When the sun's out, we're always looking for new ways to serve beer.
Sure, an ice-cold pint of SMALL BEER is hard to beat. But if you're hosting a barbecue, planning a garden party or simply looking for a fun summer dessert, there's one recipe that's guaranteed to surprise your guests: beer floats.
Think of them as the grown-up cousin of the classic root beer float. Full-flavoured beer, a generous scoop of ice cream (or sorbet), and a combination that's equal parts refreshing, indulgent and conversation-starting.
Here are our favourite beer float recipes to try this summer.
HAZY IPA & Mango Sorbet Float
Our HAZY IPA is packed with juicy citrus and tropical hop flavours, making mango sorbet the perfect partner.
As the sorbet melts, it adds bright fruitiness while keeping everything wonderfully light and refreshing.
Tastes like: sunshine, tropical holidays and one more round.
Try it with: M&S Mango Sorbet
STOUT & Madagascan Vanilla Ice Cream Float
Coffee. Chocolate. Vanilla.
Our STOUT already delivers rich roasted flavours, and a scoop of Madagascan vanilla ice cream transforms it into something that feels like dessert in a glass.
If you love an espresso martini, this one's for you (just without the late-night caffeine kick)
Try it with: No.1 Madagascan Vanilla Ice Cream from Waitrose.
LAGER & Olive Oil Ice Cream Float
This might sound unexpected, but trust us.
The silky texture of olive oil ice cream brings out the delicate, crisp character of our LAGER, creating a float that's surprisingly elegant and incredibly drinkable.
It's the pairing your dinner party guests won't stop talking about.
Try it with: M&S Collection Toscano Olive Oil West Country Ice Cream
AMBER & Pistachio Ice Cream Float
Caramelised malt and nutty pistachio are a match made in heaven.
Our AMBER brings gentle biscuit and caramel notes, while pistachio ice cream adds creamy sweetness and depth.
Rich enough for dessert, but still refreshing enough for summer.
Try it with: Hackney Gelato Pistachio from Waitrose.
How to Make the Perfect Beer Float
The beauty of a beer float is that there's no complicated recipe.
All you need is:
- A chilled glass
- One or two scoops of your chosen ice cream or sorbet
- A well-chilled SMALL BEER
- Gently place one or two scoops of your chosen ice cream or sorbet on top.
Top tip: Pour gently to keep the foam under control and let the flavours mingle naturally.
The Ultimate Summer Hosting Idea
Whether you're firing up the barbecue, celebrating with friends or looking for a new dessert to finish a summer meal, beer floats are guaranteed to get people talking.
They're easy to make, endlessly customisable and the perfect excuse to experiment with flavours you might never have paired otherwise.
So grab your favourite SMALL BEER, pick up a tub (or two) of ice cream and give them a go.
Who says beer is just for drinking?
Looking for more summer serving inspiration? Keep an eye on our blog and socials for more recipes, food pairings and seasonal ways to enjoy SMALL BEER.
