Last Updated on December 28, 2024 by Kimberly Stroh

Growing up in Atlanta, Georgia means I’m a Coca-Cola fan for life. My Husband introduced me to the Southern tradition of adding peanuts to Coke. I love watching him enjoy his southern roots, so I decided to kick it up a notch. This Peanuts in Coke Float is a delicious fountain drink recipe – both sweet & salty!

Peanuts in your Coca-Cola are something that people question when they aren’t familiar with it. The first time I saw my husband add some peanuts to his Coke, I definitely tilted my head and laughed. The joke is on me because it’s so good! It’s sweet and salty. The peanuts take classic Coke to the next level.

Then, I took it a step further (which totally matches my personality) and turned the whole concept into a float. Classic vanilla ice cream made the drink a float and the rest is history. We make these Peanuts In Coke Floats regularly now and even my kids love them. It’s such a treat!

Do you love classic Coca-Cola too? Check out some of these great Coke recipes that you’ll love too:

• Original Coca-Cola Cake Recipe
• Coca-Cola Fudge With Walnuts
• Coca-Cola Cupcakes

Why Do People Drink Coke With Peanuts?

You might be wondering how this tradition came about, especially if you aren’t from the South. Some might say we just do things right down here: biscuits & gravy, sweet tea, and fried chicken are a few of what we’re famous for. Peanuts and coke are like bread and butter to some people.

It provides a salty layer of flavor over carbonated sweetness. They stay crunchy and it provides a little snack at the end of your drink.

According to urban legends, the tradition started in the 1920s. Workers with dirty hands didn’t want to touch their peanuts, so they popped them into their Coke bottles.

Country singer Barbara Mandrell even sang about the tradition with her hit song, “I Was Country When Country Wasn’t Cool.”

How To Make This Refreshing Coke In Peanuts Float

What you’ll need: a traditional bottle of Coca-Cola, roasted salted peanuts, rich vanilla ice cream, and a classic soda fountain glass. I think you really need the traditional bottle of Coke, chilled of course. There is something better about having it from the bottle versus the can.

When To Make This Drink

You can make this drink anytime, but I love it, especially during the hot summer months. It’s so refreshing and the ice cream is quite the treat. It’s also great for classic movie nights or ice cream parties. Serve it at a vintage event, if you want a budget-friendly option.

Purchase mini glass Coke bottles and serve them with a fancy straw for a party occasion. It’s such a cute idea for themed baby showers, bridal showers, or movie parties.

Won’t Peanuts Get Soggy?

Absolutely not! That’s the beauty of adding the nuts to your Coke. The peanuts won’t get soggy and it adds a touch of salty flavor. You’re drinking and snacking on the nuts, but together for the ultimate flavor.

Recipe Substitutions

Obviously, the classic version of this recipe is with Coke. However, you can make it with any of your favorite dark sodas. I love it with Diet Coke, Cherry Coke Zero, and (sorry for switching brands) Dr. Pepper. Pick any dark soda and make the float your own recipe.

Step-By-Step Directions To Make Peanuts In Coke Float

Fill 1/3 of your glass with Coke. Add a few peanuts to that. Top with two scoops of vanilla ice cream. Fill the remainder of the glass with more Coke. Top with more peanuts to finish!

It’s so easy and so delicious – the perfect summer treat. Serve it on a hot day and enjoy it on the porch – it’s so southern and so delicious!