3 new twists on favourite ice cream drinks

These ice cream-based recipes put a new twist on some old classics.

The key to a great egg cream is to get a good "head" on the beverage, similar to the foam on a perfectly poured beer. By using heavy cream, you get both a richer drink and better foam. Flavoured seltzer lends a twist on the traditional version and vanilla syrup adds sweet aromas. Look for vanilla syrup in the store beverage aisle.

Preparation time 5 minutes 

Serves 1

• 30 ml (2 tbsp) vanilla syrup, preferably chilled
• 50 ml (1/4 c) heavy cream
• 175 ml (3/4 c) cold raspberry-flavoured seltzerCombine the syrup and cream in a tall glass and stir with a long spoon. Slowly pour in the seltzer while stirring ­rapidly with the spoon to create a foamy head. Serve immediately.

Not a fan of raspberry? Use orange-flavoured seltzer to get a beverage with a creamsicle taste. Or, if you prefer chocolate, just substitute chocolate syrup for the vanilla.

Almond extract gives this classic root beer float a delightful hint of cherry while heavy cream adds richness — and just as important, helps create three layers of colour in the glass.

Preparation time 10 minutes 

Serves 1

• 375 ml (1 1/2 c) cold root beer
• 1 ml (1/4 tsp) almond extract
• 125 ml (1/2 c) vanilla ice cream
• 30 ml (2 tbsp) heavy cream
• 1 maraschino cherryPour the root beer into a tall glass. Gently stir in the almond extract. Slowly and carefully scoop the ice cream into the root beer. Pour the cream over the ice cream and top with the cherry.

This drink takes two popular tropical ­cocktails — piña coladas and margaritas — and combines them into something even better. The sweet richness of coconut is still here, but lime juice and tequila help to lighten the drink, adding a welcome touch of tartness.

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Makes 1

• 90 ml (6 tbsp) pineapple juice
• 50 ml (1/4 c) cream of coconut
• 15 ml (1 tbsp) lime juice
• 45 ml (3 tbsp) tequila
• 30 ml (2 tbsp) triple sec
• 250 g (1 c) crushed iceIn a blender, combine the pineapple juice, cream of coconut, lime juice, tequila, triple sec and ice. Blend until smooth. Pour into either a tall glass or a margarita glass.

This drink is great for a summer party. Just make a large batch leaving out the ice, then blend with the ice when ready to serve.