This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.
Imagine sitting back and relaxing with a refreshing, easy-to-make treat that combines the richness of Guinness with the creamy sweetness of ice cream. This Guinness Float recipe is just that – a delightful blend that brings together the bold flavors of Guinness beer and the classic taste of ice cream, all topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate syrup. Perfect for a relaxing evening or a unique dessert option, this recipe is a fun twist on traditional floats.
If you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with a Guinness Float, why not complete your festive menu with more of our single serving recipes? Try our hearty Irish Stew, creamy Colcannon, and crusty Irish Soda Bread, each perfectly portioned for a delightful meal for one. These recipes are designed to bring traditional Irish flavors to your table, making your celebration both authentic and enjoyable.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and comes together in just a few minutes. Perfect for a quick and satisfying treat.
- Rich and Refreshing: The rich, coffee-like undertones of stout beer, such as Guinness, blend wonderfully with rich and creamy ice cream.
- Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different ice cream flavors like vanilla, chocolate, caramel, or coffee.
- Perfect Single Serving: This recipe is easily halved, doubled, or tripled depending on how many you’re serving.
- Great Conversation Starter: This unique dessert is sure to spark curiosity and conversation among your guests.
Ingredients
- Ice Cream: Vanilla ice cream is my top pick for this recipe. However, you have the option to switch it up with chocolate ice cream, caramel, or coffee ice cream if you prefer. Consider using leftover ice cream to make a refreshing Shamrock Shake.
- Guinness Stout: Essential for this float, any variety of Guinness works well. My personal recommendation is the Extra Stout for its rich flavor. Got extra Guinness? Use some in our hearty Irish Stew.
- Whipped Cream: You can use store-bought for convenience, or make your own whipped cream for a more decadent touch.
- Chocolate Syrup: Feel free to use a flavored syrup like caramel or hazelnut for a different flavor profile.
Recipe Variation: Make a Bailey’s Guinness Irish Float by using coffee ice cream and a drizzle of Bailey’s Irish Cream for a boozy twist.
How To Make A Guinness Float
- Start by adding the ice cream to a tall glass.
- Drizzle some chocolate syrup over the ice cream.
- Carefully pour the Guinness into the glass, allowing it to foam up. Let the foam settle before pouring a bit more Guinness in.
- Finish by generously topping the float with whipped cream and another hefty drizzle of chocolate syrup.
Expert Tips
- Chill The Glass: Serve your float in a chilled glass to keep it cool longer.
- Pour Guinness Slowly: To reduce foam, pour the beer slowly against the inside of the glass.
- Adjust Proportions: Feel free to adjust the beer and ice cream ratio to your taste.
- Don’t Be Shy With The Chocolate Syrup: It helps tie the flavors together.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy your float right after making it for the best experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
While Guinness is the classic choice, you can experiment with other dark beers like porters or stouts. Just make sure they have a similar roasted flavor profile.
While traditional Guinness Floats contain alcohol, try a non-alcoholic stout or non-alcoholic Guinness for a similar flavor profile.
Pour the Guinness slowly.
Try nuts, chocolate chips, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for extra flair.
Ways To Use Leftover Ingredients
If you have any ingredients leftover from this recipe, check out our Leftover Ingredients Recipe Finder or you might like to consider using them in any of these single serving and small batch recipes:
If you’ve tried this Guinness Float or any recipe on One Dish Kitchen please let me know how you liked it by rating the recipe and telling me about it in the comment section below.
If you take a picture please tag us on Instagram (@onedishkitchen) we’d love to see!
Guinness Float
Equipment
- Tall glass
Ingredients
- 2 large scoops vanilla ice cream
- 2 tablespoons chocolate syrup , divided
- 1 (12-ounce bottle) Guinness stout
- 2-3 tablespoons whipped cream
Instructions
- Add the ice cream to a tall glass. Make sure the glass is big enough to hold everything comfortably, including the foamy Guinness head.
- Next, drizzle 1 tablespoon of chocolate syrup over the ice cream.
- Slowly pour the Guinness into the glass. Let the foam settle a bit before continuing. Once the foam subsides, top up the glass with the remaining Guinness.
- Finally, top with whipped cream and drizzle with the rest of the chocolate syrup. Don't be afraid to add a little extra if you're a chocolate-lover!
Notes
- Chill the Glass: Serve your float in a chilled glass to keep it cool longer.
- Pour Guinness Slowly: To reduce foam, pour the beer slowly against the inside of the glass.
- Adjust Proportions: Feel free to adjust the beer and ice cream ratio to your taste.
- Don’t Be Shy With The Chocolate Syrup: It helps tie the flavors together.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy your float right after making it for the best experience.
Nutrition
The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.
Might have 2 – don’t want to waster the rest of the Guinness can.
Made one for myself tonight. Wonderful. Thank you.
Best dessert ever!!
OMG. It’s the grown-up version of a root beer float. I can’t wait to try one.