Introduction

This Irresistible Root Beer Float Jello combines the nostalgic flavors of a classic root beer float with a fun, jiggly twist. Perfect for parties or a refreshing dessert, this layered treat features a fizzy root beer gelatin base topped with a creamy vanilla ice cream layer.

Irresistible Root Beer Float Jello Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

2 envelopes Knox gelatin (approx. 4 tsp total)
1/2 cup cold water
1/2 cup boiling water
1/2 cup sugar
2 cups root beer (use a high-quality brand like A&W or Barq’s)
3 envelopes Knox gelatin
1/2 cup cold water
1 cup boiling water
1/4 cup sugar
2 cups vanilla ice cream

Instructions

Step 1: To make the root beer layer, sprinkle 2 envelopes of gelatin over 1/2 cup cold water and let it sit until absorbed and softened.
Step 2: Pour 1/2 cup boiling water over the gelatin and stir until completely dissolved.
Step 3: Add 1/2 cup sugar and 2 cups root beer to the mixture, stirring until the sugar dissolves fully.
Step 4: Pour this mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours until set.
Step 5: Once set, cut the root beer gelatin into cubes and transfer them to an 8×8 inch dish; keep refrigerated while preparing the ice cream layer.
Step 6: For the ice cream layer, sprinkle 3 envelopes of gelatin over 1/2 cup cold water and let it soften.
Step 7: Pour 1 cup boiling water over the gelatin, stirring until dissolved, then add 1/4 cup sugar and stir again; set this mixture aside.
Step 8: Melt 2 cups of vanilla ice cream in a small pot over medium heat or in the microwave until liquid.
Step 9: Stir the melted ice cream into the gelatin mixture and let it cool to room temperature.
Step 10: Pour the ice cream gelatin evenly over the root beer cubes in the dish and refrigerate overnight to fully set.
Step 11: Cut into cubes and serve chilled for a delicious no-melt root beer float treat!

Tips & Variations

Use a high-quality root beer brand for the best flavor impact.
For a fun twist, add a splash of bourbon or rum to the root beer layer for adults.
Replace vanilla ice cream with chocolate or caramel for a different flavor combination.
Ensure gelatin is fully dissolved to avoid grainy texture.

Storage

Store the jello float in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dessert is best enjoyed cold and does not freeze well. When ready to serve, cut into fresh cubes and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this dessert can be prepared the day before and refrigerated overnight. Allow enough time for both layers to fully set before serving.

Can I use a different soda instead of root beer?

While root beer gives the classic float flavor, you can experiment with other sodas like cream soda or cola, but it will change the overall taste of the dessert.

Irresistible Root Beer Float Jello Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 108 reviews

This Irresistible Root Beer Float Jello Recipe combines the nostalgic flavors of a classic root beer float into a fun, jiggly dessert. Featuring distinct layers of root beer gelatin and creamy vanilla ice cream gelatin, this recipe offers a playful twist on traditional desserts, perfect for parties or anytime you crave a cool, bubbly treat without the mess.

Author: Dana
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes (includes melting ice cream and dissolving gelatin)
Total Time: 12 hours 30 minutes (including refrigeration time)
Yield: 24 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Root Beer Layer

2 envelopes Knox gelatin (Approx. 4 tsp total)
1/2 cup cold water
1/2 cup boiling water
1/2 cup sugar
2 cups Root Beer (Use a high-quality brand like A&W or Barq’s)

Ice Cream Layer

3 envelopes Knox gelatin
1/2 cup cold water
1 cup boiling water
1/4 cup sugar
2 cups Vanilla Ice Cream

Instructions

Prepare Root Beer Gelatin: Sprinkle the 2 packets of gelatin over 1/2 cup cold water and let sit until absorbed and softened. Pour 1/2 cup boiling water over it and stir until fully dissolved.
Add Sugar and Root Beer: Stir in 1/2 cup sugar and 2 cups root beer until sugar is completely dissolved.
Set Root Beer Layer: Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours until firm.
Cut Root Beer Gelatin Cubes: Once set, cut into cubes and transfer to an 8×8 inch baking dish. Keep refrigerated while preparing the next layer.
Prepare Ice Cream Gelatin: Sprinkle 3 packets gelatin over 1/2 cup cold water and let it absorb and soften. Pour 1 cup boiling water over it and stir until dissolved. Add 1/4 cup sugar and stir to combine, then set aside.
Melt Ice Cream: Place 2 cups vanilla ice cream in a small pot and gently melt over medium stove heat or microwave until fully liquid.
Combine Ice Cream and Gelatin: Stir melted ice cream into the gelatin mixture thoroughly, then allow it to cool down to room temperature.
Layer and Chill: Pour the ice cream gelatin over the root beer gelatin cubes in the 8×8 baking dish. Refrigerate overnight until fully set.
Serve: Cut into cubes and serve chilled for a delightful no-melt root beer float treat.

Notes

Use high-quality root beer brands like A&W or Barq’s for the best flavor.
Ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved to avoid grainy texture.
Allow the melted ice cream mixture to cool to room temperature before pouring over the gelatin cubes to maintain the layers.
Refrigerate overnight for best set and flavor melding.
This dessert can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

Keywords: root beer float jello, gelatin dessert, root beer dessert, vanilla ice cream gelatin, layered jello, no-melt float, summer dessert