There’s nothing quite like sipping on a creamy, tangy Fanta Orange Float from Culver’s on a hot day. With its vibrant orange color and smooth vanilla ice cream, this summertime favorite is the ultimate sweet treat for both kids and adults. Luckily, you don’t have to wait for your next fast-food run to enjoy this delightful float—making this Copycat Culver’s Fanta Orange Float at home is incredibly easy and just as delicious!
Whether you’re reminiscing about childhood memories or simply craving a fizzy, creamy dessert, this easy recipe brings all those nostalgic flavors right to your kitchen. Plus, you can tweak it to your taste and enjoy this icy, bubbly treat anytime. Ready to dive into the world of floats? Be sure to check out our drinks and treats categories for more fun ideas!
Table of Contents
How to make Fanta Orange Float
To craft the perfect Fanta Orange Float, all you need is a tall glass, fizzy Fanta Orange soda, and classic vanilla ice cream. The magic happens when the cold soda hits the creamy ice cream, creating sweet, foamy bubbles that make each sip irresistible. For that authentic Culver’s experience, use a good-quality, dense vanilla ice cream and chilled Fanta so you get maximum fizz and flavor.
Nutrition facts
Each serving of this Fanta Orange Float contains approximately 295 calories, 8g fat, and is caffeine-free. It’s the ultimate quick dessert with a refreshing, lower-caffeine twist. Of course, nutrition facts may vary based on your ice cream and portion sizes—see the breakdown below per serving:
- Calories: 295
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Sugar: 48g
- Protein: 4g
- Caffeine: 0mg
Ingredients
- 2 cups Fanta Orange soda (very cold) — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
- 4 large scoops vanilla ice cream — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
- Whipped cream (optional) — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
- Maraschino cherry (optional) — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
Tools you’ll need
- Tall soda glasses (12-16 oz recommended)
- Ice cream scoop
- Long-handled spoon or float spoon
- Straw
- Measuring cup (optional, for portioning soda)
Instructions
- Chill the Glass: Place your serving glasses in the freezer for 10-15 minutes to keep your float extra cold and frothy.
- Scoop the Ice Cream: Add 2 large scoops of vanilla ice cream to each glass, making sure there’s room for the soda to bubble up.
- Pour the Fanta: Slowly pour chilled Fanta Orange soda over the ice cream, filling the glass until it’s about 2 inches from the top. Let the fizz settle before topping off as needed.
- Top & Serve: Add a little more soda if the fizz drops, then finish with a straw, spoon, and (optional) a dollop of whipped cream or a maraschino cherry.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately with friends or family, and dive into your classic treat!
What to serve with
Drinks
- Pair with other fun floats like root beer or grape soda floats. Try additional ideas in our drinks category.
Sides
- Enjoy with a plate of crispy fries, a delicious burger (see our burger recipes), or summer picnic foods like pretzels and chips.
Treats
- Serve alongside cookies, brownies, or mini cupcakes for a complete dessert experience. Explore more ideas in our treats section.
Variations
- Creamsicle twist: Add a splash of orange sherbet or swap half the vanilla ice cream for orange sherbet for a creamsicle vibe.
- Diet version: Use Fanta Zero or any sugar-free orange soda for a lighter treat.
- Different sodas: Get creative with different fruit sodas like grape or strawberry for new flavors.
- Layer in fruit: Add orange slices or maraschino cherries for a tart surprise.
- Alcoholic version: Adults can stir in a splash of orange liqueur for a boozy float (21+ only!).
Ingredient Substitutes
- Original Ingredient: Vanilla Ice Cream
- French vanilla ice cream
- Dairy-free vanilla frozen dessert (almond, coconut, oat, etc.)
- Orange sherbet for a different vibe
- Original Ingredient: Fanta Orange Soda
- Any brand of orange soda (Sunkist, Crush, etc.)
- Homemade orange soda or sparkling orange juice
- Diet orange soda for fewer calories
- Original Ingredient: Whipped Cream (optional)
- Coconut whipped topping
- Cool Whip
- Aerosol whipped cream
- Original Ingredient: Maraschino Cherry (optional)
- Fresh orange slice
- Fresh cherry
- Candied orange peel
- Original Ingredient: Float Spoon/Straw
- Standard long-handled spoon
- Reusable straw
- Bamboo or paper straws for eco-friendly option
Ingredients
2 cups Fanta Orange soda (very cold)
4 large scoops vanilla ice cream
Whipped cream (optional)
Maraschino cherry (optional)
Instructions
Chill the serving glasses in the freezer for 10-15 minutes.
Scoop 2 large scoops of vanilla ice cream into each glass.
Slowly pour 1 cup of chilled Fanta Orange soda over the ice cream in each glass, letting the foam settle.
Top with extra soda as needed, a swirl of whipped cream, and a cherry if desired.
Serve immediately with a straw and long-handled spoon.
