Shirley Temple Float Recipe – Easy & Refreshing Treat!

this RECIPE

There’s something truly magical about a classic Shirley Temple drink – it’s sweet, fizzy, and nostalgic. But what if we take it up a notch? Introducing the Shirley Temple Float Recipe, a delightful twist that combines the iconic flavors of lemon-lime soda, grenadine, and a creamy scoop of vanilla ice cream. This recipe is a surefire hit for parties, family gatherings, or just when you need a little pick-me-up!

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Why You’ll Love This Shirley Temple Float Recipe

There are so many reasons to adore this float:

• Fun and nostalgic: Brings back childhood memories with an indulgent ice cream twist.
• Quick and easy: Only a handful of ingredients and ready in minutes.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a summer party or a cozy movie night, this float fits right in.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste preferences.

What Does a Shirley Temple Float Taste Like?

Imagine the classic sweet and tangy Shirley Temple drink, with a fizzy blend of lemon-lime soda and grenadine, but now with a rich, creamy vanilla twist! The ice cream melts into the drink, creating a velvety texture, while the maraschino cherries and lime slices add the perfect pop of flavor. It’s fizzy, sweet, creamy, and utterly irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these simple ingredients to whip up your Shirley Temple Float:

• 2 ½ cups lemon-lime soda (such as 7UP or Sprite), chilled
• 1 cup ginger ale, chilled
• 2 tablespoons grenadine syrup
• 4 scoops vanilla ice cream
• Maraschino cherries, for garnish
• Lime slices, for garnish

Kitchen Tools Needed

To make this delightful treat, you’ll need:

• A large pitcher to mix the drinks
• Serving glasses for presentation
• Ice cream scooper for easy serving
• Stirring spoon to mix the drink evenly

Ingredient Additions & Substitutions

Want to get creative with your Shirley Temple Float? Here are some fun ideas:

• Substitutions:
  • Swap vanilla ice cream with strawberry or coconut ice cream for a tropical twist.
  • Use cherry-flavored soda instead of ginger ale for an extra fruity punch.
  • Replace grenadine with pomegranate syrup for a richer flavor.
• Additions:
  • A splash of orange juice for added citrusy goodness.
  • Whipped cream on top for an extra indulgent treat.
  • Fresh mint leaves for a refreshing touch.

How to Make a Shirley Temple Float

Follow these easy steps to create the perfect Shirley Temple Float:

1. Mix the base: In a large pitcher, combine the chilled lemon-lime soda and ginger ale.
2. Add grenadine: Stir in the grenadine syrup until well blended, creating that beautiful signature pink hue.
3. Serve with ice cream: Pour the mixture into serving glasses and add a scoop of vanilla ice cream to each.
4. Garnish: Top with maraschino cherries and a slice of lime for a fun and festive touch.
5. Enjoy immediately! Grab a spoon and straw, and dive into the fizzy, creamy goodness.

What to Serve with Shirley Temple Floats

Pair your float with these delicious treats:

• Classic popcorn for a fun movie night
• Fresh fruit skewers to balance the sweetness
• Mini cupcakes for an extra indulgence
• Savory snacks like cheese platters to offset the sweetness

Tips for the Perfect Shirley Temple Float

• Chill your ingredients: Make sure your sodas and grenadine are ice-cold to enhance the flavors and keep the drink refreshing.
• Don’t overmix: Stir gently to maintain the fizz and prevent the drink from going flat.
• Serve immediately: This float is best enjoyed right after making to enjoy the fizzy and creamy contrast.
• Layer it: For a more visually appealing float, add the grenadine last to create a layered effect.

Conservation and Storage of Shirley Temple Float

Since Shirley Temple Floats are best enjoyed fresh, proper conservation can be a bit tricky. However, here are a few tips to help you prepare in advance and store components if needed.

Can You Make Shirley Temple Floats Ahead of Time?

The float’s fizzy and creamy combination is at its best when served immediately, as the ice cream melts quickly, blending with the soda and changing its texture. However, you can prepare parts of the drink ahead of time.

