Chocolate Espresso Hazelnut Float

Let me start by being very clear: I am not a soda drinker.

It is a very rare thing for me to order anything but water {unless we're talking cocktails} when we're out, and we don't have soda at home. If I'm going to consume caloric bubbles, I prefer they come in a crystal flute or a frosty pint glass, thankyouverymuch.

So, when Onli Beverages contacted me and asked if I'd want to sample some of their drinks, I wasn't quite sure what to think. Luckily, I had come into contact with Onli at several events I've attended and remembered that I was intrigued by the flavors they offer.

Huckleberry Pomegranate Aronia? Green Tea Lemongrass Mango? These obviously aren't your run-of-the-mill vending machine offerings. Made with fruit extracts, ginseng and a subtle sweetness, Onli is its own breed of bubbly.

I had a whole sample pack of flavors to choose from and it just so happened that I was going to be in a friend's wedding the following weekend, so I decided to pack up the bottles and shared them with the girls as we got ready for the big day. Not only did they look adorable being sipped on by gorgeous gals, but the buzz around the room was audible as each girl discovered the fun flavors. They were a hit!

With Valentine's Day just around the corner, I thought I'd play around with one of Onli's fun flavors -- Espresso Swiss Hazelnut -- to create a lovey-dovey cocktail that could double as a dessert.

Who doesn't love an ice cream float? I remember my aunt introducing me to the sweet, creamy treats when I was a kid and still I crave them from time to time. This version, which I'm dubbing the "Onli You" Cocktail Float is everything I loved about ice cream floats with a grown up twist.

Creamy chocolate ice cream melts into bubbly Espresso Swiss Hazelnut flavored Onli to deliver a fizzy chocolate fix. I was surprised to find that the flavor of the beverage wasn't overwhelming on its own and that it was definitely something I could see myself sipping on a hot day {with one of their signature polka dot straws, of course.} But paired with chocolate ice cream -- and maybe a dash of hazelnut liqueur -- it's an experience that is truly an over-the-top treat. {P.S. It's just as good without the booze.}

The two were clearly meant for one another.

So, if you don't plan on cooking or baking for your Valentine but you still want to surprise them with something sweet, I think I've got your solution. Pick up a pint of your favorite chocolate ice cream {or make your own if you're really feeling adventurous}, and a few bottles of Onli and make your evening sparkle.

Disclosure: Onli Beverages provided the sparkling drinks seen here, but I was not compensated for this post. As always, all opinions here are my own! 

"Onli You" Cocktail Floats
{Chocolate Espresso Hazelnut Ice Cream Floats}

4 mini scoops chocolate ice cream {I made my own but you can pick up your favorite}, divided
2 ounces hazelnut liqueur, such as Baileys with a hint of hazelnut or Frangelico, divided
1 bottle Onli Espresso Swiss Hazelnut

1. In two champagne flutes or regular glasses, place two small scoops of chocolate ice cream. {I used a cookie scoop, but you can have a bigger serving if you'd like. It's a "holiday", go for it.}

2. Pour 1 ounce of hazelnut liqueur in each glass {if desired}, then top with Onli Espresso Swiss Hazelnut. Just be careful, it gets very fizzy and might foam over.

Serve with straws or a long spoon.