Frozen Cherry Cola Float Pops Recipe
If you’re dreaming of a frosty treat that combines nostalgia, sweetness, and fizzy fun, these Frozen Cherry Cola Float Pops are about to become your new summer obsession. They capture the magic of an old-school float—bubbly cola, creamy vanilla ice cream, and juicy cherries—spun into a pop you can pull from the freezer any time you want a cool, refreshing bite. Effortless to make and impossible to resist, this recipe is pure happiness on a stick!
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Cherry Cola Mixture:
- 1 1/2 cups cherry cola (regular or diet)
- 1/2 cup cherry juice or cherry soda
Vanilla Ice Cream Mix:
- 1/2 cup vanilla ice cream (softened)
- 1/2 cup chopped maraschino cherries (plus a few whole for garnish, optional)
How to Make Frozen Cherry Cola Float Pops
Step 1: Mix the Cola Base
Start by combining the cherry cola and cherry juice (or cherry soda) in a medium bowl or large measuring cup with a spout. The soda will bubble a little, so stir gently to blend but keep the fizz alive—it helps create that classic float sensation.
Step 2: Swirl in the Ice Cream
Add the softened vanilla ice cream to your fizzy mixture and use a spoon to gently swirl it through. Aim for a marbled effect instead of a completely blended mix; those soft pockets of ice cream are what give Frozen Cherry Cola Float Pops their classic float-in-a-glass personality.
Step 3: Add Cherries
Fold in the chopped maraschino cherries so they’re evenly distributed. If you’re going for maximum fun (and who isn’t?), drop a whole maraschino cherry into each popsicle mold for a sweet little surprise that everyone will love.
Step 4: Pour and Freeze
Carefully pour the mixture into popsicle molds, leaving a small gap at the top for expansion while freezing. Slide popsicle sticks into position, then transfer to the freezer. Let your Frozen Cherry Cola Float Pops chill for at least 6 hours or until completely solid. Patience is hard, but so worth it!
Step 5: Release and Enjoy
To free the finished pops from their molds, briefly run them under warm water (just a few seconds will do the trick). Gently wiggle the sticks, and marvel at your beautiful, float-inspired creations!
How to Serve Frozen Cherry Cola Float Pops
Garnishes
Give your pops a little pizzazz by garnishing them with an extra maraschino cherry on top or a quick dip in crushed graham crackers for a twist. Even a drizzle of melted chocolate or a dusting of edible glitter will make these Frozen Cherry Cola Float Pops party-perfect.
Side Dishes
Pair these pops with fresh strawberries, watermelon wedges, or a light summer salad for a balanced backyard snack plate. They also make a stellar sidekick to grilled burgers and hot dogs at a retro-inspired cookout.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve your Frozen Cherry Cola Float Pops standing in a bowl of crushed ice, or add colorful paper straws to the sticks for vintage soda shop flair. For parties, arrange them on a chilled platter lined with pink or red napkins, and watch them disappear in a flash!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover pops can be kept right in the mold or transferred to a freezer-safe bag or container. Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to keep them from sticking together.
Freezing
These pops will stay in peak condition in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just make sure they’re well-sealed to avoid picking up any freezer odors. You can even make a double batch for those spur-of-the-moment cravings!
Reheating
With Frozen Cherry Cola Float Pops, there’s no reheating involved—just let them sit at room temperature for a minute or two to soften enough for the perfect bite. If they freeze ultra-hard, use the warm water trick to coax them out of the molds gently.
FAQs
Can I use regular cola instead of cherry cola?
Absolutely! While cherry cola adds a little extra fruity punch, any cola will work beautifully—just expect a more classic root beer float vibe.
What’s the best way to soften vanilla ice cream for this recipe?
Leave the ice cream on the counter for 10 to 15 minutes, or microwave in short 10-second bursts until scoopable but still thick. You want it to swirl, not melt completely!
Are Frozen Cherry Cola Float Pops suitable for vegans?
Yes! Swap in your favorite dairy-free vanilla ice cream to make these pops entirely plant-based, and use a vegan-friendly cherry cola and cherry juice.
Can I add alcohol for an adults-only version?
For a fun twist, stir in a splash of cherry liqueur or bourbon before pouring into molds. They taste like a grown-up float but be aware they may freeze slightly softer, so eat with care!
How do I prevent ice crystals in my popsicles?
Make sure the ice cream is fully softened and gently mix the ingredients for a creamy texture. A tight seal in the freezer also helps keep pops super smooth and delicious.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so joyful about transforming classic dessert flavors into a handheld treat—and these Frozen Cherry Cola Float Pops are bound to steal the spotlight at any summer gathering. Invite friends, gather around the freezer, and make a batch that delivers pure, fizzy, cherry-vanilla bliss every single time. Try them once, and you’ll want a stash on hand all summer long!
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Frozen Cherry Cola Float Pops Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours (including freezing time)
- Yield: 6 pops 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cool off with these nostalgic Frozen Cherry Cola Float Pops, a delightful summer treat that combines the flavors of cherry cola, vanilla ice cream, and maraschino cherries in a frozen dessert on a stick.
Ingredients
Cherry Cola Mixture:
- 1 1/2 cups cherry cola (regular or diet)
- 1/2 cup cherry juice or cherry soda
Vanilla Ice Cream Mix:
- 1/2 cup vanilla ice cream (softened)
- 1/2 cup chopped maraschino cherries (plus a few whole for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Cherry Cola Mixture: In a medium bowl or measuring cup with a spout, combine the cherry cola and cherry juice.
- Add Cherries: Fold in the chopped maraschino cherries.
- Fill Molds: Pour the mixture into popsicle molds, leaving a little room at the top for expansion. Drop a whole maraschino cherry into each mold for a fun surprise if desired.
- Freeze: Insert sticks and freeze for at least 6 hours or until fully set.
- Serve: To release, run the molds under warm water for a few seconds.
Gently stir in the softened vanilla ice cream until slightly mixed but still a bit swirly for a float-like texture.
Notes
- Use dairy-free vanilla ice cream to make it vegan.
- For a boozy version, add a splash of cherry liqueur or bourbon.
- These popsicles make a nostalgic and refreshing summer treat for both kids and adults.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Freezing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pop
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
