Chocolate Beer Float with Irish Whiskey and Mint Recipe

If you love the idea of combining rich flavors in a fun, unexpected way, you’re going to adore this Chocolate Beer Float with Irish Whiskey and Mint Recipe. It’s such a comforting, grown-up twist on the classic float, bringing together the creamy chill of chocolate ice cream with the bold, roasted notes of Guinness stout and the warming kick of Irish whiskey. I’ve found this treat is perfect for cozy nights in or when you’re entertaining friends who appreciate something a little different and indulgent.
What really makes this Chocolate Beer Float with Irish Whiskey and Mint Recipe stand out is how all the elements play so well together—the bitters adding a subtle depth and the fresh mint providing just the right hint of cool brightness. Whether you’re enjoying it as a decadent after-dinner treat or a special weekend indulgence, it’s worth trying, especially if you’ve never paired beer with ice cream before. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the right ingredients is the secret to hitting that perfect balance of creamy, bitter, and boozy. I always recommend using quality chocolate ice cream and Guinness Stout because their flavors carry the float beautifully. Keep the Irish whiskey nice and smooth, and don’t skip those chocolate bitters for an extra layer of complexity.
- Irish whiskey: Choose a smooth and slightly sweet one, like Jameson, to complement the stout.
- Guinness Stout: Its roasted flavor works perfectly with the chocolate and whiskey – fresh is best.’
- Scrappy’s Chocolate Bitters: Adds depth and enhances the chocolate notes – a little goes a long way.
- Chocolate ice cream: Go for a rich, creamy version – homemade or premium store-bought works great.
- Mint sprig: Fresh mint is key for that cool, fragrant finish that balances the richness.
Variations
The best part about this Chocolate Beer Float with Irish Whiskey and Mint Recipe? It’s so easy to make it your own. I sometimes swap the chocolate ice cream for mint chocolate chip when I want a mintier punch, or use a different stout if I’m feeling adventurous. Feel free to customize to your taste—it’s all about what you enjoy!
- Mint chocolate ice cream variation: I tried this once, and the mint flavor added a refreshing twist that really brightened up the richness.
- Use coffee stout: For a slight coffee kick, switching Guinness with a coffee stout makes it perfect for early evenings.
- Non-alcoholic version: Use a non-alcoholic stout and add a splash of vanilla extract instead of whiskey for a kid-friendly float.
How to Make Chocolate Beer Float with Irish Whiskey and Mint Recipe
Step 1: Chill Your Glass and Scoop Ice Cream
Start by chilling your serving glass in the freezer for about 10 minutes. This keeps the float cooler longer and helps maintain those fun layers. While the glass chills, scoop out 2 to 3 generous balls of chocolate ice cream and set aside — I find using slightly firm ice cream helps it hold up better when the stout is poured over it.
Step 2: Pour the Whiskey and Bitters
Pour 2 ounces of your favorite Irish whiskey into the chilled glass first. Add 2 to 3 dashes of Scrappy’s Chocolate Bitters atop the whiskey and gently swirl them together. This mix forms the rich base that mingles beautifully with the stout and ice cream.
Step 3: Add Ice Cream and Slowly Pour Guinness
Now, carefully add the scoops of chocolate ice cream into the glass. The fun part is how you add the Guinness — pour it slowly down the side of the glass to reduce foam overflow. The stout will mingle with the whiskey and bitters, hitting the ice cream and creating a creamy, frothy float that’s endlessly fun and delicious.
How to Serve Chocolate Beer Float with Irish Whiskey and Mint Recipe

Garnishes
I always top mine with a fresh sprig of mint — it adds a pop of color and a refreshing aroma that cuts through the richness. If you’re feeling fancy, a light dusting of cocoa powder or some chocolate shavings makes it look extra special without complicating things.
Side Dishes
This float pairs wonderfully with something salty to balance the sweetness. I love serving it alongside salted caramel popcorn or even a simple cheese board. For a real treat, a warm brownie or a slice of Irish soda bread works beautifully too.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, I pour the float into clear mugs or jars with cute paper straws decorated in green to highlight the mint and Irish vibe. You can also serve it in small dessert bowls alongside a tiny whiskey pourer for guests to add their own whiskey splash. It’s both interactive and festive!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have any leftover stout and whiskey mix, you can store it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just keep the ice cream separate until ready to serve for best texture.
