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Root Beer Float Pie

A creamy, nostalgic no-bake pie that combines the fizzy flavor of root beer with the smoothness of vanilla pudding, perfect for summer gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Filling
  • 1 cup root beer (preferably A&W or Barq’s) Use chilled for best fizz.
  • 1/2 cup cold milk (whole or 2%) Whole milk = richer texture.
  • 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix Instant sets quickly.
  • 1 tsp root beer extract Concentrated — a little goes far.
  • 1 container (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed Fold gently for fluff.
For the Crust and Garnish
  • 1 prepared graham cracker crust Pressed crust holds filling well.
  • Whipped cream Fresh is best.
  • Maraschino cherries Adds color and nostalgia.
  • Crushed root beer barrel candy (optional) Provides crunch and nostalgia.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Chill a large bowl to keep the filling cool while you work.
  2. Pour 1 cup of root beer and 1/2 cup of cold milk into the bowl. Slowly add the vanilla pudding mix.
  3. Add 1 tsp of root beer extract and whisk briskly for about 2 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly and looks glossy.
  4. Gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip with a rubber spatula until fully incorporated and fluffy, but stop before it deflates.
  5. Scoop the mixture into the prepared graham cracker crust and smooth the top with the spatula; the surface should look even and pillowy.
  6. Freeze the pie for at least 8 hours or overnight until fully set and firm to the touch.
  7. Before serving, let the pie sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes so slices cut cleanly. Garnish each slice with whipped cream, a cherry, and optional crushed root beer candy.
  8. Serve chilled and enjoy.

Notes

Time-saver: Use pre-made crusts and instant pudding for a quicker prep. Don’t over-fold the Cool Whip; if mixture deflates, gently stir in a bit more Cool Whip to recover fluff. Variation: Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the pudding for a root-beer-chocolate twist.