Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float

The Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float is a delightful mix of two beloved classics, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. This refreshing dessert combines the fizzy sweetness of soda with creamy vanilla ice cream, creating a fun and nostalgic experience for kids and adults alike. Whether you’re hosting a summer party, celebrating a birthday, or just indulging in a sweet moment at home, this float will surely impress. Its vibrant colors and delightful flavors make it an ideal choice for festive gatherings or casual get-togethers.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Soda Base
• For the Float
• How to Make Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float
• Step 1: Prepare the Soda Mixture
• Step 2: Assemble the Floats
• Step 3: Add Final Touches
• How to Serve Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float
• Classic Presentation
• Festive Garnish
• Kids’ Party Favors
• Elegant Gatherings
• Poolside Refreshment
• How to Perfect Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float
• Best Side Dishes for Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float
• Reheating Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is a Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float?
• Can I use different sodas in my float?
• How can I customize my Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float?
• Is the Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float suitable for kids?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just five minutes of preparation time, you can whip up this delicious float in no time.
• Refreshing Flavor: The combination of cherry soda and ginger-ale creates a bubbly, fruity taste that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Occasion: Suitable for birthday parties, summer picnics, or simply a sweet afternoon treat.
• Kid-Friendly: This non-alcoholic drink is perfect for kids and adults looking for a nostalgic beverage.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite fruits or experiment with different sodas to create your unique twist.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. These items ensure smooth preparation and enhance your overall experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pitcher
• Glasses or mugs
• Spoon or straw

Importance of Each Tool

• Pitcher: A pitcher helps mix all the ingredients uniformly while allowing you to pour easily into glasses.
• Glasses or mugs: Choose fun glassware to showcase the float’s vibrant colors, making it visually appealing.
• Spoon or straw: Essential for enjoying every last drop of your delicious float!

Ingredients

Two classics- the Shirley Temple and Ice Cream Float- put together in one sweet dessert treat.

For the Soda Base

• 2 can (3 cups) Cherry 7-up (or regular 7-up or Sprite)
• 1 cup Ginger-ale
• 2 Tablespoons grenadine

For the Float

• Vanilla Ice Cream
• Cherries
• Limes

How to Make Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float

Step 1: Prepare the Soda Mixture

In a pitcher, add the 7-up, ginger-ale, and grenadine. Mix well until combined.

Step 2: Assemble the Floats

In 2-3 glasses or mugs:
1. Add 2 scoops of Vanilla Ice Cream.
2. Carefully pour the soda mixture over the ice cream in each glass.

Step 3: Add Final Touches

1. Squeeze some lime juice on top for an extra zing.
2. Garnish with cherries and insert straws before serving.

Enjoy your refreshing Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float!

How to Serve Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float

Serving the Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float is all about presentation and fun! This delightful drink looks as good as it tastes, making it perfect for parties or casual gatherings. Here are some creative serving suggestions:

Classic Presentation

• Use clear glasses to showcase the vibrant colors of the drink and ice cream.
• Top each float with a cherry for a classic touch.

Festive Garnish

• Add lime wedges on the rim of the glass for a zesty look.
• Consider using colorful straws to enhance the festive vibe.

Kids’ Party Favors

• Serve in themed cups featuring characters or colors that match your party’s theme.
• Create a DIY float bar where kids can customize their floats with various toppings.

Elegant Gatherings

• Use fancy goblets or dessert dishes for a more sophisticated appearance.
• Drizzle chocolate or caramel syrup on top for an elegant finish.

Poolside Refreshment

• Serve in insulated tumblers to keep drinks cold on hot days.
• Pair with beach-themed decorations like mini umbrellas or cocktail stirrers.

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How to Perfect Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float

To achieve the ultimate Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float, pay attention to detail and execution. Here are some tips to make your float stand out:

• Choose quality ingredients: Opt for fresh ginger-ale and premium vanilla ice cream for the best flavor.
• Chill your glasses: Pre-chill your serving glasses in the freezer for a refreshing experience.
• Layer carefully: Pour the soda gently over the ice cream to maintain distinct layers.
• Use fresh garnishes: Fresh cherries and limes not only taste better but also enhance presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float

Pairing side dishes with your Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some tasty options:

1. Mini Sandwiches: Bite-sized sandwiches, like ham and cheese or cucumber, provide a savory contrast to the sweet float.
2. Fruit Skewers: Colorful fruit skewers add freshness and make for easy snacking alongside your float.
3. Cheese Platter: A variety of cheeses can balance the sweetness of the float while adding richness to your spread.
4. Veggie Sticks with Dip: Crisp veggies served with ranch or hummus offer a light crunch that complements sweet flavors.
5. Popcorn Mix: Sweet and salty popcorn mix is a fun finger food that pairs well with fizzy drinks.
6. Brownie Bites: Rich brownie bites are perfect for satisfying chocolate cravings alongside this fruity treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float, it’s easy to make a few common errors that might affect your drink’s flavor and presentation. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using flat soda – Always use fresh soda for the best fizz. Check the expiration date before using any soft drinks.
• Overfilling the glass – Pour slowly to avoid overflow. Leave some space at the top for ice cream and toppings.
• Skipping garnishes – Don’t forget cherries and lime! These add flavor and make your float look appealing.
• Not mixing properly – Stir the soda mixture well before pouring it over ice cream. This ensures even flavor distribution.
• Choosing the wrong ice cream – Stick with vanilla for a classic taste. Experimenting with other flavors can lead to unexpected results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store any leftover mixture in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Containers: Use an airtight container to preserve freshness.

Freezing Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float

• Duration: Do not freeze the float as this will alter its texture significantly. However, you can freeze leftover soda mixture for later use.
• Containers: Use freezer-safe containers if freezing soda.

Reheating Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float

• Oven: Not applicable; this drink is best served cold.
• Microwave: Avoid reheating; it’s meant to be enjoyed chilled.
• Stovetop: Not recommended; serve immediately after mixing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float:

What is a Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float?

The Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float combines the classic Shirley Temple drink with creamy vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.

Can I use different sodas in my float?

Yes! You can substitute Cherry 7-Up with any lemon-lime soda or ginger ale for a unique twist on this classic recipe.

How can I customize my Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float?

Feel free to add fruits like strawberries or oranges, or try different flavors of ice cream to create your perfect combination.

Is the Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float suitable for kids?

Absolutely! This non-alcoholic beverage is perfect for kids and makes a great addition to birthday parties or summer gatherings.

Final Thoughts

The Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float is a delightful blend of flavors that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various sodas and toppings, making it an ideal treat for any occasion. Give this sweet dessert a try, and enjoy creating your own variations!