Raspberry Mint Mojito Rebel Float

Last summer my friend Sarah brought over a pitcher of these floats for our rooftop potluck and honestly I have not stopped thinking about them since. The way the vanilla ice cream melts into that tangy raspberry mint mixture creates this gorgeous swirled effect that tastes like summer in a glass.

I made these for my nieces last weekend and they were completely mesmerized watching the ice cream float on top. My younger niece kept saying it looks like a magic potion and honestly she is not wrong.

Ingredients

• Fresh raspberries: Frozen raspberries work in a pinch but fresh ones really do give you that bright tart pop that cuts through the sweet ice cream
• Fresh mint leaves: Do not skip the muddling step because releasing those oils is what gives you that authentic mojito flavor
• Lime wedges: Roll the lime on the counter before cutting to get more juice out
• Simple syrup: You can make this ahead of time with equal parts sugar and water heated until dissolved
• Lemon lime soda: Club soda makes it lighter but the lemon lime version adds that nostalgic cream soda vibe
• Vanilla ice cream: Let it sit on the counter for five minutes before scooping so it melts into the drink more easily

Instructions

Muddle your base:

Press down and twist with the muddler to really crush those raspberries and release the mint oils until you can smell the fresh herbs

Add the fizz:

Pour in the soda and sparkling water gently so you do not lose too much carbonation

Prep the glasses:

Get your ice cream scoops ready first so the drink does not sit too long before pouring

Combine everything:

Pour the raspberry mixture slowly over the ice cream and watch the colors swirl together

Finish it off:

Give it one gentle stir with a spoon to marble everything and top with a fresh mint sprig

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My neighbor texted me the next day after I dropped some off asking for the recipe which is basically the highest compliment I can imagine. These floats have become my go to when I want to impress people with almost zero effort.

Making It Non Alcoholic

Omitting the rum does not change the flavor profile at all. The lime and mint give it plenty of complexity so nobody will miss anything.

Playing With Flavors

Lemon sorbet instead of vanilla ice cream makes it incredibly refreshing and lighter on the palate. Coconut ice cream adds this tropical twist that pairs unexpectedly well with raspberries.

Presentation Matters

Clear glasses show off those beautiful marbled layers as the ice cream melts. I like to keep some extra mint leaves and whole raspberries on hand for garnish because something about a pretty drink makes it taste better.

• Use a long spoon for stirring so guests can reach the bottom
• Chill your glasses in the freezer beforehand for extra frosty vibes
• Have straws ready because you will want both sipping and spooning

Save

These floats are proof that the best recipes sometimes come from throwing two good things together and seeing what happens. Here is to summer in a glass.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I make this float ahead of time?

Prepare the muddled raspberry-mint mixture up to 2 hours in advance and refrigerate. Add the soda and ice cream just before serving to maintain fizz and prevent melting.

→ What's the best soda to use?

Lemon-lime soda like Sprite adds sweetness, while club soda keeps it lighter. Sparkling water works for minimal sweetness. Choose based on your preference for sugary versus crisp profiles.

→ How do I muddle without a muddler?

A wooden spoon handle works perfectly—press and twist gently to crush raspberries and release mint oils without shredding the leaves. Avoid over-muddling which can make mint bitter.

→ Can I use frozen raspberries?

Fresh berries work best for texture, but thawed frozen raspberries can substitute. Expect slightly softer consistency and adjust simple syrup since frozen fruit may taste less tart.

→ What other ice cream flavors pair well?

Lemon sorbet brightens the citrus notes, coconut cream adds tropical depth, or strawberry ice cream amplifies the berry flavors. Dairy-free options work beautifully too.

→ How do I make it for a crowd?

Multiply ingredients and prepare the base in a large pitcher. Serve family-style in a punch bowl with ice cream added individually, or set up a DIY bar with scoops and garnishes.