The cream soda float is a beloved dessert that has been enjoyed by people of all ages for generations. It’s a simple yet delicious treat that consists of a scoop of vanilla ice cream floating in a glass of cream soda. But have you ever wondered what this tasty drink is called? In this article, we’ll explore the history of the cream soda float, its various names, and why it’s a classic dessert that continues to be enjoyed today.
A Brief History of the Cream Soda Float
The cream soda float has its roots in the late 19th century, when cream soda was first introduced. Cream soda was a type of soda water that was flavored with vanilla and other ingredients to give it a creamy taste. It quickly became popular, and people began experimenting with different ways to enjoy it. One of the most popular ways to enjoy cream soda was to add a scoop of vanilla ice cream to the glass. The ice cream would float on top of the soda, creating a delicious and refreshing treat.
The Birth of the Cream Soda Float
The cream soda float is often attributed to Frank J. Wisner, a soda fountain operator in Colorado Springs, Colorado. According to legend, Wisner invented the cream soda float in 1893, when he accidentally dropped a scoop of vanilla ice cream into a glass of cream soda. The resulting drink was an instant hit, and soon people were coming from all over to try Wisner’s new creation.
What is a Cream Soda Float Called?
So, what is a cream soda float called? The answer to this question is not as simple as it seems. While the drink is commonly known as a cream soda float, it’s also known by other names in different parts of the country. Here are a few examples:
- Brown Cow: In some parts of the United States, a cream soda float is known as a Brown Cow. This name is thought to have originated from the drink’s brown color, which is created by the combination of the cream soda and vanilla ice cream.
- Dirty Soda: In other parts of the country, a cream soda float is known as a Dirty Soda. This name is thought to have originated from the fact that the drink is “dirty” or contaminated with ice cream.
- Float: In some parts of the country, a cream soda float is simply known as a Float. This name is thought to have originated from the fact that the ice cream floats on top of the soda.
Regional Variations
In addition to these names, there are also regional variations of the cream soda float. For example:
- In the Northeast, a cream soda float is often made with birch beer instead of cream soda. Birch beer is a type of soda that is flavored with birch bark and has a distinctive wintergreen flavor.
- In the South, a cream soda float is often made with vanilla ice cream and a splash of lemon-lime soda. This gives the drink a slightly different flavor profile than the traditional cream soda float.
Why is the Cream Soda Float a Classic Dessert?
So, why is the cream soda float a classic dessert that continues to be enjoyed today? Here are a few reasons:
- Simple yet Delicious: The cream soda float is a simple yet delicious dessert that is easy to make and enjoy. It’s a great way to cool off on a hot summer day, and it’s a treat that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
- Nostalgic Appeal: The cream soda float has a nostalgic appeal that is hard to resist. It’s a drink that many people remember enjoying as children, and it’s a great way to relive fond memories of the past.
- Customizable: The cream soda float is a highly customizable dessert that can be made with a variety of different ingredients. For example, you can use different flavors of ice cream or soda to create a unique taste experience.
How to Make a Cream Soda Float
Making a cream soda float is easy. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 1 scoop of vanilla ice cream
- 1 glass of cream soda
- Whipped cream and a cherry (optional)
Instructions:
- Fill a glass with ice.
- Pour in the cream soda.
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream to the glass.
- Top with whipped cream and a cherry, if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Conclusion
In conclusion, the cream soda float is a delicious and classic dessert that has been enjoyed by people of all ages for generations. Whether you call it a cream soda float, a Brown Cow, or a Dirty Soda, this drink is a treat that is sure to please. So next time you’re looking for a cool and refreshing dessert, consider making a cream soda float. Your taste buds will thank you!
Fun Facts About Cream Soda Floats
- The world’s largest cream soda float was made in 2014 and contained over 1,000 gallons of cream soda and 500 gallons of ice cream.
- Cream soda floats are a popular treat at amusement parks and carnivals.
