Irresistible Ice Cream Cocktails to Scoop and Sip

Ice cream cocktails are the delightful intersection of two beloved treats, merging the creamy, comforting sweetness of ice cream with the exciting flavors and refreshing qualities of cocktails. As the temperatures rise, these indulgent concoctions provide the perfect way to cool down while enjoying a grown-up twist on a childhood favorite. Imagine the rich taste of chocolate or vanilla ice cream swirled with luscious liqueurs, fruity mixers, or even a splash of espresso, creating a symphony of flavors and textures in a single glass.

Cocktail recipes with the inclusion of ice cream can be found as far back as 1892, such as the Reverie cocktail, which consists of Cognac, Maraschino liqueur, orange curaçao, gomme syrup, and vanilla ice cream. By the 1920s and 1930s, ice cream cocktail recipes became more straightforward, such as the famous White Cargo cocktail, made with equal parts gin and vanilla ice cream and shaken without ice. So, this delicious method of cooling down with ice cream and booze is undoubtedly not a new invention, but many spirit brands and modern mixologists are taking the flavors to a whole other level.

Here are recipes perfect for crafting at home, ensuring that each sip is a celebration of summer and sweetness. So grab your scoop and shaker, and let’s dive into the delicious world of ice cream cocktails!

Mash & Mallow Affogato

An Affogato is a deliciously decadent treat that beautifully combines the rich, bold flavor of espresso with the creamy indulgence of vanilla ice cream. Usually served hot, freshly brewed espresso is poured over a scoop of ice cream, creating an enticing contrast of temperatures that melts the ice cream slightly, resulting in a harmonious blend of warmth and coolness. Add some S'mores flavored whiskey to this combo with either chilled or hot espresso, and your summer just got that much better. Try this recipe at home for an ice cream cocktail like no other.

1.5 oz Mash & Mallow

1.5 oz espresso, freshly brewed and chilled

2 graham crackers, finely crushed

2 scoops of cinnamon roll or cinnamon ice cream

Crush two graham crackers with a shot glass. Run a small amount of Mash & Mallow on the rim of a short glass, then place upside down on the graham cracker and turn the glass to coat the entire rim. Set the glass aside. Place two large scoops of cinnamon roll or cinnamon ice cream into the prepared glass. Pour Mash & Mallow and chilled espresso over the ice cream.

Skrewball Mudslide

The Mudslide cocktail is a bold indulgence that combines rich flavors and a smooth, creamy texture, making it a treat for both the senses and the palate. Add some Skrewball Peanut Butter Whiskey, and you've got a heavenly, frosty concoction. The combination of peanut butter, chocolate, and coffee notes invites you to savor every sip. At the same time, the fun element lies in its versatility—perfect for a casual gathering, a festive celebration, or simply as a luxurious way to unwind. Whether enjoyed by the poolside or cooling down on a warm evening, the Mudslide cocktail truly makes any occasion a little more special and a lot more delicious.

2 oz Skrewball Peanut Butter Whiskey

.5 oz coffee liqueur

5 oz Irish Cream liqueur

2 scoops vanilla ice cream

1 cup of ice

Pour all ingredients into a blender and blend until ice is broken down and all ingredients are blended together. Drizzle chocolate syrup into a tall glass and pour blended mixture into the glass. Top with whipped cream and chocolate sprinkles or shaved chocolate.

Brother’s Julius

The Orange Julius cocktail is a refreshing blend of vibrant citrus flavors that instantly transports you to a sunny paradise. This delightful drink combines freshly squeezed orange juice with a hint of vanilla and cream, creating a smooth, frothy texture that tantalizes the taste buds. Often enhanced with a splash of vodka or rum, it transforms the classic Orange Julius into an adult beverage, perfect for summer parties or relaxing evenings. Add your favorite bourbon, and the irresistible combination of sweet and tangy notes makes each sip feel like a refreshing escape, whether you're lounging by the pool or enjoying an outdoor gathering with friends. With its bright color and invigorating flavor, the Orange Julius cocktail will brighten any occasion.

1.5 oz Brother’s Bond Straight Bourbon Whiskey

2 scoops of vanilla ice cream

Chilled orange soda

Orange slices for garnish

Add one scoop of ice cream into a tall glass. Add bourbon and top with chilled orange soda and stir gently. Top with remaining scoop of ice cream and an orange slice. Optionally add whipped cream for decadence.

Café Helado

This twist on a Café Helado is irresistible! A go-to refreshment for warm days, giving both a caffeine kick and a satisfyingly sweet experience, add rum and banana liqueur, and I dare you to have anything other than a great time. Coffee, banana, rum, and ice cream topped with a swirl of whipped cream and a dash of chocolate or cinnamon —each sip is pure bliss. Café Helado transforms an ordinary moment into an extraordinary escape. This chilled delight is guaranteed to elevate your mood and cool you off in the most delicious way. Don’t miss out on this perfect fusion of flavor and refreshment—treat yourself to this Café Helado twist today.

1.5 oz Santa Teresa 1796 Rum

1 oz Cantera Negra Café

.5 oz banana liqueur

1 big scoop of vanilla ice cream

Dark chocolate to garnish

Shake all ingredients together with ice until ice cream is melted. Strain into a coupe glass. Top with grated dark chocolate.

Brother’s Root Beer Float

Back to bourbon. Boozy root beer floats; what's not to love? Combining the rich, nostalgic flavors of root beer and creamy vanilla ice cream with an exciting kick of booze. There's nothing like enjoying a frosty root beer treat on a warm summer evening. Elevate this nostalgic experience with a splash of your favorite liquor—such as bourbon, which adds depth and warmth, seamlessly blending with the sweetness of the soda. As the ice cream melts, it creates a luscious swirl that transforms each sip into a devilish concoction that you just can't beat.

1.5 oz Brother’s Bond Straight Bourbon Whiskey

2 scoops of chocolate ice cream

Chilled root beer

Whipped cream

Chocolate drizzle

Luxardo cherries

Add one scoop of chocolate ice cream into a tall mug, add bourbon, stir gently then top with chilled root beer. Top with an additional scoop of ice cream, whipped cream, add some chocolate drizzle and top it all off with two Luxardo cherries.

Sorbet All Day

If you’re craving something on the lighter side, you can’t go wrong with Limoncello, sorbet, and sparkling wine. Turn a patio party into a fancy soiree with this cocktail that doubles as an aperitif or a dessert cocktail. The trick with this concoction is being playful with your choice of sorbet and sparkling wine. Try watermelon sorbet with a sparkling rose. Or how about pineapple sorbet with dry champagne? Add some basil sprigs and take the Limoncello to the next level. Have you had Limoncello and hibiscus together? It’s a match made in summer heaven. Try this intoxicating sorbet cocktail made with Sorel hibiscus liqueur, and let the summer vibes take you away!

1 oz Sorel Liqueur

1 oz Limoncello

2 oz chilled dry sparkling wine

1 scoop of strawberry sorbet

1 sprig of mint for garnish

Add Sorel and Limoncello to a mixing glass filled with cubed ice and stir for 10-15 seconds. Add chilled sparkling wine to a chilled coupe or champagne glass. Strain Sorel and Limoncello into the glass and top with sorbet. Garnish with mint.