Description
Refresh and delight with easy, creamy Orange Cream Ice Floats made with plant-based cream and a natural gelling agent. Combining fresh orange juice and velvety plant-based cream topped with fizzy carbonated water, these floats offer a perfect balance of citrus brightness and smooth creaminess. Ideal as a cool treat or elegant dessert, fully customizable with syrups or spices for a fun and nostalgic experience.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 1 cup Fresh Orange Juice
- 1/2 cup Plant-Based Cream
- 1/2 teaspoon Natural Vanilla Extract (natural)
- 2 tablespoons Sweetener of choice (maple syrup (natural), agave (natural), or preferred plant-based sweetener)
- 1 teaspoon Natural Gelling Agent
For the Float
- Chilled Carbonated Water or Club Soda
- Plant-Based Vanilla Ice Cream (natural), for topping (optional)
- Fresh Orange Slice or Sprig of Mint, for garnish
Optional Variations
- Splash of Natural Berry Syrup (natural)
- Pinch of Cinnamon or Ground Cardamom
- Fresh Mint or Basil Leaves (muddled)
- Substitute part of Plant-Based Cream with Coconut Milk
- Grapefruit or Lemon-Lime Soda (natural) instead of Club Soda
Instructions
- Prepare the Creamy Orange Base: In a bowl, whisk together fresh orange juice, plant-based cream, natural vanilla extract (natural), and sweetener until smooth. Add the natural gelling agent and mix well to slightly thicken and enhance the creamy texture. Let the mixture rest for 5 minutes to set perfectly.
- Chill the Mixture: Place the creamy orange base in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to cool thoroughly, ensuring every sip is refreshingly cold.
- Assemble the Ice Floats: Fill tall glasses halfway with chilled carbonated water or club soda. Gently spoon the creamy orange mixture on top to create a layered float effect, pouring slowly to maintain separation.
- Add the Final Touches: Optionally, top each float with a small scoop of plant-based vanilla ice cream (natural) for extra indulgence. Garnish with a fresh orange slice or a sprig of mint to enhance both aroma and presentation.
Notes
- Use freshly squeezed orange juice for the brightest flavor and natural sweetness.
- Chill all ingredients thoroughly to prevent the float from melting too quickly and maintain texture.
- Add the natural gelling agent early to achieve a perfect creamy consistency without thickening too much.
- Spoon or pour the creamy base gently onto the fizzy water to preserve the layered float effect.
- Adjust sweetener quantity based on the tartness of your oranges for a balanced citrus flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No cooking required
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 float
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Orange Cream Ice Floats, plant-based cream, orange juice, refreshing drink, vegan dessert, citrus float, dairy-free float