Step back into sweet, fizzy nostalgia with this Root Beer Float Pie—a frozen treat that captures the magic of sipping a root beer float on a hot summer day. Creamy vanilla pudding gets a bubbly twist from real root beer and a splash of root beer extract, then it’s folded into fluffy Cool Whip and nestled into a buttery graham cracker crust. This chilled dessert is so easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser—perfect for barbecues, birthdays, or just because!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ridiculously Easy: If you can whisk, you can make this pie. No oven, no stovetop, no stress. Just mix, freeze, and serve.
Perfect for Hot Days: It’s served frozen, so it’s refreshing and cool—just what you want on a sunny afternoon.
Fun & Nostalgic: The taste is like childhood in a pie slice. Root beer float vibes, but make it dessert!
Great for Parties: Make it ahead of time, store it in the freezer, and pull it out when the guests arrive.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This pie keeps it simple, but every ingredient brings the flavor to life:

Root Beer: Adds that classic soda-shop taste. Go with a good-quality root beer for the best flavor.
Milk: Helps activate the pudding mix. Use whole or 2% for the creamiest texture.
Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix: The base of the filling—gives it body and smooth vanilla richness.
Root Beer Extract: Enhances the soda flavor and makes the pie unmistakably “float-y.” Don’t skip it!
Cool Whip: Folds into the pudding for an airy, mousse-like consistency. Make sure it’s fully thawed.
Graham Cracker Crust: Store-bought or homemade—it provides that perfect, buttery crunch.

Garnishes

Whipped Cream and Cherries: Classic float toppings that make each slice look like a sundae!
Crushed Root Beer Barrel Candy: Adds a little crunch and an extra punch of root beer flavor. Totally optional, but highly recommended.

Variations

Want to put your own twist on this frozen pie? Try these fun spins:

Chocolate Twist: Use chocolate pudding instead of vanilla for a chocolate root beer float vibe.
Cream Soda Version: Swap the root beer and extract with cream soda and a splash of vanilla extract.
Mini Pies: Make individual servings in cupcake liners or mini tart pans—perfect for parties.
Homemade Whipped Cream: If you’re not a Cool Whip fan, fold in freshly whipped cream sweetened with a little powdered sugar.

How to Make Root Beer Float Pie

Step 1: Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, whisk together root beer, milk, root beer extract, and vanilla pudding mix for about 2 minutes, until it thickens slightly. It should look like a soft pudding.

Step 2: Fold in the Cool Whip

Gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip until everything is smooth and combined. Don’t overmix—you want it light and fluffy.

Step 3: Fill the Crust

Scoop the pudding mixture into your prepared graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to smooth out the top.

Step 4: Freeze

Place the pie in the freezer and let it chill for at least 8 hours, preferably overnight, until fully set and firm.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, let the pie sit at room temperature for about 5–10 minutes to soften slightly for easier slicing. Top each slice with whipped cream and a cherry. Sprinkle crushed root beer barrel candy around the edge for an extra treat.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Cold Ingredients: Cold milk and root beer help the pudding set faster and more evenly.
Don’t Overfold: When adding the Cool Whip, fold gently to keep that light texture.
Freeze Overnight: For best results, give it a full freeze. It slices beautifully when frozen solid.
Pre-slice Before Freezing: For easy serving, slice the pie before freezing, then pop it back in. The slices separate more easily later.

How to Serve

Serve slices straight from the freezer, topped with a generous swirl of whipped cream and a bright red cherry. Pair it with an ice-cold glass of—you guessed it—root beer for the ultimate float experience. It’s also fantastic alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for double the creamy goodness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any remaining slices in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. Keep it in the freezer, and it’ll stay good for up to 1 week.

Freezing

Yes, this pie is designed to be frozen! It stores beautifully and can even be made up to 2 weeks in advance.

Reheating

No reheating here! Just let it sit for a few minutes before serving if it’s too firm to slice.

FAQs

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Absolutely. Just whip heavy cream with a little powdered sugar until stiff peaks form, and fold it in gently. It’ll give you a slightly fresher taste and softer texture.

What’s the best root beer to use?
Go for a strong-flavored root beer, like A&W or Barq’s. Avoid diet versions—they can alter the taste and texture.

Can I make this pie without root beer extract?
Technically, yes—but the flavor won’t be as intense or float-like. The extract really helps drive home that signature taste.

Does this pie need to be kept frozen?
Yes! It’s a frozen dessert, and it needs to stay that way to maintain its texture. Serve straight from the freezer for best results.

Final Thoughts

This Root Beer Float Pie is pure dessert joy—easy to whip up, fun to serve, and bursting with nostalgic flavor. Whether you’re making it for a summer BBQ, a birthday party, or just because, it’s guaranteed to bring smiles. So grab a spoon, a slice, and enjoy a float in pie form!