Caramel Apple Cider Float

This post goes out to all the fall-enthusiasts (like myself) who live in cities where “Autumn” is a mere myth. Sure I would love to make a cozy hot apple cider in my crock pot, but I was literally sweating from my short walk to brunch this morning so I don’t think a crackling autumn fire is in my near future. Los Angeles is still about 80 degrees and sunny, so I’m attempting to mix the summer and fall with this classic ice cream float!

If you haven’t heard, our new subscription box ENTERTAIN THE IDEA has launched! And we are now selling our Fall Special Preview box (AVAILABLE HERE)!!! We are so excited with all the products in this season’s box (probably biased considering it is my favorite season) and we think you are going to love to use them for all your fall festivities.

One product included in the box is the Chef Mel’s Pumpkin Spice Sugar Rim Spice Mix. I could literally spend all day just smelling this tin, but the spice mix is especially made to be used on the rim of your autumnal beverages. Read below for how to make this easy Caramel Apple Cider Float:

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Ingredients:

  • Chef Mel’s Pumpkin Spice Sugar Rim Spice Mix

  • 1 Orange

  • Vanilla Ice Cream

  • Apple Cider (I used Honeycrisp & I would highly recommend!!)

  • Whipped Cream (if you want to make your whipped cream from scratch you will also need heavy whipping cream, sugar, and vanilla)

  • Caramel sauce

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Step 1: I decided to make my whipped cream from scratch because it was a rare occasion where I actually had heavy whipping cream on hand for a different recipe and thought why not? (but Reddi-Whip would also be perfectly sufficient, no judgement coming from me!) Mix 1 cup of heavy whipping cream with 2 tablespoons of sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla. Using your hand mixer, whip the cream mixture for roughly 5 minutes or until the cream forms peaks when the whisk is removed from the bowl (this will make enough whipped cream for 3-4 floats). TIP: Store your mixing bowl and mixing whisk in the freezer for about 30 minutes before to help the cream fluff up.

Step 2: Using a slice of orange, circle the rim of the glass in orange juice to help the sugar stick. Coat the rim in an even layer of pumpkin spice sugar mix.

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Step 3: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream (or two!) to your glass. Fill the remainder of the glass with apple cider.

Step 4: Fill a piping bag with your homemade whipped cream and cover the top of your glass with a mound of sugary-goodness. Repeat this step with your caramel sauce for a beautiful drizzle.

Step 5: Add a last touch of pumpkin spice sugar to the top and you’re done! I also think some fall-themed sprinkles would look super cute atop the float!

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Is there anything more fall than a mix of pumpkin spice, caramel, vanilla, and apple cider? I think not. If you are hosting an upcoming Halloween party this week or looking to keep the fall spirit alive through Thanksgiving (Michael’s didn’t get the memo on that. Christmas has officially taken over the craft stores), then this drink is for you.

The float pairs perfectly with our Meri Meri black cat napkins (also included in this season’s Entertain the Idea Box!). Your guests are sure to be impressed by this festive combo!

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I love seeing how you all are using the products! Keep the photos coming #entertaintheidea #goldendaysoffall. Here’s an amazing photo from @atyndie who actually is enjoying a real-life fall evening with a warm apple cider, rimmed with pumpkin spice sugar! I will be living vicariously through this photo.

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I hope you all had a great Halloweekend! I’m currently binging Sabrina on Netflix and looking forward to spending the start of the work week scanning instagram for all the best costumes ;)

Happy Halloween! Cheers!

- Rachael