As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have to say that there is a lot of debate surrounding the age-old question of what goes first in a float: the ice cream or the root beer. The truth is, there is no definitive right or wrong answer. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired outcome of your float experience.
However, I can offer some insights and suggestions based on my own experiences and knowledge. When it comes to creating the perfect float, it's all about achieving the ideal balance of creamy ice cream and fizzy root beer, while also preventing any overflow. So, here's what I recommend:
1. Start by selecting your favorite mug or beer stein. The vessel you choose can have an impact on the overall float experience, so pick one that you find aesthetically pleasing and comfortable to hold.
2. Scoop a generous amount of vanilla ice cream into the mug. The amount will depend on the size of your mug and how creamy you want your float to be. Personally, I like to fill the mug about three-quarters full with ice cream, but you can adjust this to your liking.
3. Once you have the ice cream in the mug, it's time to firmly press it down. This helps to create a solid foundation for the root beer to be poured over, and it also prevents the ice cream from floating to the top too quickly.
4. Now comes the crucial moment: adding the fizzy root beer. To prevent overflowing and create a creamy texture, it is generally recommended to pour the root beer slowly over the pressed ice cream. This allows the carbonation to mix with the ice cream more evenly and reduces the risk of excessive foam or overflow. Take your time and pour the root beer in a controlled manner.
5. As you pour the root beer, you may notice some foaming and bubbling. This is completely normal and adds to the charm of the float. However, if you find that the foam is getting too high, pause for a moment and let it settle before continuing to pour.
6. Once you have poured the desired amount of root beer, you can give it a gentle stir with a spoon or straw to mix the flavors together. Some people prefer to leave the ice cream and root beer separate, allowing for a more distinct contrast in flavors and textures. Again, this is a matter of personal preference.
7. it's time to enjoy your float! Take a moment to appreciate the creamy, fizzy goodness in front of you. Sip it slowly, allowing the flavors to meld together and the ice cream to melt slightly, creating a delightful combination of sweet and carbonated sensations.
Whether you choose to add the ice cream or the root beer first in a float is entirely up to you. However, following the method I've outlined above can help you achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures, while also preventing any messy overflow. Ultimately, the most important thing is to savor every sip and enjoy the indulgent treat that is a float. Cheers!