Black Cow
A classic American root beer float also known as a Brown Cow.
- 1Place ice cream scoops in a tall glass.
- 2Slowly pour root beer over ice cream.
- 3Allow foam to settle then add more root beer.
- 4Serve with a long spoon and straw.
- 5Enjoy immediately.
Share this page
The Black Cow, also known as a root beer float, is an American soda fountain classic dating to the late 19th century. Legend credits Frank J. Wisner of Cripple Creek, Colorado with inventing the drink in 1893 when he noticed that the snowy peaks of Cow Mountain reminded him of vanilla ice cream. The combination of root beer and vanilla ice cream became an instant hit at soda fountains across America, spawning numerous variations that remain popular today.
🛒 Tools for This Recipe
Everything you need to make a great Black Cow at home.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. These links help support Jigger & Joy at no extra cost to you. Learn more
🍸 Drink Responsibly: Alcoholic beverages should only be consumed by adults of legal drinking age. Never drink and drive. If you choose to drink, please do so responsibly. Excessive alcohol consumption can be harmful to your health. If you or someone you know struggles with alcohol, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357.
⚠️ Allergen Notice: Allergen information provided on this site is for general guidance only and may not be complete or accurate. Ingredients and formulations can vary by brand and may change without notice. If you have food allergies or sensitivities, always verify ingredients directly with manufacturers and check all product labels before consumption. Consult a healthcare professional if you have specific dietary concerns. Jigger & Joy is not liable for any adverse reactions resulting from the consumption of recipes on this site.
Disclaimer: Recipes are provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. Nutritional information, ABV estimates, and other data are approximations and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods used.