This Easy Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float is a fun and fizzy treat! With sweet cherry soda, a scoop of ice cream, and a cherry on top, it’s sure to bring smiles all around.
I love making these for gatherings because they are super easy and colorful. Plus, who can resist a drink that comes with ice cream? It’s like dessert and a drink in one! 🍦🍒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lemon-Lime Soda: You can use any brand of lemon-lime soda, but I find Sprite or 7-Up works best for that refreshing taste. If you’re avoiding sugary drinks, feel free to swap with a sugar-free option.
Grenadine Syrup: This gives the drink its beautiful color and sweet taste. If you don’t have grenadine, you can use raspberry syrup or cherry juice as a substitute. Just remember, it might change the flavor slightly!
Vanilla Ice Cream: While vanilla is classic, you can switch it up with other flavors like cherry, strawberry, or even lime. This can add a fun twist to your float!
Garnishes: Maraschino cherries are traditional, but fresh berries or citrus slices work too if you prefer a different look. I love adding an extra splash of color!
How Do You Layer Your Ice Cream Float for the Best Look?
Layering is key for that stunning dessert drink! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with the grenadine syrup at the bottom. It sinks and creates a beautiful color contrast.
- Slowly pour the chilled lemon-lime soda over the back of a spoon to help keep the layers separate.
- Carefully add the ice cream on top, which will float! Try not to mix it too much.
For the perfect serving, look for tall glasses, which showcase those beautiful layers!
Easy Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup lemon-lime soda (chilled)
- 1/2 cup grenadine syrup
- 2 scoops vanilla ice cream
- Maraschino cherries, for garnish
- Lime slices, for garnish
- Optional: paper straws for serving
Time Needed:
This delightful treat takes about 5 minutes to prepare and serve. It’s quick and perfect for a last-minute dessert or a fun addition to parties!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Pour the Grenadine:
Start by pouring the grenadine syrup into a tall glass. This sweet syrup will settle at the bottom and create a beautiful layer for your float.
2. Add the Lemon-Lime Soda:
Next, slowly pour the chilled lemon-lime soda into the glass. To keep the layers pretty, you can pour it gently over the back of a spoon. This helps the soda to mix lightly with the grenadine without losing the layered look.
3. Scoop in the Ice Cream:
Now it’s time for the ice cream! Carefully add two scoops of vanilla ice cream on top of the soda mixture. The ice cream should float beautifully on top, giving it that classic float look.
4. Garnish Your Float:
To make it extra special, garnish your float with a maraschino cherry right on top. You can also add a lime slice on the rim for a pop of color and a hint of citrus.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Don’t forget to insert some cute paper straws to make sipping even more fun! Serve your Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float immediately and enjoy the fizzy, creamy goodness!
Can I Use a Different Soda Instead of Lemon-Lime?
Absolutely! While lemon-lime soda is traditional, you can try ginger ale or even cherry soda for a different flavor twist. Each variation will give you a unique taste!
What Type of Ice Cream Works Best?
While vanilla ice cream is classic, you can experiment with other flavors like cherry, orange, or even lime for a fun twist. Just make sure it complements the grenadine and soda flavors!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
This float is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store the soda and ice cream separately. Keep leftover soda in the fridge and ice cream in the freezer. Don’t mix them until you’re ready to serve again!
Can I Make This Float with Sugar-Free Ingredients?
Definitely! You can use sugar-free lemon-lime soda and sugar-free grenadine syrup to make a lighter version of this treat. Just keep in mind that the flavor and sweetness will vary, but it can still be delicious!