Freezing
I don’t recommend freezing the float once assembled since the ice cream will turn icy and the beer may lose some fizz. However, your chocolate ice cream can be prepped and kept frozen in advance for convenience.
Reheating
There’s really no reheating needed here—this dessert is about that fresh cold and creamy contrast. If you want to warm the whiskey before mixing (like in colder months), just heat it gently (not boiling) in a small pan, then assemble the float as usual.
FAQs
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Can I use a different type of beer for the Chocolate Beer Float with Irish Whiskey and Mint Recipe?
Absolutely! While Guinness Stout is classic for its roasted, chocolatey notes, you can experiment with other stouts or porters. Just keep in mind the flavor profile—something too hoppy or bitter might overwhelm the float.
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Is there a non-alcoholic version of this float?
Yes! Replace the Irish whiskey with vanilla extract or almond extract, and use a non-alcoholic stout or root beer. The chocolate bitters add complexity, but you can skip them if you prefer.
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What’s the best way to pour the stout to prevent too much foam?
Pour the stout slowly down the side of a tilted glass to minimize foam. If you prefer, gently stir after pouring to combine without losing the float’s creamy texture.
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Can I prepare the ingredients ahead of time?
You can prep the whiskey and bitters mixture in advance and keep it chilled, but for the best experience, assemble the float right before serving to keep the ice cream from melting too fast and the stout fizzy.
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What type of mint works best as garnish?
I prefer fresh spearmint for its sweet, mild flavor that pairs perfectly with chocolate and whiskey. Peppermint works too, but it can be a bit stronger.
Final Thoughts
Honestly, this Chocolate Beer Float with Irish Whiskey and Mint Recipe has become one of my favorite ways to treat myself when I want something both indulgent and a little bit special. It’s simple yet sophisticated, perfect for impressing friends or winding down on your own. Give it a try—you might just find your new go-to dessert and drink combo that’s as fun to make as it is to enjoy.
PrintChocolate Beer Float with Irish Whiskey and Mint Recipe
A rich and indulgent Chocolate Beer Float combining the deep flavors of Guinness Stout and smooth Irish whiskey with creamy chocolate ice cream and a hint of chocolate bitters. This dessert drink is garnished with a fresh mint sprig for an added touch of aroma and freshness.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Irish
Ingredients
Liquids
- 2 oz Irish whiskey
- 3 oz Guinness Stout
- 2–3 dashes Scrappy’s Chocolate Bitters
Dairy
- 2–3 scoops chocolate ice cream
Garnish
- 1 sprig mint
Instructions
- Prepare the glass: Select a tall glass or beer mug and chill it in the freezer for about 10 minutes to keep the float cold longer.
- Add chocolate ice cream: Place 2 to 3 generous scoops of chocolate ice cream into the chilled glass, providing a creamy base for the float.
- Add Irish whiskey: Pour 2 ounces of Irish whiskey over the ice cream, allowing the flavors to blend gradually.
- Add chocolate bitters: Dash 2 to 3 drops of Scrappy’s Chocolate Bitters on top to enhance the chocolate profile and add complexity to the float.
- Pour Guinness Stout: Slowly pour 3 ounces of Guinness Stout over the ice cream and whiskey mixture to create a layered effect and prevent too much foam.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with a fresh sprig of mint on top for a refreshing aroma and visual appeal. Serve immediately with a spoon and straw for a delightful sipping and scooping experience.
Notes
- Use high-quality chocolate ice cream for the best flavor balance with the stout and whiskey.
- Pour the stout slowly to minimize foam overflow.
- Mint garnish adds aroma but is optional; you can replace with chocolate shavings or leave plain.
- Adjust the whiskey amount based on your preference for strength.
- This recipe is best enjoyed immediately to prevent the ice cream from melting too much.
Keywords: Chocolate Beer Float, Guinness Stout Float, Irish Whiskey Dessert Drink, Chocolate Ice Cream Float, Stout Float