Get ready to fall head over heels for the Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float—a sweet, fizzy, and delightfully retro treat that’s absolutely perfect for turning any day into a celebration. Creamy vanilla ice cream, a splash of lemon-lime soda, and a generous swirl of grenadine syrup all come together in a tall chilled glass, then topped with a billowy cloud of whipped cream and bright maraschino cherries. This enchanting float is brimming with nostalgia, kid-friendly fun, and an irresistible cherry-vanilla flavor that brings smiles to all ages. If you’re searching for a magical dessert beverage that dances with color and sweetness, the Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float is the ultimate classic with a twist!
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Vanilla Ice Cream:
- 2 scoops vanilla ice cream
Lemon-Lime Soda Mixture:
- 1 cup lemon-lime soda (such as Sprite)
Grenadine Syrup Drizzle:
- 2 tablespoons grenadine syrup
Toppings and Garnish:
- Whipped cream for topping
- Maraschino cherries for garnish
How to Make Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float
Step 1: Scoop the Ice Cream
Start by dropping two generous scoops of vanilla ice cream into a tall, chilled glass. This forms the rich, creamy heart of your Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float and helps hold up that beautiful fizz you’re about to pour in.
Step 2: Pour the Soda
Gently pour the lemon-lime soda over the ice cream, letting it bubble up and create a fizzy, frothy crown. Go slow to control the foam—watching these magical bubbles rise is half the fun!
Step 3: Swirl in the Grenadine
Next, slowly drizzle in the grenadine syrup. It will swirl down through the soda and ice cream, painting vibrant pink ribbons and infusing that signature Shirley Temple cherry sweetness. Don’t be shy; this syrup is what gives your float its personality.
Step 4: Top with Whipped Cream and Cherries
Add a generous dollop of whipped cream on top of your float, then nestle a few maraschino cherries right in the middle. Grab a straw and a long spoon—you’re ready to serve this showy, crowd-pleasing treat immediately.
How to Serve Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float
Garnishes
For the ultimate presentation, go big with the garnishes! Fluffy whipped cream and ruby-red maraschino cherries are non-negotiables for genuine Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float flair, but you can also add colorful paper straws, a sprig of mint, or a playful cocktail umbrella for extra sparkle and fun. The right finishing touches transform each float into a party in a glass.
Side Dishes
Since the Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float is dessert and beverage rolled into one, pair it with light, salty snacks like crispy popcorn, pretzels, or kettle chips to balance out all that sweetness. If you’re hosting a summer gathering, serve alongside mini sliders or veggie skewers for a cute kid-friendly meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn float-making into an activity! Set up a DIY float bar with an assortment of ice creams (think cherry, raspberry, or lemon sorbet), different sodas, and fun garnishes. Serve the Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float in mason jars or vintage soda fountain glasses to get the full retro effect, or use mini shot glasses for an adorable party sampler.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
While Shirley Temple Ice Cream Floats are best enjoyed freshly made, if you find yourself with leftovers, cover the glass and keep it in the freezer. The ice cream will harden and soda will lose its fizz, but you can still enjoy a cold, slushy treat later—just give it a good stir before diving back in.
Freezing
If you want to prepare the ice cream and grenadine components ahead, scoop the ice cream into individual glasses and drizzle on the syrup, then freeze until ready to serve. When the moment comes, pour over the soda, add the toppings, and you’re ready for instant Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float fun without the fuss.
Reheating
Reheating isn’t necessary for this chilly dessert drink, but if your float hardens too much in the freezer, simply let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften before adding whipped cream and cherries. Stir gently to revive some of the creaminess and enjoy.
FAQs
Can I use a different ice cream flavor?
Absolutely! While vanilla ice cream is classic for a Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float, cherry, raspberry, or even lemon sorbet make for fun, fruity variations. Experiment to find your favorite combination!
Is there a way to make it less sweet?
Yes—swap the lemon-lime soda for club soda, or use less grenadine syrup. This keeps the float light and fizzy while giving you more control over the sweetness.
Can I make this float vegan?
You bet! Use a non-dairy vanilla ice cream and a dairy-free whipped cream alternative. Make sure your grenadine and soda are also vegan-friendly, and you have a perfect plant-based Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float.
What’s the best way to serve these for a group?
Try setting up a float station with all the ingredients and let guests build their own Shirley Temple Ice Cream Floats. This makes for an interactive and memorable party treat!
How do I prevent the soda from overflowing?
Add the soda little by little and pause to let the foam settle if needed. Using a tall glass and pouring on the side (not directly onto the ice cream) helps manage those signature fizzy clouds.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s equal parts showstopper and comfort food, the Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float is it! One taste and you’ll see why this sweet, bubbly classic keeps making a comeback. Give it a whirl, snap a photo, and make it your own—you’re in for pure joy in a glass!
Print
Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the nostalgic flavors of a Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float, a delightful combination of creamy vanilla ice cream, fizzy lemon-lime soda, and sweet grenadine syrup. This kid-friendly treat is perfect for a hot summer day or a fun dessert any time of year.
Ingredients
Vanilla Ice Cream:
- 2 scoops vanilla ice cream
Lemon-Lime Soda Mixture:
- 1 cup lemon-lime soda (such as Sprite)
Grenadine Syrup Drizzle:
- 2 tablespoons grenadine syrup
Toppings and Garnish:
- Whipped cream for topping
- Maraschino cherries for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Glass: Place two scoops of vanilla ice cream into a tall glass.
- Mix the Float: Slowly pour the lemon-lime soda over the ice cream, allowing it to fizz and foam.
- Add Grenadine: Drizzle grenadine syrup over the top, letting it swirl through the soda and ice cream.
- Finish and Serve: Top with whipped cream and garnish with maraschino cherries. Serve immediately with a straw and a long spoon.
Notes
- For a less sweet version, use club soda instead of lemon-lime soda.
- You can also experiment with cherry or raspberry sorbet in place of vanilla ice cream for a fruity twist.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Beverage, Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 float
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 48 g
- Sodium: 95 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 56 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
