Meet Apple Cider Float: The Fall Drink Better Than a Pumpkin Spice Latte

If there is anything I love, it is a treat in the form of a beverage. It doesn’t matter whether it is an iced coffee, a tea, or an ice cream float. As long as I have something fun to sip on, I’m happy. 

While summer might seem like prime time for sweet drinks, I’d argue another season takes the top spot. Fall, with its Pumpkin Spice Lattes and chai, is a paradise for a beverage lover like me.

Recently, I stumbled on a dessert that's the epitome of cozy fall treats. It's not an entirely new idea. But, ever since I heard about it for the first time, I’ve been wondering how I lived so long without it. I’d even go so far as to say that I think I’ve found the drink of the season.

What Is an Apple Cider Float?

Imagine curling up on the couch to watch your favorite fall movie or show, with a warm mug of apple cider in your hands. Now, imagine a scoop of vanilla ice cream in that mug. Enchanting, right? 

That's all my new favorite fall drink entails: hot cider with a scoop (or two) of ice cream on top. The combination of hot, spiced apple cider and cold, creamy vanilla ice cream is as close to perfection as a fall beverage can get. (Sorry, Pumpkin Spice.) Autumn has barely begun, and apple cider floats are set to become my new go-to fall dessert.

With just a couple of ingredients and minimal prep, there is no reason not to embrace the season and enjoy this comforting treat. In the recipe for Creamy Apple Cider Floats, the creator describes it as “a hot cup of apple pie.” But honestly? I think this dessert might be even better than pie.

How to Make Apple Cider Floats

All you need is hot apple cider—which you can make yourself or buy pre-made—and a couple scoops of ice cream. Pour the cider over the ice cream in your favorite mug (bonus points if it's fall-themed). With just those three things, you are all set with the perfect, easy fall dessert. 

Looking to upgrade your apple cider float? Good news—there are plenty of ways to make this treat even more special. I recommend a drizzle of caramel with a pinch of sea salt to make this even more divine. A graham cracker crumble would also take this dessert to the next level.

As the recipe creator suggests, try using pumpkin ice cream instead of vanilla. If that's not "fall in a cup," I don't know what is.

I know the Pumpkin Spice Latte is a fall classic, but I have to admit—this is my new go-to. Give it a try, and I bet you’ll agree with me.