Shirley Temple Float

Growing up, ordering a Shirley Temple always felt like a big deal. It was the drink you asked for when everyone else had something fancy in their glass, and somehow it made you feel included. Turning that familiar favorite into a Shirley Temple Float takes those memories and adds a dessert twist that still feels fun and nostalgic.

This version leans fully into the idea of dessert mocktails while keeping everything non alcoholic. The creamy ice cream, fizzy soda, and sweet grenadine come together in a way that feels playful but still totally satisfying. I love this because it works for kids, adults, and anyone who wants a treat without reaching for alcohol.

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Why You’ll Love This Shirley Temple Float

This drink checks a lot of boxes, especially if you enjoy sweet treats that are easy to make. It feels familiar but still special, which is not always easy to pull off with non alcoholic drinks. The float element adds texture and makes it feel like more than just a soda.

• It is completely non alcoholic and family friendly
• Works as both a drink and a dessert
• Uses simple store bought ingredients
• Quick to assemble with no prep time
• A hit at parties and casual gatherings
• Easy to customize for different tastes

Once you try it this way, it is hard to go back to a basic Shirley Temple. The float version turns it into something you actually look forward to serving.

Ingredients

The beauty of this Shirley Temple Float is how straightforward the ingredient list is. Each item plays a clear role, and there is no need for anything complicated. When the basics are good quality, the final drink really shines.

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

Ginger ale adds a gentle spice, while lemon lime soda keeps things lighter and sweeter. Grenadine gives that classic color and cherry flavor, and vanilla ice cream brings the creamy float texture that makes this drink feel like dessert.

Suggested Brands and Substitutions

Even with simple ingredients, brand choices can make a difference. Picking a soda you enjoy on its own is always a good starting point. Substitutions are easy if you want to adjust sweetness or flavor.

• Canada Dry Ginger Ale for a classic, crisp base
• Sprite or 7UP if you prefer a sweeter soda
• Real pomegranate grenadine for a deeper fruit flavor
• Cherry syrup if grenadine is not available
• Dairy free vanilla ice cream for a lactose free option

If you like a less sweet drink, ginger ale paired with a lighter hand on the grenadine works well. For dessert mocktails, it is all about balance.

Equipment and Glassware

You do not need bar tools for this one, which makes it even more appealing. It is easy to throw together with items you already have in your kitchen. The right glass just helps show it off.

• Jigger
• Bar Spoon
• Ice cream scoop
• Highball Glass

A clear glass lets you see the layers and color, which adds to the experience. If serving guests, chilled glasses help keep the float from melting too fast.

How to Make It

Putting together a Shirley Temple Float is more about assembly than mixing. Taking your time with the order helps everything look and taste right. This is one of those drinks where presentation really matters.

1. Add the grenadine to the bottom of a tall glass.
2. Slowly pour in the ginger ale or lemon lime soda to avoid overflow.
3. Gently drop in a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
4. Garnish with a maraschino cherry and whipped cream if using.

Once assembled, serve right away. If you want a stronger cherry flavor, add a splash more grenadine before serving.

Pro Tips

These small tips help keep your float looking good and tasting balanced. Since the drink is simple, little details make a big difference. They also help avoid common float mistakes.

• Pour soda slowly to keep it from foaming over
• Use full fat ice cream for the creamiest texture
• Chill your soda so the ice cream melts slower
• Add grenadine first for better color distribution
• Serve immediately for best texture
• Use a spoon and straw so guests can enjoy both layers
• Taste your soda first to adjust grenadine amount

Once you have the basics down, feel free to play around. That is part of the fun with non alcoholic dessert mocktails.

Variations

This Shirley Temple Float is easy to adapt based on what you have or who you are serving. Small swaps can change the flavor without losing the classic feel. These ideas are great starting points.

• Swap vanilla ice cream for cherry or chocolate
• Use orange soda for a citrus twist
• Add a splash of cherry juice for extra fruit flavor
• Make a mini float using smaller glasses for parties
• Use sparkling water plus grenadine for a lighter version

Each variation keeps the drink fun and flexible, which makes it easy to serve again and again.

When to Serve and Pairings

This drink works in more situations than you might expect. It is not just for kids, even though they love it too. The float style makes it feel festive and share worthy.

• Birthday parties and celebrations
• Movie nights or game nights
• Summer gatherings and cookouts
• Dessert course after casual dinners

Pair it with simple desserts like cookies or brownies, or serve it alongside salty snacks for contrast. It also fits well with other non alcoholic drinks like cream sodas or fruit spritzers.

Storage and Serving Notes

This drink is best made fresh and served right away. Floats do not store well once assembled because the ice cream melts quickly. If you are serving a group, prep the ingredients and assemble each glass as needed.

You can pre chill glasses and soda to speed things up. Keeping everything cold helps the float hold its shape longer.

FAQs

People often have questions about floats, especially when making them for the first time. These answers cover the most common concerns and help avoid surprises.

Can I make this ahead of time?
It is best to make it right before serving. Ice cream melts fast and changes the texture.

Is this drink completely non alcoholic?
Yes, this Shirley Temple Float contains no alcohol at all.

What if I do not like ginger ale?
Lemon lime soda works just as well and keeps the drink sweet and light.

Can I make this dairy free?
Yes, use a dairy free vanilla ice cream. Coconut or oat based options work well.

Is this too sweet for adults?
You can reduce the grenadine or use sparkling water to make it less sweet.

More Cocktails and Mocktails to Try

If you enjoyed this Shirley Temple Float, there are plenty of other fun drinks to try next. These options keep the same playful, crowd friendly vibe.

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