Pin This sweet nostalgic dessert transforms the classic root beer float into a handheld treat that brings back childhood memories with every bite. The combination of creamy vanilla ice cream wrapped in a crispy cinnamon-sugar tortilla and drizzled with concentrated root beer syrup creates an unexpected yet delightful dessert experience that's perfect for casual gatherings or a fun family dessert night.
I created these dessert wraps during a summer backyard party when I wanted something more interesting than traditional ice cream sundaes. The combination of warm, crispy tortilla with cold ice cream became an instant hit, and now my friends request these "rebel floats" at every gathering.
Ingredients
- Root beer: Choose a high quality craft root beer for the most authentic flavor profile. The reduction concentrates the distinctive sassafras notes that make this dessert special.
- Granulated sugar: Helps create the sticky reduction and adds sweetness to balance the intense root beer flavor.
- Flour tortillas: Look for the freshest large tortillas possible. The pliability ensures easy wrapping without tearing.
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps the cinnamon sugar mixture adhere to the tortillas. European style butter works best for its higher fat content.
- Ground cinnamon: Ceylon cinnamon offers a more delicate flavor than cassia cinnamon, making it ideal for this dessert application.
- Vanilla ice cream: Premium ice cream with real vanilla beans provides the creamiest texture and most authentic flavor. The higher fat content melts more slowly.
- Whipped cream: Freshly whipped heavy cream holds up better than canned varieties and provides a luxurious mouthfeel.
- Maraschino cherries: These add a pop of color and the classic root beer float garnish. Look for natural varieties without artificial colors if possible.
Instructions
- Create the Root Beer Reduction:
- Pour root beer and sugar into a small saucepan over medium heat. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat slightly to maintain a steady bubble without boiling over. Stir occasionally as the liquid reduces, becoming darker and more syrupy. This process takes about 10 to 12 minutes until the volume reduces to approximately 1/3 cup. The syrup should coat the back of a spoon and leave a clear path when you run your finger through it. Remove from heat and transfer to a heat proof container to cool completely. The reduction will thicken further as it cools.
- Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Tortillas:
- In a small bowl, thoroughly combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon until evenly mixed. Brush both sides of each flour tortilla generously with melted butter, making sure to reach the edges. Immediately sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over both sides of the buttered tortillas, pressing gently to help it adhere.
- Toast the Tortillas:
- Heat a large skillet over medium high heat until hot but not smoking. Place one prepared tortilla in the skillet and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until golden brown with slightly darkened spots. Flip carefully using tongs and cook the second side until similarly golden and crisp. The sugar will caramelize slightly, creating a delicious crunch. Transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly. Repeat with remaining tortillas.
- Assemble the Dessert Wraps:
- Once tortillas have cooled just enough to handle but are still warm and pliable, place each one on a serving plate. Add a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream to the center of each tortilla. Drizzle the cooled root beer reduction over the ice cream, using about 1 to 2 tablespoons per wrap. Add a dollop of whipped cream and top with a maraschino cherry if desired.
- Wrap and Serve:
- Fold the bottom edge of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and continue rolling from the bottom to create a burrito style wrap. Serve immediately while the contrast between warm crispy tortilla and cold creamy ice cream is at its peak. For extra presentation points, drizzle additional root beer reduction over the top of the wrapped dessert.
Pin The root beer reduction is truly the heart of this recipe. I discovered that reducing regular root beer concentrates its distinctive flavor into an intensely aromatic syrup that perfectly captures the essence of this classic American soda. My family now keeps a jar of this reduction in the refrigerator to drizzle over ice cream even when we're not making the full wraps.
Make Ahead Tips
The root beer reduction can be made up to two weeks in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Gently reheat before using if it becomes too thick.
You can prepare the cinnamon sugar tortillas up to 8 hours ahead of time. Once cooled completely, store them in a single layer separated by parchment paper in an airtight container. To refresh before serving, warm them briefly in a 300°F oven for 2 to 3 minutes.
For a party setting, consider setting up a dessert wrap bar with the prepared tortillas, ice cream, root beer syrup, and various toppings so guests can assemble their own custom creations.
Flavor Variations
Create a chocolate lover's version by substituting chocolate ice cream and adding a drizzle of chocolate syrup alongside the root beer reduction. The combination of chocolate and root beer creates a surprisingly complex flavor profile reminiscent of a chocolate soda.
For an adult version, add 1 tablespoon of root beer schnapps or vanilla vodka to the reduction during the last minute of cooking. The alcohol will cook off but leave behind an enhanced flavor.
Try a fruity twist by adding fresh sliced strawberries or bananas inside the wrap before folding. The fruit adds freshness and texture that balances the sweetness of the other components.
Serving Suggestions
These dessert wraps make a delightful ending to a casual backyard barbecue or summer picnic. Serve them alongside other nostalgic treats like homemade cookies or brownies for a dessert buffet that will appeal to guests of all ages.
For a more elegant presentation, slice the wrapped desserts diagonally and arrange on a platter with additional root beer reduction drizzled over the top and fresh mint leaves as garnish.
Consider serving smaller versions as part of a dessert tasting menu by cutting the tortillas in half before preparing and using proportionally less filling.
Pin Enjoy this fun and delicious twist on a classic root beer float!
Recipe Q&A
- → How do I achieve a thick root beer reduction?
Simmer root beer with sugar until it reduces to a syrupy consistency, then cool before drizzling.
- → Can these wraps be made vegan?
Yes. Use non-dairy ice cream and vegan butter to create a plant-based version of this dessert.
- → What adds crunch to the filling?
Sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers or graham crackers inside the wrap for extra texture and flavor.
- → Is it possible to prepare ahead?
You can make the root beer reduction and toast tortillas in advance, but assemble just before serving.
- → Which tools do I need for preparation?
A small saucepan, skillet, mixing bowls, pastry brush, and an ice cream scoop are recommended for easy assembly.
- → Are there variations for the ice cream?
Try chocolate or cherry ice cream instead of vanilla for a different flavor twist in each wrap.