Rebel Cider Cocoa Floats (Print Version)

Spiced apple cider and cocoa blend with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent, festive beverage.

# Components:

→ Cider Cocoa Base

01 - 6 cups apple cider
02 - 3 cups whole milk
03 - 1 cup heavy cream
04 - 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
05 - 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
06 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
07 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
08 - 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
09 - Pinch of salt
10 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Floats

11 - 1.5 quarts vanilla ice cream
12 - 1 cup spiced rum or bourbon (optional, for adults)

→ Garnish

13 - Whipped cream
14 - Ground cinnamon or grated nutmeg
15 - Cinnamon sticks

# Method:

01 - In a large saucepan, combine apple cider, milk, and heavy cream. Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until steaming but not boiling.
02 - Whisk in cocoa powder, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Continue to stir until cocoa and sugar are fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
03 - Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. If using, add spiced rum or bourbon.
04 - Pour the hot cider cocoa into 12 heatproof mugs, filling each about two-thirds full. Add one generous scoop of vanilla ice cream to each mug.
05 - Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg. Garnish with a cinnamon stick, if desired. Serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 25 minutes from start to finish
  • Uses simple ingredients most people have during holiday season
  • Easily customizable for both kids and adults
  • Perfect balance of apple and chocolate flavors
02 -
  • Perfect for holiday entertaining as it can be made in advance
  • Wonderful way to use leftover apple cider
  • Can be served in a slow cooker for parties
  • Adaptable for different dietary needs
  • Makes your home smell amazing while preparing
03 -
  • Always warm dairy products slowly to prevent scorching
  • Sift cocoa powder before adding to eliminate lumps
  • Chill your mugs in the freezer for 10 minutes before serving to keep the ice cream from melting too quickly
  • If serving a crowd, prepare in a slow cooker set to warm and add ice cream individually as guests serve themselves
  • The ratio of cider to cocoa can be adjusted to your preference—more cider for a fruitier drink or more cocoa for a richer chocolate experience

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