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Salted Caramel Apple Cider Float: Best Easy Fall Recipe

Salted Caramel Apple Cider Float - featured image

This Salted Caramel Apple Cider Float is a quick, easy, and decadent fall treat that combines cold, spiced apple cider with creamy vanilla ice cream and rich salted caramel sauce. It’s the perfect dessert for a cozy night in or a fun gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (480 ml) high-quality, unfiltered apple cider
  • 2 large scoops (about 1 cup total) premium vanilla ice cream
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) salted caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) bourbon or dark rum (optional)
  • Pinch of ground cinnamon or apple pie spice for garnish
  • 2 tablespoons (30 g) granulated sugar (for rim)
  • 1/2 teaspoon (3 g) flaky sea salt (for rim)
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) honey or maple syrup (for rim)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Salted Caramel Rim (Optional): On a small plate, mix the granulated sugar and flaky sea salt together. Pour the honey or maple syrup onto another small plate. Dip the rim of each glass into the honey, then into the sugar-salt mixture, turning to coat evenly. Set aside to let the rim set for a minute.
  2. Warm the Caramel Sauce: Spoon the salted caramel sauce into a small microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 10-15 seconds, just until it’s loose and pourable. Do not overheat.
  3. Add the Bourbon (Optional): If making the adult version, pour 1/2 tablespoon of bourbon or dark rum into the bottom of each glass.
  4. Pour the Apple Cider: Fill each glass about halfway (about 1 cup per glass) with the cold, unfiltered apple cider.
  5. Scoop the Ice Cream: Using an ice cream scoop, add one large, generous scoop of vanilla ice cream to each glass. Gently press it down into the cider a little bit.
  6. Drizzle with Caramel: Drizzle the warmed salted caramel sauce over the top of the ice cream scoop, using about 1-2 tablespoons per float.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle a tiny pinch of ground cinnamon or apple pie spice over the top. For an extra touch, add another tiny pinch of flaky sea salt. Serve immediately with a long spoon and a straw.

Notes

For the best texture, use a firm, high-quality vanilla ice cream that won’t melt too quickly. Warm the caramel sauce just enough to make it pourable. Chill the glasses in the freezer for 15-20 minutes before assembling for an extra-cold float. This float is best enjoyed immediately.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cider float, salted caramel, fall dessert, easy recipe, ice cream float, caramel apple