Shirley Temple Floats

If you're looking for the perfect low-lift summer treat, you really can't beat a float, and this one that combines everything you love about a Shirley Temple with creamy vanilla ice cream is tops. This foamy, fruit, smooth, and creamy confection is 50% drink, 50% dessert, and 100% a sweet tooth-satisfier. The best part? You’ll only need three ingredients that you might already have at home—grenadine, ginger ale, and vanilla ice cream.

Ginger ale or lemon-lime soda?
The contents of a true Shirley Temple are always up for debate, but the truth is the OG version of this classic mocktail features ginger ale, while the more modern version boasts the use of lemon-lime soda. I opted for ginger ale to stay true to the Shirley Temple’s roots, but this would be equally delicious with whatever lemon-lime soda you have on hand. Ginger beer would also be an excellent choice.

What kind of ice cream is best for a Shirley Temple Float?
In the name of simplicity, I stuck with vanilla, but don’t let that stop you from experimenting. Grenadine is pomegranate-flavored, so let that be your starting point for mixing and matching flavors. Cherry or chocolate ice cream would be a great place to start!

Variations:
Speaking of experimenting, I included a recipe below for orange soda floats to get your creative juices flowing. Our Dr. Pepper floats are also further proof that you can mix these up however you like, so feel free to sub in your favorite soda and ice cream. You can even take inspiration from our Dirty Shirleys, and add alcohol. I see a float party in your future!

Did you try making this? Let me know how it went in the comments below.