Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float
Two classic favorites come together in a delightful treat with the Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float. This refreshing dessert is perfect for summer gatherings, kids’ parties, or any time you crave a sweet escape. With its fizzy and creamy combination, this float stands out as both a nostalgic and exciting option for all ages.

Why You’ll Love This Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float
This float is not just a drink; it’s an experience!
- Quick to Prepare: With only a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious treat in no time.
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of cherry soda and vanilla ice cream creates a delightful taste that pleases everyone.
- Customizable Garnishes: Add cherries, limes, or other fruits to personalize your float according to your preferences.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a family get-together, this drink fits right in.
- Non-Alcoholic Option: Enjoy all the fun of a classic soda float without any alcohol—great for kids and adults alike.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float, gather the right tools to ensure a smooth process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Pitcher
- Glasses or mugs
- Spoon for mixing
Importance of Each Tool
- Pitcher: A pitcher makes mixing the ingredients easy without spills.
- Glasses or Mugs: Choose fun glasses to enhance presentation and enjoyment of your float.
- Spoon for Mixing: A sturdy spoon helps combine the ingredients well for an even flavor.
Ingredients
Two classics- the Shirley Temple and Ice Cream Float- put together in one sweet dessert treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 can (3 cups) Cherry 7-up (or regular 7-up or Sprite)
– 1 cup Ginger-ale
– 2 Tablespoons grenadine
– Vanilla Ice Cream
– Cherries and limes
For Garnish
- Cherries
- Limes

How to Make Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float
Creating your Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float is simple! Just follow these easy steps.
Step 1: Mix the Base
In a pitcher, add the Cherry 7-up, ginger-ale, and grenadine. Stir gently until combined.
Step 2: Assemble the Floats
In 2-3 glasses or mugs:
1. Add 2 scoops of Vanilla Ice Cream.
2. Pour the mixed soda over the ice cream in each glass.
Step 3: Garnish and Serve
- Squeeze some fresh lime juice over each float.
- Top with a few cherries.
- Add straws and enjoy your refreshing treat!
How to Serve Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float
Serving a Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float is all about presentation and fun! This delightful drink can be enjoyed at parties, family gatherings, or as a refreshing treat on a hot day. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious dessert.
Festive Glassware
- Use colorful or themed glasses to enhance the visual appeal. Mason jars or clear mugs work great for showcasing the layers of ice cream and soda.
Garnish with Style
- Top each float with whipped cream, sprinkles, or extra cherries. A festive garnish adds an extra touch of joy to your drink.
Serve with Straws
- Provide colorful straws for each glass. Not only do they make sipping easier, but they also add a fun pop of color.
Create a Float Bar
- Set up a DIY float bar where guests can customize their drinks. Offer various sodas, ice cream flavors, and toppings for a personalized experience.
How to Perfect Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float
To ensure your Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float is perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use chilled glasses: Chilling your glasses beforehand keeps the float cold longer and enhances the overall experience.
- Layer carefully: Pour the soda mixture slowly over the ice cream to create beautiful layers and prevent too much fizz from overflowing.
- Choose quality ingredients: Using high-quality sodas and fresh ingredients will elevate the flavor of your float.
- Experiment with flavors: Try different sodas like lemon-lime or fruit-flavored varieties to find your favorite combination.
- Add more toppings: Don’t hesitate to get creative with toppings like chocolate syrup or crushed candies for added sweetness and crunch.

Best Side Dishes for Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float
Pairing side dishes with your Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float can turn your dessert into a full meal. Here are some tasty options that complement its sweet and fizzy flavors.
- Mini Sandwiches: Bite-sized sandwiches filled with ham, cheese, or veggies are easy to eat and pair well with floats.
- Fruit Skewers: Colorful skewers made from fresh fruit provide a refreshing balance to the sweetness of the float.
- Popcorn: Sweet or savory popcorn adds crunch and makes for a fun snack that guests will enjoy alongside their drinks.
- Cheese Platter: A variety of cheeses served with crackers offers a savory contrast to the sugary float.
- Veggie Sticks with Dip: Crisp veggies served with ranch or hummus keep things light and healthy while enjoying dessert.
- Cookies: Classic cookies like chocolate chip or sugar cookies are perfect sweet companions for this indulgent float.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float is simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin your experience.
- Using the wrong soda: Always choose Cherry 7-up or a similar soda. Regular 7-up or Sprite may not provide the right flavor balance.
- Not mixing properly: Ensure the grenadine mixes well with the sodas. A good mix creates delightful layers and enhances flavor.
- Skipping garnishes: Avoid missing out on cherries and limes. They add freshness and make your float visually appealing.
- Overfilling glasses: Be careful not to pour too much soda over the ice cream. Leave some room for bubbles to prevent spills.
- Serving too warm: Ensure your ice cream is cold before serving. Warm ice cream melts quickly, ruining your float’s texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftover Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float in an airtight container for up to 1 day.
- Keep the soda and ice cream separate if you plan to store it for longer.
Freezing Instructions
- Freeze leftover vanilla ice cream in its original container for up to 2 months.
- Avoid freezing the soda; it loses its carbonation.
Reheating Instructions
- Oven: Not applicable as this drink is best served cold.
- Microwave: Not recommended for this dessert; it will melt the ice cream too quickly.
- Stovetop: Not suitable; enjoy chilled for the best taste!

Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float?
A Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float combines the classic Shirley Temple drink with vanilla ice cream, creating a fun dessert treat.
Can I use different flavors of ice cream?
Yes, feel free to experiment! Flavors like cherry or lemon can add a unique twist to your Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float.
How do I make this float more festive?
Add colorful sprinkles or use fancy glasses to elevate your Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float for parties or celebrations.
Is this drink suitable for kids?
Absolutely! The Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float is a non-alcoholic beverage that kids will love.
Final Thoughts
The Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float is a delightful combination of flavors that brings joy to any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various ice creams and toppings. Give it a try, and enjoy this refreshing treat with family and friends!

Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 2
Description
Indulge in the nostalgic delight of a Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float, a perfect blend of fizzy cherry soda and creamy vanilla ice cream. This refreshing dessert is an ideal choice for summer gatherings, kids’ parties, or any time you crave a sweet escape. With its vibrant colors and delightful flavors, this float is not just a drink; it’s an experience that brings joy to all ages. Customize it with your favorite garnishes like cherries and limes to make it truly your own!
Ingredients
- 2 cans (3 cups) Cherry 7-Up (or regular 7-Up/Sprite)
- 1 cup Ginger Ale
- 2 tablespoons grenadine
- Vanilla ice cream
- Fresh cherries and limes for garnish
Instructions
- In a pitcher, combine Cherry 7-Up, ginger ale, and grenadine. Stir gently until mixed.
- In each glass, place 2 scoops of vanilla ice cream.
- Pour the soda mixture over the ice cream in each glass.
- Garnish with fresh lime juice and top with cherries.
- Serve with colorful straws and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 float (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 42g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg