What type of soda is best for a Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float?

For the classic fizzy lift in your Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float, a crisp lemon-lime soda like Sprite or 7UP gives you that bright, bubbly platform. If you prefer something slightly warmer and less sharp, ginger ale works beautifully too. Pour it slowly over the ice cream to keep as much of the fizz intact as possible.

Can you use different ice cream flavors in a Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float?

Absolutely. While vanilla ice cream is the traditional choice—because it lets the grenadine and soda shine—you can mix it up with cherry, strawberry or even a light chocolate ice cream if you like. Just keep the flavor balance in mind so the drink remains refreshing and dessert-style, not overly heavy.

How soon should you serve a Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float after making it?

You should serve it right away. As soon as the soda hits the ice cream, the float begins losing its bubbly lift and the ice cream starts to melt fast. For best texture and visual appeal, combine and serve within a minute or two.

Is the Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float suitable for kids and adults alike?

Yes, it’s a fun non-alcoholic dessert drink that works perfectly for kids’ birthday parties and casual gatherings. For grown-ups, you can add a splash of cherry vodka (turning it into a “Dirty Shirley” variant) if you like, but the base version remains kid-friendly, nostalgic and inclusive of all ages.

Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float: Stunning Easy Treat Kids Love

Description

A refreshing Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float made with creamy vanilla ice cream, fizzy lemon-lime soda, sweet grenadine, and a classic cherry on top.

Ingredients

Scale

2 large scoops vanilla ice cream
1 cup lemon-lime soda or ginger ale, chilled
2 tablespoons grenadine
1–2 maraschino cherries
2 tablespoons whipped cream (optional)
1 lime wedge or slice for garnish (optional)

Cook Mode Keep your screen awake while you cook

Instructions

Chill your serving glass in the freezer for about 5 minutes so the ice cream melts more slowly.
Add two large scoops of vanilla ice cream to the cold glass, keeping them stacked neatly in the center.
Slowly pour the chilled lemon-lime soda or ginger ale over the ice cream, allowing the foam to rise without overflowing.
Drizzle the grenadine over the top so it swirls through the soda and around the ice cream, creating pink ribbons of color.
Top the float with whipped cream if you like, then add a maraschino cherry and a lime wedge or slice for garnish.
Serve the Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float immediately with a straw and a long spoon while it is still fizzy and creamy.

Notes

For a stronger citrus flavor, add a small squeeze of fresh lime juice before pouring in the soda.
Use premium vanilla ice cream for a richer, creamier float, or a lighter ice cream if you prefer a less heavy dessert.
To prep for a party, pre-scoop the ice cream onto a parchment-lined tray and freeze, then drop the scoops into glasses just before serving and finish with soda and grenadine.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Drinks
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 float
Calories: 400
Sugar: 60
Sodium: 70
Fat: 14
Saturated Fat: 9
Unsaturated Fat: 5
Trans Fat: 0
Carbohydrates: 60
Fiber: 0
Protein: 5
Cholesterol: 55