The Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float is a joyful, nostalgic treat that instantly transports you to carefree summer days and classic soda shops. With its fizzy, cherry-kissed soda blending into creamy vanilla ice cream, this dessert-drink is as fun to make as it is to sip and spoon. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just need a sweet pick-me-up, the Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float is guaranteed to bring smiles to everyone at your table.

Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Liquid Ingredients
- 1 cup lemon-lime soda (such as Sprite or 7UP)
- 1/4 cup grenadine syrup
Dairy
- 2 scoops vanilla ice cream
Garnish
- Maraschino cherries for garnish
- Crushed ice (optional)

How to Make Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float

Step 1: Add the Grenadine Syrup

Start by pouring the grenadine syrup into the bottom of your tallest, prettiest glass. This syrup sets the stage for that classic cherry flavor and blush-pink hue. Watching the syrup swirl is half the fun!

Step 2: Pour in Lemon-Lime Soda

Carefully pour the lemon-lime soda over the grenadine. Pour slowly so it doesn’t foam up too quickly! You’ll see the colors begin to dance and mingle—this is the beginning of your Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float magic.

Step 3: Add Vanilla Ice Cream

Gently lower two generous scoops of vanilla ice cream right on top of your fizzy soda mixture. The float will bubble and foam, creating that irresistible creamy layer everyone adores.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Top your float with a maraschino cherry (or two!), pop in a straw, and maybe add a little crushed ice if you like it extra frosty. Serve immediately with a long spoon so everyone can dig in and sip up all that creamy, fizzy goodness.

How to Serve Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float

Garnishes

A Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float just isn’t complete without a bright red maraschino cherry perched on top, but why stop there? Try a twist of lemon zest, a paper umbrella, or even a drizzle of extra grenadine for a show-stopping finish that makes every glass feel like a celebration.

Side Dishes

Pair your float with classic diner treats like crispy fries, mini sliders, or a batch of popcorn for a retro-inspired snack spread. For something lighter, fresh fruit or buttery shortbread cookies are perfect alongside that sweet, bubbly float.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Shirley Temple Ice Cream Floats in vintage soda glasses or mason jars for a nostalgic vibe, or use colorful paper straws and fun stirrers for a playful touch. Hosting a party? Set up a DIY float bar with different sodas, ice cream flavors, and toppings so everyone can build their own dreamy concoction!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Floats are best enjoyed right after making, but if you find yourself with leftovers, you can pop the glass in the freezer for a short time (up to 30 minutes). Just know the soda will lose its fizz and the ice cream will melt, so it won’t have that signature bubbly texture.

Freezing

If you want to prep ahead, you can scoop ice cream into glasses and freeze them until you’re ready to assemble. When it’s float time, add the grenadine and soda, and your Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float will be ready in seconds. Avoid freezing the completed float, as the soda will go flat and the texture changes.

Reheating

There’s no reheating needed for this sweet treat! If your float has been chilling in the freezer, let it sit at room temperature for just a few minutes so the ice cream softens slightly before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Drink, Dessert

Absolutely! While lemon-lime soda is traditional for a Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float, you can experiment with cherry soda, ginger ale, or even club soda for a less sweet version. Each one brings its own twist to the classic flavor.

Is there a dairy-free or vegan alternative?

Yes! Swap the vanilla ice cream for a dairy-free or vegan version made from coconut, almond, or oat milk. The rest of the ingredients are already plant-based, so everyone can enjoy this fizzy treat.

How can I make it extra fizzy?

For maximum fizz, try pouring the soda directly over the ice cream instead of the other way around. You’ll get a dramatic foam and a fun, bubbly texture that’s irresistible!

Can I make Shirley Temple Ice Cream Floats for a crowd?

Definitely! Just line up your glasses, add the grenadine and ice cream ahead of time, then pour in the soda right before serving. It’s a fun and interactive dessert that’s always a hit at parties.

What can I do with leftover grenadine syrup?

Leftover grenadine is perfect for sweetening lemonade, adding to mocktails, or drizzling over pancakes or yogurt. You’ll find plenty of ways to use up every last drop!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a whimsical dessert that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat, you have to try the Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float. It’s the perfect blend of nostalgia and fun, and it’s sure to become a favorite with both kids and adults alike. Give it a whirl—you’ll be hooked after the very first fizzy, creamy sip!

Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float Recipe

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4.6 from 20 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 5 minutes
Yield: 1 serving 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A refreshing and classic Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float combining the fizzy zest of lemon-lime soda, sweet grenadine syrup, and creamy vanilla ice cream, topped with maraschino cherries for a delightful kid-friendly drink or dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

Liquid Ingredients

1 cup lemon-lime soda (such as Sprite or 7UP)
1/4 cup grenadine syrup

Dairy

2 scoops vanilla ice cream

Garnish

Maraschino cherries for garnish
Crushed ice (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Add Grenadine Syrup: Pour 1/4 cup of grenadine syrup into a tall glass to form a sweet, colorful base for the float.
Pour Lemon-Lime Soda: Carefully add 1 cup of lemon-lime soda over the grenadine syrup to create a fizzy soda mixture without disturbing the base too much.
Add Ice Cream: Gently place 2 scoops of vanilla ice cream on top of the soda mixture; this will cause a fizzing and floating effect.
Garnish and Serve: Add maraschino cherries on top for a classic finish, insert a straw and a spoon, and serve immediately while it’s fizzy and cold.

Notes

For an extra fizzy experience, pour the soda over the ice cream instead of under.
Adding a splash of cherry juice enhances the cherry flavor.
Using cherry soda instead of lemon-lime can provide a fun flavor variation.
Crushed ice can be added to keep the float extra cold, especially on hot days.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Drink, Dessert
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American