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This Shirley Temple Float brings together all the charm of the classic mocktail with the creamy delight of vanilla ice cream. It’s a perfect summertime treat that feels part drink, part dessert, and fully satisfying for anyone who loves a sweet refreshment. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip this up quickly and impress family or friends with a fun and nostalgic float.
I first made these floats during a backyard BBQ and everyone kept asking for seconds. They are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that never grows old.
Ingredients
- Grenadine syrup: gives that signature pomegranate sweetness and vibrant red color, look for a pure pomegranate version if possible
- Ginger ale: adds bubbly refreshment with a mild spice, choose a high-quality brand for the best fizz and flavor
- Vanilla ice cream: the creamy base that softens the soda’s bite and adds richness, homemade or artisanal vanilla makes it extra special
- Maraschino cherries: optional but classic garnish for a pop of color and a sweet finishing touch, look for brands without artificial dyes
- Orange soda variation: use store-bought orange soda that is bright and fizzy, and fresh orange slices to enhance the citrus notes
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Scoop the grenadine:
- Divide one ounce of grenadine evenly between two tall sundae glasses to start building the base sweetness and color
- Add the soda:
- Pour six ounces of ginger ale slowly into each glass over the grenadine to preserve the bubbles and create that foamy texture
- Top with ice cream:
- Gently add two scoops of vanilla ice cream atop the soda in each glass allowing it to float and begin to melt slightly for creamy interaction
- Garnish the floats:
- Place a maraschino cherry on top of each ice cream scoop for a classic look or add an orange slice for the orange soda version to brighten the presentation
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My favorite part of this recipe is the grenadine which ties everything together with its ruby red hue and sweet-tart punch. I remember making these with my siblings on hot summer afternoons and feeling instantly refreshed and spoiled all at once.
Storage tips
This float is best enjoyed immediately while the ice cream is still creamy and the soda bubbly. If you try to store leftovers, the ice cream will melt and change the texture. However, you can prepare the grenadine and soda mixture ahead and chill it in the fridge for a couple of hours.
Ingredient substitutions
If you don’t have ginger ale, lemon-lime soda or even ginger beer makes a fantastic alternative. For ice cream, cherry or chocolate flavors create interesting combinations with grenadine’s pomegranate notes. You could also use dairy-free ice cream for a vegan twist.
Serving suggestions
Serve these floats at summer parties with striped paper straws and colorful napkins for a playful vibe. Pair with light finger foods like mini sandwiches or fruit skewers to keep things easy and fun.
Cultural context
The Shirley Temple was invented in the 1930s and named after the famous child actress. Originally served as a kid-friendly alternative to cocktails, it has become an enduring classic at family gatherings and diners. Turning it into a float adds a creamy twist that makes it feel like a grown-up dessert and a kid’s dream all in one.
Pro Tips
- Chill your glasses beforehand to keep the float cold longer without melting too quickly
- Pour soda gently over the back of a spoon to preserve carbonation and prevent overflow
- Use a sturdy spoon or straw to mix the bottom layers and enjoy the full burst of grenadine flavor throughout the float
Commonly Asked Questions
- → Can I use lemon-lime soda instead of ginger ale?
Yes, lemon-lime soda offers a lighter, citrusy fizz that pairs well with grenadine and vanilla ice cream, creating a slightly sweeter float.
- → What ice cream flavors work best in this float?
Vanilla is classic and creamy, but cherry or chocolate ice cream also complement the fruity grenadine and soda for fun variations.
- → How do I garnish a Shirley Temple float?
Top the float with maraschino cherries for a traditional touch, or add orange slices for a fresh citrus note.
- → Can I substitute ginger beer for ginger ale?
Absolutely. Ginger beer adds a spicier kick and deeper ginger flavor, enhancing the float’s complexity.
- → Is it possible to make this float in advance?
Because of the ice cream, it's best made fresh to maintain the ideal texture and effervescence.