Cherry Sparkling Cider Float (Printable)

Cherry sorbet with sparkling cider, sweet-salty pretzel rim, and maraschino garnish for a lively, festive drink.

# Components:

→ For the Pretzel Crunch Rim

01 - 1/2 cup finely crushed salted pretzels
02 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
03 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

→ For the Float

04 - 1 pint cherry sorbet
05 - 4 cups chilled sparkling apple cider
06 - 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, for garnish
07 - 1/4 cup maraschino cherry syrup, optional

→ For the Glass Rim

08 - 1/4 cup honey or light corn syrup

# Directions:

01 - Combine crushed pretzels, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a small bowl until thoroughly mixed. Spread this mixture onto a plate.
02 - Pour honey or corn syrup onto a second plate. Dip the rims of four tall glasses into the honey/corn syrup, then immediately press the rims into the pretzel crunch mixture to create a coating.
03 - Place a generous scoop of cherry sorbet into the bottom of each prepared glass.
04 - Pour 1 cup of chilled sparkling apple cider over the sorbet in each glass. If desired, add a drizzle of maraschino cherry syrup.
05 - Garnish each float with maraschino cherries. Serve immediately with a straw and spoon.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 15 minutes with no cooking required
  • Perfect for both kids and adults with easy alcoholic adaptation
  • Creates a stunning visual presentation with minimal effort
  • Customizable with different sorbet flavors for any occasion
02 -
  • No special equipment needed beyond basic kitchen tools
  • Can be prepared partially in advance by making the pretzel mixture ahead of time
  • Perfect for both summer refreshment and winter holiday celebrations
  • The sweet and salty combination creates a balanced flavor profile
03 -
  • For the crunchiest pretzel rim, make sure your glasses are completely dry before rimming them. Even a small amount of moisture can cause the mixture to soften prematurely.
  • When crushing pretzels, aim for a mixture of fine crumbs and small pieces rather than a uniform powder. This creates more interesting texture in each bite.
  • If serving at an outdoor event during warm weather, consider freezing your glasses for 30 minutes before preparing the floats to help everything stay cold longer.
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