regular root beer. Diet root beer can have a more artificial or sweet flavor, which may affect the overall taste of the drink.
When making a root beer float with diet root beer, you can follow the same steps as you would with regular root beer. Simply scoop a generous portion of vanilla ice cream into a tall glass, slowly pour the diet root beer over the ice cream, and add any desired toppings. You can also experiment with different types of ice cream or add-ins, such as whipped cream or a cherry, to create a more indulgent treat.
How do I store leftover root beer floats?
Storing leftover root beer floats can be a bit tricky, as the ice cream will melt and the root beer will go flat if not stored properly. If you don’t plan to finish your root beer float right away, you can store it in the refrigerator for a few hours. Simply place the glass in the refrigerator and keep it cold until you’re ready to serve.
If you want to store leftover root beer floats for a longer period of time, you can try freezing the mixture. Simply pour the root beer float into an airtight container, such as a plastic cup or a freezer-safe glass, and place it in the freezer. When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw the mixture in the refrigerator or at room temperature. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor of the drink may be affected by freezing and thawing.