Ice Cream Sundays: Lightened Up Root Beer Float

We are starting a new tradition in my house – summer time ice cream “Sundays.”Most people don’t know that I worked a local ice cream shop for 10+ years. Not only did it help pay my way through private school and college, it bred me to love all that is cold and creamy — preferably if it’s homemade.

Every week during the summer my family will embark on a new ice cream exploration! Making fun and cool treats that are sensibly portioned and kid-friendly (no artificial sweeteners or diet products) — so everyone in the family can enjoy! First up – a (toned down) classic. A traditional large root beer float will tip the scales at over 700 calories and 30 grams of fat! Mine comes in at less than 200 calories and 10 grams of fat.

Lightened Up Rootbeer Floats

Serves 4

2 cups good quality vanilla ice cream

12 fl oz root beer

1/4 cup whipped cream (optional)

Glasses and colorful straws (mandatory)

 Place 1/2 cup of ice cream in each glass. Divide the rootbeer evenly among the glasses and dollop with whipped cream,  if using. Serve immediately.

Calories: 196

Fat: 10 grams