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A delightful Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float that transforms the beloved mocktail into a creamy dessert drink. Each glass combines fizzy lemon-lime soda and ginger ale with sweet grenadine and creamy vanilla ice cream, creating a nostalgic treat that's both refreshing and indulgent.
This float brings back memories of special occasions at our local soda fountain. The first time I served these at a children's party, the pink color and fizzy ice cream combination had everyone asking for seconds.
Essential Ingredients
- Premium Lemon-Lime Soda: Sprite or 7UP
- Quality Ginger Ale: Regular, not diet
- Grenadine Syrup: Rose's brand preferred
- Premium Vanilla Ice Cream: Firm scoops
- Maraschino Cherries: With stems
- Tall Glasses: 16-ounce size
- Fun Straws: For serving
- Crushed Ice: Optional
STEP-BY-STEP PREPARATION
- 1. Liquid Base:
- In a pitcher, gently combine lemon-lime soda and ginger ale. Mix slowly to maintain carbonation. Add grenadine and stir just once - this creates the signature color gradient.
- 2. Glass Preparation:
- Choose tall 16-ounce fountain glasses or sundae glasses. If desired, chill glasses in freezer for 10 minutes for extra frostiness.
- 3. Ice Cream Addition:
- Place 2-3 firm scoops of premium vanilla ice cream in each glass. Use ice cream scoop dipped in hot water for perfect spheres.
- 4. Float Assembly:
- Slowly pour soda mixture over ice cream until glass is about 3/4 full. The foam will rise to create perfect float consistency.
- 5. Final Touches:
- Top each float with maraschino cherries on stems. Add colorful straws and long spoons for full soda fountain experience.
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Creating perfect floats reminds me of my first job at an ice cream parlor. The secret, our manager would say, is "treating each glass like it's going to make someone's day special."
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Storage and Make-Ahead Success
These floats are best prepared and served immediately for maximum fizz and proper ice cream consistency. However, you can prep components ahead: chill sodas thoroughly, pre-scoop ice cream and keep frozen on a lined tray, and prepare garnishes. Store extra soda mixture (without ice cream) in a covered pitcher for up to 24 hours.
Temperature and Serving Variations
For the perfect float temperature, use very cold sodas and frozen glasses, but let ice cream soften slightly for easier scooping. During summer parties, create a float station with pre-scooped ice cream in a bowl over ice, chilled sodas, and various toppings. Let guests build their own creations.
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Creative Adaptations
Transform this classic into different variations: try orange soda for a creamsicle version, root beer for a traditional float, or add a splash of fruit juice for extra flavor. For adults, add a shot of cherry vodka or rum. Create a sundae version by adding whipped cream, sprinkles, and chocolate sauce. The possibilities are endless with this versatile treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this without grenadine?
- Yes, you can substitute maraschino cherry juice for grenadine syrup.
- → How many scoops of ice cream should I use?
- Adjust ice cream amount based on glass size, typically 2 scoops per glass.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
- Best served immediately to maintain the fizz and prevent ice cream from melting.
- → Can I make an adult version?
- Yes, add vodka and amaretto for an alcoholic version.
- → What kind of glass should I use?
- Tall fountain glasses work best to show off the layers and hold the fizz.