Protein Root Beer Float

Nothing says "cool" like an ice cream float on a lazy hot summer afternoon.  But you and I know better than to pour a bubbly soda over several dollops of sweet creamy vanilla ice cream..   (sigh...)

You know I never leave you with a picture like that in your mind without giving you a bariatric friendly, delicious, and hopefully GOOD for you, substitution!

So..  Break out your blender - we're making a root beer float!

The good folks at Dr. Pepper/7up make a VERY nice collection of Sugar Free flavored drink packets (think Crystal Light) for their entire "Crush" productline, Grape, Orange and Pineapple.  They also offer a VERY refreshing Squirt - and - our hero for today, A&W Root Beer.  They are available online and in MANY Markets.  I first discovered them in WalGreens, then the Dollar Tree and finally I ordered  cases from Amazon!  Watch the pricing - some sellers on Amazon want to PRONG you

All of them are quite tasty in a bottle of water (I prefer a 20 oz instead of the recommended 16.9 oz) for those times when you are just "watered out" and can't face another bottle or glass.

Ingredients:

1 scoop vanilla protein powder
1 packet A&W Root Beer drink mix
2 cups ice cubes
1/3 cup non-fat powdered milk
1 cup water 
Splash heavy whipping cream (optional)

Instructions:

• Place all the ingredients into the blender or food processor bowl
• Blend at highest speed until ice is completely incorporated
• Pour into tall glass and grab a straw or two (only if straws are allowed!)

Cook's Notes:

• You can substitute the powdered milk and water for 8 oz of your favorite milk or milk substitute.  Almond milk is delicious.
• Substitute Orange Crush mix and you get a "Dreamsicle"
• Feel free to experiment!

---dave---