There is something utterly magical and nostalgic about the Shirley Temple Float Recipe, a delightful twist on the classic Shirley Temple drink that brings an extra scoop of joy with creamy vanilla ice cream and fizzy lemon lime soda. This enchanting float isn’t just a treat; it’s a celebration in a glass, perfectly balancing sweetness, fizz, and a splash of vibrant grenadine to create a drink that’s as fun to make as it is to savor. Whether you’re crafting a refreshing beverage for a sunny afternoon or looking to impress guests with a playful, colorful concoction, this Shirley Temple Float Recipe is a must-try that guarantees smiles with every sip.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Shirley Temple Float Recipe is wonderfully simple, yet each component plays a crucial role in building the perfect balance of flavor and texture. From the creamy vanilla ice cream that lends richness to the sparkling lemon lime soda bringing refreshing bubbles, every element harmonizes beautifully.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Use high-quality ice cream for creamy depth and smooth texture that melts just right in the float.
- Grenadine: This bright red syrup adds signature sweetness and a gorgeous rosy hue that makes the drink visually irresistible.
- Lemon Lime Soda: Refreshing and bubbly, it lifts the float with crisp citrus notes and effervescent charm.
- Maraschino Cherries: A classic garnish that adds a pop of color and a touch of extra sweetness.
- Lime Wedges: Optional but perfect for adding a subtle zing and decorative flair.
- Whipped Topping: Adds a luxurious, creamy crown to the float for an indulgent finish.
- Pink Sanding Sugar: Sprinkled on top for sparkle and an extra bit of fun.
How to Make Shirley Temple Float Recipe
Step 1: Start with the Ice Cream
Begin your Shirley Temple Float Recipe by placing a generous scoop (about 8 ounces or 1 cup) of vanilla ice cream into a tall glass. The creamy base is essential—it sets the silky texture and richness that makes this float so special.
Step 2: Drizzle the Grenadine
Next, pour 1 ounce of grenadine syrup gently over the ice cream. This syrup not only sweetens the drink but creates those captivating ruby red streaks as it slowly mingles with the soda and ice cream.
Step 3: Pour in the Lemon Lime Soda
Slowly add 8 ounces of lemon lime soda to your glass. Pouring gently ensures the soda bubbles stay bubbly and the ice cream starts to melt just enough to blend creamy and fizzy perfectly.
Step 4: Add Your Finishing Touches
Finally, garnish the float with a generous dollop of whipped topping, a maraschino cherry, a lime wedge on the rim, and a sprinkle of pink sanding sugar if you like a little sparkle. These extras bring color and flair that make your Shirley Temple Float Recipe truly shine.
How to Serve Shirley Temple Float Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes turn this drink into a festive experience. A bright red maraschino cherry perched on top adds classic charm, while a fresh lime wedge provides a refreshing citrus contrast. Whipped cream crowns the float with fluffy sweetness that ties every flavor together. Don’t be shy to sprinkle some pink sanding sugar for that fun, shimmering effect that’s sure to delight kids and adults alike.
Side Dishes
Serve your Shirley Temple Float Recipe alongside light, complementary treats like crispy popcorn, fresh fruit slices, or buttery shortbread cookies. These snacks keep the mood playful and help balance the sweetness without overwhelming your taste buds, making your float the star of the show.
Creative Ways to Present
For an extra-special touch, try serving your Shirley Temple Float Recipe in colorful mason jars or vintage soda glasses to evoke a nostalgic feel. Adding fun paper straws or quirky drink umbrellas invites smiles. If you’re hosting a party, set up a build-your-own float station with various toppings and garnishes so everyone can customize their own fizzy creation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with any leftover Shirley Temple Float after a gathering (though it’s rare!), it’s best to separate the ice cream from the soda and store each individually. Keep the ice cream in its original container in the freezer to maintain texture, and refrigerate the soda to stay fresh and bubbly until next use.
Freezing
Since the float is a combination of soda and ice cream, freezing the assembled drink isn’t recommended as it will alter the texture and carbonation. However, you can freeze leftover ice cream and enjoy it later, or freeze maraschino cherries to use in future drinks.
Reheating
This Shirley Temple Float Recipe is best enjoyed chilled and fresh, so reheating isn’t necessary or recommended. The magic comes from those cold, creamy, and fizzy elements working together in perfect harmony.
FAQs
Can I use other flavors of soda for the Shirley Temple Float Recipe?
Absolutely! While traditional lemon lime soda is classic, you can experiment with ginger ale or even sparkling water with a splash of citrus for different flavor profiles. Just remember the soda brings essential bubbles, so keep it fizzy.
Is grenadine syrup homemade or store-bought better?
Store-bought grenadine is convenient and consistently sweet, but making your own with pomegranate juice and sugar provides a fresher, more natural taste. Either works well in this Shirley Temple Float Recipe depending on your preference and time.
Can adults enjoy a Shirley Temple Float Recipe? Should I add alcohol?
Definitely! Though traditionally a kid-friendly drink, adults can enjoy it too. To make it boozy, try adding a splash of rum or vodka for an adult twist while keeping the float’s fun, festive vibe.
What’s the best vanilla ice cream to use?
Opt for a creamy, rich vanilla ice cream with a smooth texture. Premium brands with real vanilla bean flavor elevate the float, but any good-quality vanilla ice cream will do and create that luscious base everyone loves.
How do I prevent the soda from going flat too quickly?
Pour the soda slowly over the ice cream to preserve the bubbles longer. Serve immediately after assembling to enjoy the fizzy, bubbly texture that makes the Shirley Temple Float Recipe so refreshing and satisfying.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a lighthearted, sweet, and utterly charming treat that brings smiles instantly, the Shirley Temple Float Recipe is your new best friend. It’s incredibly simple to make, endlessly customizable, and ideal for any occasion that calls for a bit of sparkle and nostalgia. Go ahead and whip one up today—you’ll love sharing this bubbly, creamy delight with friends and family!
Print
Shirley Temple Float Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 17 servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
The Shirley Temple Float is a fun and refreshing non-alcoholic soda float that combines creamy vanilla ice cream with sweet grenadine and fizzy lemon-lime soda, topped with classic garnishes such as maraschino cherries and whipped topping. Perfect for parties or a nostalgic treat, this easy-to-make float is both visually appealing and delicious.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 8 ounces Vanilla Ice Cream (1 cup)
- 1 ounce Grenadine
- 8 ounces Lemon Lime Soda
- Maraschino Cherries (optional)
- Lime Wedges (optional)
- Whipped Topping (optional)
- Pink Sanding Sugar (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the glass: Place the vanilla ice cream into the bottom of a tall glass, creating a creamy base for the float.
- Add grenadine: Drizzle the grenadine syrup gently over the ice cream to add a sweet, fruity layer.
- Pour soda: Slowly and carefully pour the lemon-lime soda over the ice cream and grenadine to maintain the float effect and create bubbles.
- Garnish and serve: Add a dollop of whipped topping if desired, then garnish with a maraschino cherry, a slice of lime, and a sprinkle of pink sanding sugar to enhance presentation and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy your Shirley Temple Float!
Notes
- For a stronger cherry flavor, add more grenadine to taste.
- Use fresh lime wedges and maraschino cherries for best garnish results.
- Serve immediately after pouring soda to maintain carbonation and float integrity.
- Can be made in individual servings or scaled up for a party punch bowl.
- Substitute lemon-lime soda with ginger ale or club soda for different flavor options.
