Shirley Temple Float

This Shirley Temple Float is a fun, fizzy twist on the classic mocktail. Sweet grenadine, bubbly ginger ale, and creamy vanilla ice cream come together for a nostalgic treat that’s easy to make and always a hit. It’s perfect for kids, parties, or anyone wanting a non-alcoholic dessert drink.

---

Tasting Notes

The Shirley Temple Float combines sweetness, fizz, and creamy texture in every sip. Grenadine provides a fruity base, adding cherry flavor and a deep pink hue. Ginger ale brings mild spice and gentle bubbles that lift the drink without overpowering it. As the vanilla ice cream melts, it adds a cool, smooth texture that softens the ginger ale’s bite and enhances the drink’s overall richness. The cherry garnish gives it a bright pop and nostalgic feel. This is a fun, refreshing drink that’s great for warm days or as a cheerful treat for both kids and adults.

Equipment and Glassware

You don’t need much to make a Shirley Temple Float, just basic kitchen tools. A tall glass, such as a highball or soda fountain glass, works best to allow room for the soda and scoops of ice cream. A long spoon helps layer and stir the ingredients gently. You may also want to use a small ice cream scoop to keep portions neat and consistent. If preparing more than one float, have a small pitcher of ginger ale ready to pour and create the bubbly lift right before serving.

Ingredients

• 1 oz grenadine
• 6 oz ginger ale
• 2 scoops vanilla ice cream
• Maraschino cherry, for garnish

Instructions

• Pour grenadine into the bottom of a highball glass.
• Carefully scoop in the vanilla ice cream.
• Slowly pour ginger ale over the ice cream until the glass is full.
• Finish with a maraschino cherry on top. Serve and enjoy!

Pro Tips

• Use chilled ginger ale to reduce excess foam
• Pour soda slowly down the side of the glass
• Use a small ice cream scoop for easier layering
• Serve with a spoon and straw for better enjoyment
• Add a splash of lemon-lime soda for more citrus flavor
• Substitute with cherry syrup if you don’t have grenadine
• Freeze your glass ahead of time to help the float stay cold
• For extra flair, add whipped cream on top
• Layer ingredients slowly to keep the ice cream from melting too quickly
• Make it a mocktail for kids or a base for spiked versions

When to Serve

This Shirley Temple Float is great for summer afternoons, birthday parties, or casual gatherings where a fun and refreshing drink is welcome. It’s perfect for non-alcoholic celebrations, poolside treats, or as a dessert substitute. Because it’s both sweet and fizzy, it works well at brunches or backyard cookouts. Kids and adults alike enjoy the mix of soda and ice cream, making it a versatile choice for group events. Serve immediately after assembling so the float keeps its structure and the soda doesn’t go flat.

Which Brands to Choose

• Grenadine: Rose’s, Small Hand Foods, Liber & Co.
• Ginger Ale: Canada Dry, Fever-Tree, Schweppes
• Vanilla Ice Cream: Häagen-Dazs, Tillamook, Breyers
• Maraschino Cherry: Luxardo, Reese, Royal Harvest

Similar Cocktails

• Virgin Raspberry Mango Margarita Slushie
• Pink Lady Mocktail
• Pineapple Ginger Lemonade Punch
• Copperhead
• Mimosa Punch