Storage Tips

If you need to plan ahead:

1. Prepare the soda mixture in advance:
   • Mix the lemon-lime soda, ginger ale, and grenadine syrup in a pitcher.
   • Store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, keeping it tightly covered to prevent loss of carbonation.
   • Stir gently before serving to refresh the flavors.
2. Keep the ice cream separate:
   • Store the vanilla ice cream in the freezer until you’re ready to serve.
   • Use an airtight container to prevent freezer burn and maintain a creamy texture.
3. Garnishes:
   • Maraschino cherries and lime slices can be prepared ahead and stored in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.

How to Serve from Prepped Ingredients

When you’re ready to serve:

1. Pour the pre-chilled soda mixture into glasses.
2. Add freshly scooped ice cream on top.
3. Garnish with cherries and lime slices for a fresh, festive touch.

Handling Leftovers

If you have leftover float mixtures:

• Without ice cream: Store in an airtight bottle in the fridge for up to 1 day, but note that it may lose some fizz over time.
• With ice cream: Unfortunately, fully made floats don’t store well, as the ice cream melts and alters the texture. It’s best to enjoy them immediately.

Can You Freeze a Shirley Temple Float?

Freezing an assembled float isn’t recommended, as the carbonation will be lost, and the ice cream will create an uneven texture when thawed. However, you can freeze the soda mixture into ice cubes to use later and maintain the fizzy effect when serving.

Fun Variations of the Shirley Temple Float

Want to put your own spin on this classic treat? There are plenty of creative ways to customize your Shirley Temple Float to match your taste preferences or special occasions. Whether you want a tropical twist, a grown-up version, or a holiday-inspired treat, here are some delightful variations to try!

1. Tropical Shirley Temple Float 🌴🍍

Take your taste buds on a tropical getaway with this fruity version.

Ingredients:

• Swap ginger ale for pineapple juice for a sweet tropical vibe.
• Add a splash of coconut cream for richness.
• Use coconut or pineapple ice cream instead of vanilla.
• Garnish with a slice of pineapple and a cherry.

Perfect For: Summer pool parties or a refreshing vacation-inspired treat.

2. Grown-Up Shirley Temple Float (Cocktail Version) 🍹✨

Want to enjoy this childhood favorite with an adult twist? Add a little kick!

Ingredients:

• Add a shot of vodka, rum, or prosecco to each glass.
• Use cherry-flavored sparkling water instead of soda for a lighter option.
• Try gourmet vanilla bean ice cream for a rich, decadent experience.

Perfect For: Brunches, dinner parties, or festive celebrations.

3. Cherry Limeade Shirley Temple Float 🍒🍋

Add a zesty twist with this refreshing variation!

Ingredients:

• Swap the lemon-lime soda for cherry limeade or lime sparkling water.
• Add fresh squeezed lime juice for extra tartness.
• Use lime sherbet instead of vanilla ice cream.
• Garnish with lime zest for an extra citrusy kick.

Perfect For: A refreshing summer drink with a tangy edge.

4. Holiday Shirley Temple Float 🎄🎉

Give your float a festive twist for the holidays!

Ingredients:

• Use cranberry juice instead of grenadine for a tart, festive flavor.
• Add a splash of gingerbread syrup for a holiday spice kick.
• Use peppermint or cinnamon ice cream for a seasonal touch.
• Garnish with crushed candy canes and a sprig of rosemary for a holiday feel.

Perfect For: Christmas parties or cozy winter nights by the fireplace.

5. Creamsicle Shirley Temple Float 🍊🍦

A citrusy, creamy delight inspired by the classic orange creamsicle!

Ingredients:

• Replace ginger ale with orange soda for a bold citrus flavor.
• Add a splash of vanilla extract for extra sweetness.
• Use orange sherbet instead of vanilla ice cream.
• Garnish with an orange slice for a colorful presentation.

Perfect For: A nostalgic treat reminiscent of summer days.

6. Berry Blast Shirley Temple Float 🍓🫐

Bursting with berry flavors, this version is a fruity explosion!

Ingredients:

• Mix in a handful of fresh berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries.
• Use berry-flavored sparkling water for an extra punch.
• Try raspberry sorbet instead of vanilla ice cream.
• Garnish with fresh mint and a berry skewer.

