This Easy Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float is a bubbly treat that kids and adults will love! It features sweet ginger ale, cherry syrup, and a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream.
Feel free to top it off with a cherry—extra points for making it look fancy! I love sipping this on warm days; it’s like a party in a glass. 🍒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ginger Ale: This is the fizzy base that gives the drink its refreshing taste. You can use any brand you prefer. If you’re looking for something less sweet, a diet or homemade ginger ale works well too.
Grenadine: This cherry syrup adds sweetness and a lovely pink color. If you don’t have grenadine, you can substitute it with cherry juice or raspberry syrup for a similar flavor and look.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic choice, but you can switch it up! Try cherry, raspberry, or any fruity flavor for a fun twist. Non-dairy ice creams also work well if you’re dairy-free.
Maraschino Cherries: These are a fun garnish! If you want a natural option, fresh cherries without the syrup can be a great substitute.
How Do I Layer My Float for the Best Effect?
Layering is key to an eye-catching float! To make sure your float looks fantastic, do this:
- Start by pouring ginger ale gently to avoid too much fizzing.
- Add the grenadine slowly; it will sink to the bottom, creating a beautiful gradient.
- For the ice cream, use a small cookie scoop to make neat balls. Gently place it on top to let it float.
- When you add the rest of the ginger ale, do it carefully around the edges to keep your ice cream intact.
- Finish with your garnishes for that extra flair!
Enjoy crafting your perfect Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float! Just remember, it’s all about the visual appeal and fun flavors!
Easy Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups ginger ale, chilled
- 1/4 cup grenadine (cherry syrup)
- 4 scoops vanilla ice cream
- Maraschino cherries, for garnish
- Lime slices, for garnish (optional)
- Paper straws (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare, perfect for a quick and refreshing treat! Gather your ingredients, assemble the float, and enjoy it immediately while it’s bubbly and cold.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Pour the Ginger Ale:
Start by pouring 1/2 cup of chilled ginger ale into a tall glass. This is the fizzy base that makes the drink refreshing.
2. Add the Grenadine:
Next, add 1 tablespoon of grenadine syrup into the glass. This cherry syrup will sink to the bottom and create a lovely color contrast.
3. Scoop the Ice Cream:
Gently place one scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of the ginger ale and grenadine mixture. Take your time to let it float on the bubbles.
4. Fill with More Ginger Ale:
Slowly pour in more ginger ale (about 1/2 cup) around the edges of the glass. This will make the ice cream foam up and create a delightful float effect.
5. Garnish Your Float:
Top off your creation with a maraschino cherry and if you’d like, a slice of lime on the rim of the glass for extra flair.
6. Repeat for More Servings:
If you’re serving more than one person, repeat these steps for additional glasses, making sure everyone gets to enjoy this fizzy treat!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float immediately with a straw. Gather your friends or family and enjoy this fun and refreshing drink together!
FAQ: Easy Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float
Can I Use Diet Ginger Ale?
Absolutely! Diet ginger ale works well if you want a lower-calorie option. The flavor will still be delicious, and it’ll create that bubbly effect you’re looking for!
What If I Don’t Have Grenadine?
No problem! If you don’t have grenadine, you can substitute it with cherry juice or even raspberry syrup for a similar fruity flavor. It’ll add that sweet touch without compromising on taste!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
These floats are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftover ingredients, store the ginger ale and grenadine separately in the fridge. Avoid storing the assembled float, as the ice cream will melt and alter the texture.
Can I Make This Float Ahead of Time?
While it’s best served fresh to enjoy that fizzy effect, you can prepare the ingredients ahead. Just mix the ginger ale and grenadine, and store them in the fridge. Add the ice cream just before serving for that perfect float!
