Rebel Float Spiced Pear Soda

This creamy spiced pear soda float is a playful dessert drink blending fizzy ginger ale, sweet ripe pear nectar, and warm cinnamon with a cloud of vanilla ice cream. In just five minutes you can whip up a cozy treat that feels both nostalgic and refreshing, perfect for celebrating changing seasons or simply treating yourself after dinner.

I first made this during a quiet autumn afternoon and the cozy aroma made me feel like a kid again mixing my own soda floats at home. Now it is my go to for fall movie nights with friends or a speedy treat on cloudy days.

Ingredients

• Pear nectar: brings juicy real fruit flavor. Make sure you choose one without added sugar or from concentrate for best taste
• Ginger ale: adds sparkle and a bit of spicy zip. Try choosing a ginger ale with real ginger for brighter flavor
• Cinnamon sticks: infuse gentle warmth and make a pretty garnish. Fresh sticks are best for maximum aroma
• Pear slices: create an elegant look and let you snack while you sip. Use firm ripe pears without blemishes for clean slices
• Vanilla ice cream: gives luscious sweetness and creamy texture. Look for vanilla bean ice cream if you want little flecks and extra richness
• Dairy free or plant based vanilla ice cream: if you want a vegan option

Instructions

Step one:

Build your chilled soda base. Pour half a cup of pear nectar and half a cup of ginger ale into each serving glass. Stir gently to combine without flattening the bubbles.

Step two:

Infuse with fresh garnishes. Place a cinnamon stick and two pear slices into each glass. Allow the cinnamon to slowly release its aroma into the drink.

Step three:

Add the creamy float. Scoop a generous ball of vanilla ice cream into each glass right before serving. You want it to float on top but melt slightly into the soda for swirls of flavor.

Step four:

Finish and enjoy. Serve right away with a straw or long spoon to scoop up the creamy soda. Pair with extra pear slices if you like.

Save

I love using homemade pear nectar when my tree is overloaded in late summer and it always reminds me of kitchen days with my grandmother slicing fruit. Cinnamon is my favorite part because it turns each sip into a cozy hug especially as it infuses longer.

Storage Tips

This float is best enjoyed immediately because the ice cream will melt and the soda can lose its fizz if left too long. Prep your garnishes in advance and chill your glasses to keep everything frosty while you work.

Ingredient Substitutions

If ginger ale is not available swap for sparkling apple cider for a different but delightful twist. Swap the cinnamon stick for a star anise if you want a sweeter spiced note. For the nectar fresh pear juice or white grape juice also works in a pinch.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a cinnamon sugar rim on the glass for a pretty sparkle. Add a splash of lemon juice to the soda base to brighten and balance the sweetness. Top with whipped cream and a little grated nutmeg for a decadent party treat.

Cultural and Seasonal Notes

Pear sodas and floats have roots in vintage soda fountain traditions where fruit and spice met creamy ice cream for soda shop magic. This version is perfect for fall and winter when pears are at their peak and everyone craves warming flavors. In spring I sometimes swap the pear for strawberries or rhubarb for a fresh twist.

Seasonal Adaptations

Choose Asian pears in early fall for extra crunch. Try infusing the ginger ale with fresh ginger root for a punchier flavor profile. Dress up for holidays by using cinnamon ice cream and a sprinkle of edible gold dust.

Success Stories

One chilly Halloween I made a big batch of these floats for trick or treaters and not a single glass was left behind. Kids love to add their own ice cream and pick out extra pear slices as a bonus snack. It is still my most requested autumn treat and friends always ask for the recipe.

Freezer Meal Conversion

Though not a true make ahead freezer recipe you can pre scoop ice cream balls onto a parchment lined tray and freeze until ready to serve. Slice pears and store in a little lemon water in the fridge. Combine right before guests arrive for nearly instant floats.

Save

This soda float is easy, festive, and always a crowd pleaser. Mix one up for yourself or share it at your next gathering to bring some nostalgic joy to the table.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use fresh pears instead of pear nectar?

Yes, you can blend fresh, ripe pears and strain the juice for a natural pear flavor, though it may be less sweet than nectar.

→ What type of ginger ale works best?

A classic, not-too-sweet ginger ale complements the pear and cinnamon without overpowering. Use your favorite brand or try a bold ginger beer for extra spice.

→ Is there a vegan option?

Simply swap in dairy-free vanilla ice cream for a creamy vegan float without changing the flavors dramatically.

→ How do I enhance the flavors?

A splash of lemon juice or extra fresh pear slices add brightness. A dusting of ground cinnamon also boosts warmth.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

The drink is best served immediately to keep the ice cream frosty and bubbly, but ingredients can be prepped in advance for quick assembly.

→ What glassware is best for serving?

Chilled serving glasses or dessert glasses help hold the float’s temperature and presentation, allowing for playful layers.