If you are looking for an irresistibly fun and refreshing treat that always brings smiles, the Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float Recipe is your perfect go-to delight. This classic American beverage combines fizzy lemon-lime soda, smooth vanilla ice cream, and the sweet richness of grenadine, creating a sparkling, creamy float that tastes like a celebration in a glass. Whether it’s a sunny afternoon or a party with friends, this float has a way of brightening the moment and satisfying everyone’s sweet tooth with its playful charm and nostalgic flair.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step toward making a fabulous Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float. Each component plays a key role in balancing sweetness, creaminess, and fizz to create that perfect float experience.
- Lemon-lime soda (1/2 cup): Provides a crisp, citrusy fizz that awakens the palate and adds refreshing bubbles.
- Ginger ale (1/2 cup): Adds gentle spice and sweetness, enhancing the soda blend with a subtle warmth.
- Grenadine (2 tablespoons): This bright red syrup infuses rich cherry flavor and gorgeous color, making the float visually stunning and delightfully sweet.
- Vanilla ice cream (2 scoops): The creamy, cool base that softens the bubbles and adds luscious texture with every spoonful.
- Maraschino cherries: The classic garnish that crowns the float with a burst of bright sweetness and an inviting pop of color.
- Crushed ice (optional): Keeps the float chilled and adds a refreshing crunch, perfect for hot days.
How to Make Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float Recipe
Step 1: Start with the Base Liquid
Begin by placing a few spoonfuls of crushed ice into a tall glass if you’re using it. Pour in the lemon-lime soda, followed by the ginger ale. These fizzy elements are essential for that effervescent sparkle that makes the float so lively and fun.
Step 2: Add the Grenadine
Next, pour in the grenadine syrup. This not only adds the iconic red hue but gives the drink its signature cherry-sweet flavor. Gently stir the mixture to combine the flavors without losing too much of the carbonation.
Step 3: Scoop in the Ice Cream
Carefully add two generous scoops of creamy vanilla ice cream on top of the beverage. The ice cream slowly melts into the soda, creating delightful creamy bubbles that make the float truly special.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Finish your float by placing a maraschino cherry on top, and, if desired, add a splash of extra soda for some extra fizz. Serve immediately with a straw and a long spoon to enjoy all the layers of taste and texture.
How to Serve Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float Recipe
Garnishes
The classic maraschino cherry is a must-have for that nostalgic, joyful feel and a pop of sweetness. You might also rim the glass with sugar for a sparkling touch or add a sprig of fresh mint to brighten the aroma and presentation.
Side Dishes
Pair this float with light snacks or party finger foods like mini sandwiches, crispy popcorn, or fresh fruit skewers. Its sweet and fizzy character makes it a perfect companion for casual gatherings and kid-friendly celebrations.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float in vintage soda fountain glasses or mason jars for a charming, retro vibe. You can also switch vanilla ice cream with cherry or lemon sherbet for a colorful twist, or even layer the float with crushed candy cane pieces during holidays to add a festive crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This float is best enjoyed immediately to retain its refreshing fizz and creamy texture. If you have leftover soda mixture without ice cream, store it in the refrigerator and consume within 24 hours for optimum taste.
Freezing
Since this recipe involves ice cream and soda, freezing the assembled float is not recommended. However, you can freeze leftover soda separately in ice cube trays to use next time or for making a chilled version of your drink.
Reheating
Reheating is not applicable for Shirley Temple Ice Cream Floats as the magic lies in the cold and fizzy combination. To enjoy similar flavors, simply prepare a fresh float whenever you want to indulge.
FAQs
Can I use diet soda to make a lower-calorie Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float Recipe?
Absolutely! Diet lemon-lime soda and diet ginger ale work well to reduce calories while keeping the float bubbly and flavorful; just be aware the taste might be slightly less sweet compared to regular soda.
What can I use instead of grenadine?
If you don’t have grenadine on hand, you can substitute with a homemade pomegranate syrup or a cherry syrup to approximate the sweet, fruity notes and the signature red color.
Is this drink suitable for kids?
Yes, the Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float Recipe is a classic kid-friendly treat because it contains no alcohol and combines familiar flavors kids love like soda and ice cream.
Can adults spike this float?
Definitely! For an adult twist, add a splash of vodka, rum, or even a flavored liqueur to give it a grown-up kick while maintaining the fun vibe of the float.
How can I make the ice cream float extra fizzy?
Adding a splash of soda right before serving, as well as stirring gently when combining the ingredients, helps maintain more carbonation and a delightful fizz in your Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the joy of sipping a Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float Recipe—it’s a timeless treat that feels like a party in every glass. Whether you’re making it for family, friends, or just a special moment of indulgence, this float is easy to prepare and impossible not to love. So go ahead, grab those simple ingredients and make yourself a float that’s as cheerful and sweet as a sunny day.
Print
Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 float
- Category: Beverage
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
The Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float is a delightful and refreshing non-alcoholic beverage that combines the fizzy sweetness of lemon-lime soda and ginger ale with rich vanilla ice cream and a splash of grenadine. Perfect as a kid-friendly party treat or a nostalgic dessert drink, it’s easy to prepare and sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face.
Ingredients
Float Ingredients
- 1/2 cup lemon-lime soda (such as Sprite or 7UP)
- 1/2 cup ginger ale
- 2 tablespoons grenadine
- 2 scoops vanilla ice cream
- Maraschino cherries for garnish
- Crushed ice (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Glass: In a tall glass, add a few spoonfuls of crushed ice if using to keep the float extra cold.
- Mix the Sodas and Grenadine: Pour the lemon-lime soda, ginger ale, and grenadine into the glass. Gently stir the mixture to combine the flavors without diminishing the fizz.
- Add the Ice Cream: Carefully add two scoops of vanilla ice cream on top of the soda mixture, allowing it to float and create a creamy texture.
- Garnish and Serve: Top with a maraschino cherry and an optional splash of extra soda for a fun fizz. Serve immediately with a straw and a long spoon for scooping.
Notes
- For a fun twist, substitute vanilla ice cream with cherry or lemon sherbet for a different flavor profile.
- Rim the glass with sugar to add a festive and decorative touch.
- This is a kid-friendly treat, but adults can add a splash of vodka or rum to spike the drink if desired.
