This Easy Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float is a bubbly and sweet treat everyone will love! With fruity soda, creamy ice cream, and a cherry on top, it’s a fun drink for any occasion!
Every time I make this, I feel like a kid again. The fizz and sweetness just make me smile! Serve it at parties, or just enjoy it while relaxing on a sunny day. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ginger Ale or Lemon-Lime Soda: Both options add a refreshing fizz. If you’re looking for a caffeine-free option, ginger ale is the way to go. You can also try using sparkling water with a splash of juice for a lighter drink.
Grenadine Syrup: This syrup adds sweetness and that classic red color. If you don’t have grenadine, try cherry juice or pomegranate juice for a similar flavor and color.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Classic choice for creaminess! To make it dairy-free, opt for coconut, almond, or oat-based ice cream instead. Each adds a nice twist!
Maraschino Cherry: This garnish brings a pop of color and a sweet bite. Feel free to swap it for fresh cherries or a small strawberry for a fresh twist.
How Do I Layer My Ice Cream Float Perfectly?
Layering your float can make it look beautiful and taste amazing. Here’s how you can do it right:
- Start with chilled soda in a tall glass. Pour slowly to avoid too much fizz.
- Add grenadine gently. This helps it settle at the bottom, creating a lovely gradient.
- Using a spoon, gently place the ice cream on top to minimize mixing. This keeps yummy layers visible!
- Garnish with a cherry and lime slice for that classic presentation.
Remember, serve immediately to enjoy the frothy fizz and creamy goodness together!
Easy Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup ginger ale or lemon-lime soda, chilled
- 2 tablespoons grenadine syrup
- 2 scoops vanilla ice cream
- 1 maraschino cherry (for garnish)
- 1 lime slice (for garnish)
- Paper straws (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious treat takes about 5 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy to whip up, making it perfect for a fun snack or dessert anytime you want a bubbly delight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Pour the Soda:
Start by pouring 1 cup of chilled ginger ale or lemon-lime soda into a tall glass. Pour slowly to give it time to fizz up without overflowing.
2. Add the Grenadine:
Next, gently add 2 tablespoons of grenadine syrup into the glass. Let it mix naturally with the soda; you’ll see a splash of beautiful red at the bottom!
3. Add the Ice Cream:
Carefully place 2 scoops of vanilla ice cream on top of the soda mixture. You can use a spoon to help it along if needed, but try to keep it on top for a gorgeous layered look.
4. Garnish Your Float:
Add a maraschino cherry on top and place a slice of lime on the rim of the glass for that classic touch. It makes your float look extra special!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
If you’d like, pop in some paper straws for fun! Serve this fizzy, creamy delight immediately and enjoy every bubbly sip!
Enjoy your refreshing, bubbly Shirley Temple ice cream float!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Diet Soda for This Float?
Absolutely! Diet ginger ale or lemon-lime soda will work just fine. You can enjoy a lower-calorie version of your Shirley Temple ice cream float without sacrificing taste!
Can I Make This Float Ahead of Time?
It’s best to serve this float fresh to enjoy the fizz. However, you can prepare the soda and grenadine mixture ahead of time and add the ice cream just before serving to keep it frothy!
What If I Don’t Have Grenadine?
No worries! You can substitute grenadine with cherry juice, cranberry juice, or pomegranate juice for a similar sweet, fruity flavor. The color may vary slightly, but the taste will still be delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
This float is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers (though unlikely!), store the mixed soda and grenadine in the fridge. Just add the ice cream when you’re ready to indulge, as it won’t keep well frozen together!
