If you’ve been dreaming of a dessert that’s equal parts playful, refreshing, and nostalgic, the Cream Soda Float with Rainbow Sherbet is the one you need to try. This whimsical float blends fizzy, buttery cream soda with the tart, fruity swirls of rainbow sherbet, topping the whole concoction off with whipped cream and a dusting of bright sprinkles. It’s the kind of treat that feels like a celebration in a glass, instantly transporting you to childhood summers and festive afternoons. Whether you’re serving it up for a party or just as a special weeknight indulgence, this recipe promises a burst of flavor, color, and fun with every spoonful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Cream Soda Float with Rainbow Sherbet is how effortless it is to make, using just a handful of ingredients. Every item plays an important role in delivering that trademark creamy, fizzy magic, while also dialing up the color and pure joy in each glass.
- Rainbow Sherbet: The star of this float, rainbow sherbet brings a juicy punch of citrus and berry flavors along with irresistible pastel swirls for extra visual fun.
- Cream Soda: Choose a quality cream soda—its smooth vanilla notes and gentle fizz provide the perfect base for your float.
- Whipped Cream (optional): A generous cloud of whipped cream on top makes every sip extra indulgent.
- Rainbow Sprinkles (optional): For a pop of color and playful crunch, don’t skip a pinch of rainbow sprinkles!
How to Make Cream Soda Float with Rainbow Sherbet
Step 1: Chill Your Glass
Start by popping your tall glass in the freezer for five to ten minutes. This little trick helps keep your Cream Soda Float with Rainbow Sherbet perfectly cold and slows down how fast the sherbet melts—ideal for savoring every last bubbly, creamy sip.
Step 2: Scoop the Rainbow Sherbet
Using an ice cream scoop, add two big, cheerful scoops of rainbow sherbet to your chilled glass. Try to nestle them one on top of the other for that playful layered look. The blend of colors looks stunning against the glass, promising an equally exciting taste.
Step 3: Pour in the Cream Soda
Slowly pour your chilled cream soda over the sherbet, giving it time to fizz up gently. This is where all the magic happens! The soda will bubble up around the sherbet, creating an irresistible frothy cap and swirling the colors together.
Step 4: Add Whipped Cream and Sprinkles
If you’re feeling fancy (and why not?), top your float with a generous swirl of whipped cream. Finish with a sprinkle of rainbow sprinkles for the ultimate joyful dessert drink. Both kids and adults will want to dive right in!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy Immediately
Don’t wait—these floats are best enjoyed the moment they’re made, while the sherbet is cold and the soda still sparkles. Hand out long spoons and pastel straws for the perfect finishing touch.
How to Serve Cream Soda Float with Rainbow Sherbet

Garnishes
A Cream Soda Float with Rainbow Sherbet is all about the wow factor, so don’t skimp on the toppings! Whipped cream and rainbow sprinkles are classic, but you could even add a twisty wafer cookie or a few edible flowers for extra charm, especially if you want to impress guests or snap a photo.
Side Dishes
While these floats are plenty sweet on their own, they pair beautifully with buttery shortbread cookies or salty pretzel sticks. The contrast keeps things fun and munchable, perfect for parties or summer afternoons on the porch.
Creative Ways to Present
For an extra-special presentation, serve your Cream Soda Float with Rainbow Sherbet in mason jars or vintage soda glasses. Use pastel straws or gold-rimmed spoons for a touch of nostalgia. If you’re making floats for a crowd, set up a DIY float station with assorted sherbet flavors and a variety of toppings so everyone can customize their own dreamy dessert.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Floats like this one are best enjoyed fresh, but if you find yourself with a little left over, you can refrigerate it for a short time (up to an hour). Just remember, the sherbet will melt and mix with the soda, making it more like a colorful, creamy drink.
Freezing
If you want to make the floats slightly in advance, scoop the sherbet into glasses and freeze them without soda or toppings. Add the cream soda and garnishes right before serving so your Cream Soda Float with Rainbow Sherbet stays perfectly fizzy and cold.
Reheating
No reheating needed for this cool treat! If your float has melted too much, just add an extra scoop of sherbet and a splash of cold soda to freshen it up instantly.
FAQs
Can I use a different flavor of soda instead of cream soda?
Absolutely! While cream soda brings a lovely vanilla sweetness, ginger ale, lemon-lime soda, or even orange soda can offer a fun twist. The playful sherbet flavors will still shine through, making every combination delightful.
Do I have to use rainbow sherbet, or are other flavors okay?
Rainbow sherbet is the classic choice for its eye-catching colors and fruity blend, but if you prefer just one flavor—like raspberry or lime—feel free to swap it in. The important part is that the flavor pairs well with the creamy soda base.
Is it possible to make a dairy-free or vegan version?
Yes! Many brands offer dairy-free or vegan rainbow sherbet and whipped topping alternatives. For the cream soda, double-check the ingredients, but most are naturally vegan for a fully plant-based Cream Soda Float with Rainbow Sherbet.
What’s the best way to keep the float from overflowing?
Pour your soda slowly and gently over the sherbet, letting the bubbles settle before topping up. Giving your glass a bit of space at the top can also save you from spills and ensures your whip and sprinkles won’t topple off!
Can I make this for a crowd?
Definitely! The Cream Soda Float with Rainbow Sherbet multiplies beautifully. Just line up your glasses, scoop the sherbet in advance, and add the fizzy soda and toppings when guests are ready. It’s a hit at birthday parties, summer BBQs, or anyone in need of a little edible cheer.
Final Thoughts
I can’t think of a better way to add a splash of joy to your day than with a Cream Soda Float with Rainbow Sherbet. This cheery, fizzy treat is bound to make even the simplest moments feel like a celebration. Give it a try, let your creativity run wild with the toppings, and enjoy every happy, creamy sip!
Print
Cream Soda Float with Rainbow Sherbet Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A nostalgic soda float reimagined with pastel rainbow sherbet and fizzy cream soda—sweet, fizzy, and photogenic.
Ingredients
Rainbow Sherbet:
- 2 scoops rainbow sherbet
Cream Soda Float:
- 1 cup chilled cream soda
Toppings (Optional):
- Whipped cream
- Rainbow sprinkles
Instructions
- Layer the Rainbow Sherbet: In a tall chilled glass, layer 2 scoops of rainbow sherbet.
- Pour in the Cream Soda: Slowly pour in cream soda to create a soft fizz.
- Add Toppings: Add whipped cream and a dash of rainbow sprinkles if desired.
- Serve: Serve immediately with a long spoon and pastel straw.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: ~250 kcal
- Sugar: High (from sherbet and soda)
- Sodium: Varies
- Fat: Low (from sherbet)
- Saturated Fat: Low (from sherbet)
- Unsaturated Fat: Low (from sherbet)
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: High
- Fiber: Low
- Protein: Low
- Cholesterol: Varies