Martha Stewart's Coca-Cola float is just what you need in the soaring summer heat – this crowd-pleaser also uses a surprising ingredient
There are many versions, but this is unrivalled


There’s nothing quite like a refreshing drink to cool down on a sweltering hot summer’s day – but this season, why not elevate your classic Coca-Cola with a playful twist?
Martha Stewart recently took to Instagram to share her charming take on the nostalgic float. Her version swaps traditional ice cream for a generous spoonful of freshly whipped cream and features Coca-Cola ice cubes to keep the drink perfectly chilled without diluting its flavor.
Finished with an ice-cold bottle of cola, it’s a simple yet sophisticated spin on a timeless summer treat. It's the ideal accompaniment to our favorite summer lunch recipes.
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In a recent Instagram post, she begins by pouring Coca-Cola into ice cube trays to freeze.
'This way, you can have really cold Coca-Cola,' she explains in the video– a clever idea that even Coca-Cola itself praised as 'genius' in the comments.
Once frozen, the cola cubes are placed in a tall glass and topped with more chilled soda. Rather than the usual scoop of ice cream, Martha finishes her float with a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream, creating a lighter, more elegant version of the beloved treat.
While some followers suggested adding vanilla ice cream for a more traditional float, others compared it to the popular 'dirty soda' – a sweet, fizzy blend of soda, cream, and flavored syrups that has taken social media by storm.
Whether you’re embracing the retro appeal or enjoying a modern twist, Martha’s take is a delightful reminder of the simple pleasures of summer. As she so perfectly puts it, it’s 'perfect for summertime, bringing back memories of times gone by.'
Shop the edit
If you wish to recreate Martha Stewart's Coca-Cola float for your summer party, these accessories will ensure you stay on-brand and in style.
Add a touch of classic charm to your table with this officially licensed Coca-Cola glassware, crafted by Libbey Glass in durable, heavy Georgia green embossed glass. Featuring the iconic contour shape that mirrors the beloved Coca-Cola bottle, each glass is designed to fit comfortably in your hand.
Enjoy your favorite drinks sustainably with this 12-piece stainless steel straw set. Featuring both straight and bent straws in two sizes (10.5" for 30oz tumblers and 8.5" for 20oz), they’re perfect for everything from milkshakes to cocktails. The set includes a natural cotton carry pouch and two nylon cleaning brushes for easy maintenance on the go.
Serve up the classic taste of Coca-Cola in style with this convenient beverage dispenser – perfect for parties, celebrations, and casual gatherings. Featuring a leak-proof spigot for easy self-service and a secure screw cap to prevent spills and contamination, it’s an ideal addition to any occasion.
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Jennifer is the Digital Editor at Homes & Gardens. Having worked in the interiors industry for several years in both the US and UK, spanning many publications, she now hones her digital prowess on the 'best interiors website' in the world. Multi-skilled, Jennifer has worked in PR and marketing and occasionally dabbles in the social media, commercial, and the e-commerce space. Over the years, she has written about every area of the home, from compiling houses designed by some of the best interior designers in the world to sourcing celebrity homes, reviewing appliances, and even writing a few news stories or two.
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