Serving Suggestions for Shirley Temple Float 🍹✨

A Shirley Temple Float is more than just a delicious drink—it’s a fun and festive treat that can be enjoyed on many occasions. Whether you’re hosting a party, having a family movie night, or just indulging in a sweet treat, there are plenty of ways to elevate your serving game and make this float even more enjoyable.

Here are some creative ideas to serve your Shirley Temple Float in style!

1. Classic Party Presentation 🎉

Make your Shirley Temple Float the star of the party!

How to Serve:

• Use tall soda glasses or mason jars for a vintage soda shop feel.
• Add colorful paper straws and cocktail umbrellas to match the festive vibe.
• Place on a tray with maraschino cherries and lime slices for guests to customize.
• Offer a variety of ice cream flavors so guests can create their own floats.

Perfect For: Birthday parties, BBQs, and celebrations.

2. Elegant Dinner Dessert 🍽️

Turn this fun drink into a sophisticated dessert for your dinner guests.

How to Serve:

• Pour the float into stemmed glasses or coupe glasses for a touch of elegance.
• Add a small scoop of ice cream instead of a large one for a refined look.
• Garnish with a fresh sprig of mint and a twist of lime zest.
• Serve alongside chocolate truffles or shortbread cookies for a luxurious pairing.

Perfect For: Dinner parties, date nights, and special occasions.

3. Kid-Friendly Float Bar 🎈

Set up a fun and interactive Shirley Temple Float station for kids to enjoy!

How to Serve:

• Create a DIY float bar with different soda options like Sprite, ginger ale, and flavored sparkling water.
• Offer fun toppings like whipped cream, sprinkles, and gummy candies.
• Use colorful plastic cups with lids and fun stirrers to avoid spills.
• Provide mini spoons and straws so kids can enjoy both sipping and scooping.

Perfect For: Kids’ birthday parties, playdates, and family get-togethers.

4. Outdoor Summer Vibes ☀️

A Shirley Temple Float is a perfect refreshing treat for hot summer days.

How to Serve:

• Use frozen lime slices as decorative ice cubes to keep the drink cool longer.
• Serve in plastic tumblers for poolside sipping.
• Pair with grilled burgers and fresh fruit platters for a summer feast.
• Add a scoop of sorbet instead of ice cream for a refreshing, lighter option.

Perfect For: Picnics, beach days, and backyard barbecues.

5. Holiday-Themed Float ❄️🎄

Give your Shirley Temple Float a festive twist for the holidays!

How to Serve:

• Use themed cups and napkins to match the holiday season (red and green for Christmas, pastel for Easter, etc.).
• Garnish with crushed candy canes or cinnamon sticks for a cozy winter treat.
• Pair with holiday cookies like gingerbread or sugar cookies.
• Offer a hot chocolate float version by replacing soda with warmed chocolate milk.

Perfect For: Christmas parties, New Year’s Eve, and winter gatherings.

Shirley Temple Float FAQs

Q: Can I make this without ice cream?
A: Absolutely! Simply enjoy it as a classic Shirley Temple drink without the ice cream for a lighter option.

Q: Can I make this float alcoholic?
A: Yes! Add a splash of vodka, rum, or prosecco for an adult-friendly version.

Q: Can I use diet soda instead?
A: Of course! Diet versions of lemon-lime soda and ginger ale work just as well.

Q: How can I make it less sweet?
A: Reduce the grenadine to 1 tablespoon and add more lime slices for a tangy twist.

Q: What’s the best way to serve this at a party?
A: Set up a DIY float station with different soda flavors, ice creams, and toppings for guests to customize their drinks.

Conclusion

This Shirley Temple Float is a fun, fizzy, and creamy treat that brings a touch of nostalgia and indulgence to any occasion. Whether you’re making it for kids or dressing it up for adults, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.

Looking for more sweet recipes? Try our peach cobbler float or strawberry shortcake milkshake next!

Share Your Creation!

If you try this Shirley Temple Float, we’d love to see it! Tag us on Instagram or Pinterest and share your photos with the hashtag #ShirleyTempleFloat. Don’t forget to leave a review below and let us know how you enjoyed it!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~220
• Carbs: 50g
• Fat: 5g
• Sugar: 40g
• Protein: 2g

Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced lifestyle!

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