- The cream soda float is a popular dessert in many countries around the world, including the United States, Canada, and Australia.
| Year | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1893 | Frank J. Wisner invents the cream soda float | Colorado Springs, Colorado |
| 2014 | World’s largest cream soda float is made | Chicago, Illinois |
Note: The table above provides a brief timeline of the history of the cream soda float.
What is a cream soda float?
A cream soda float is a classic dessert drink that consists of a scoop of vanilla ice cream floating in a glass of cream soda. The combination of the sweet and creamy ice cream with the fizzy and slightly sweet cream soda creates a unique and delicious flavor experience. The drink is typically served in a tall glass and garnished with a sprinkle of nutmeg or a cherry on top.
The origins of the cream soda float are unclear, but it is believed to have been invented in the late 19th or early 20th century in the United States. During this time, cream soda was a popular flavor of soda water, and ice cream was becoming increasingly popular as a dessert treat. It’s likely that someone experimented with combining the two and discovered the delicious combination that we know and love today.
What is the history of cream soda?
Cream soda has a long and rich history that dates back to the mid-19th century. The first cream soda was invented in the 1850s by James W. Tufts, a pharmacist in Massachusetts. Tufts created a soda water that was flavored with vanilla and other ingredients, which he called “cream soda.” The drink quickly became popular, and other manufacturers began to produce their own versions of cream soda.
Over time, cream soda became a staple of American soda culture, with many different brands and flavors emerging. In the early 20th century, cream soda was often served at soda fountains and ice cream parlors, where it was paired with ice cream to create the classic cream soda float. Today, cream soda is still enjoyed by people all over the world, and it remains a popular flavor of soda water.
How do I make a cream soda float?
Making a cream soda float is easy and requires just a few ingredients. To start, you’ll need a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a glass of cream soda. You can use any type of cream soda you like, but traditional cream soda is the most authentic choice. Simply place the scoop of ice cream in the glass and pour the cream soda over it.
You can also customize your cream soda float to your taste by adding different toppings or flavorings. Some popular options include whipped cream, sprinkles, and a cherry on top. You can also try using different flavors of ice cream or soda to create unique variations on the classic cream soda float.
What are some variations on the classic cream soda float?
While the classic cream soda float is a timeless treat, there are many variations that you can try to mix things up. One popular option is to use different flavors of ice cream, such as chocolate or strawberry. You can also try using different flavors of soda, such as root beer or ginger ale.
Another option is to add different toppings or mix-ins to your cream soda float. Some popular choices include whipped cream, sprinkles, and chopped nuts. You can also try adding a shot of espresso or a splash of liqueur to create a more adult version of the cream soda float.
Is cream soda still widely available?
While cream soda was once a staple of American soda culture, it is not as widely available as it once was. Many major soda manufacturers have discontinued their cream soda brands, and it can be difficult to find in stores. However, there are still many smaller manufacturers and craft soda makers that produce cream soda, and it can often be found at specialty stores or online.
If you’re having trouble finding cream soda in stores, you can also try making your own at home. There are many recipes available online that use natural ingredients and flavorings to create a homemade version of cream soda.
Can I make a cream soda float with diet cream soda?
Yes, you can make a cream soda float with diet cream soda. While traditional cream soda is sweetened with sugar, diet cream soda uses artificial sweeteners to reduce the calorie count. This makes it a good option for people who are watching their weight or managing diabetes.
Keep in mind that diet cream soda may have a slightly different flavor profile than traditional cream soda, so you may need to adjust the amount of ice cream or other toppings you use to get the taste just right. However, many people find that diet cream soda works just as well as traditional cream soda in a cream soda float.
Is a cream soda float a healthy treat?
Unfortunately, a cream soda float is not a particularly healthy treat. The combination of ice cream and soda water makes it high in calories, sugar, and fat. A single serving of a cream soda float can range from 300 to 500 calories, depending on the size of the scoop and the type of soda used.
However, it’s also important to remember that treats are a part of life, and it’s okay to indulge every now and then. If you’re looking for a healthier version of the cream soda float, you can try using lower-fat ice cream or reducing the amount of soda used. You can also try making a “float” with seltzer water and a squeeze of fresh fruit for a lighter and more refreshing option.