Smoked Cherry Cola Bourbon Float
Cherry syrup, bourbon, and fizzy cola turn a scoop of vanilla ice cream into a cool road-trip float with a smoky finish.
Prep: 5 · Cook: 7 · Total: 12 · Serves: 2 · Difficulty: Easy · Rating: 4.7/5 (72 reviews)
INSPIRED BY
This original float gives cherry cola a smoky bourbon backbone and a sharp lemon lift. Vanilla ice cream makes the finish creamy, fizzy, and a little nostalgic.
Story
Theo likes a drink that takes the scenic route straight to dessert. Cherry syrup brings the color, bourbon brings the low rumble, and cola keeps the glass lively. Drop in the ice cream last and let the foam make its entrance.
By Theo
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup pitted frozen cherries
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
- 3 ounces bourbon
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 8 ounces chilled cola
- 2 small scoops vanilla ice cream
- Maraschino cherries, for garnish
Instructions
- Simmer the cherries, sugar, and water in a small saucepan for 5 minutes until the fruit softens and the syrup turns ruby red.
- Strain the syrup into a measuring cup and cool it for 2 minutes, pressing the cherries to release their juice.
- Stir the bourbon, lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons of cherry syrup in a small pitcher.
- Fill two tall glasses with ice, divide the bourbon mixture between them, and top each with chilled cola.
- Add one scoop of vanilla ice cream to each glass and let the foam settle for a moment.
- Garnish with a cherry and serve with a straw and a long spoon for the melting float.
Chef Tips
- Use frozen cherries for a fast syrup with concentrated flavor.
- Cool the syrup briefly before adding it to the bourbon so the drink stays cold.
- Pour the cola slowly down the side of the glass to control the foam.
- For a zero-proof float, replace the bourbon with chilled black tea.
Cook's Notes
- **Syrup:** Press the softened cherries while straining.
- **Chill:** Cool the syrup briefly before mixing.
- **Cola:** Pour slowly to manage foam.
- **Finish:** Add ice cream just before serving.