5-Minute Shirley Temple Float That Kids Adore

Question 1

Can I make Shirley Temple floats ahead of time?

Accepted Answer

Oh honey, no—learned this the hard way at my niece’s birthday. The soda goes flat, the ice cream melts into soup, and the magic disappears. Assemble these right before serving. My trick? Prep a "float station" with chilled glasses, ice cream scoop ready, and garnishes lined up—kids love customizing their own!

Question 2

Is grenadine alcoholic?

Accepted Answer

Nope! Standard grenadine is just pomegranate syrup with sugar and a hint of citrus (though check labels if you're wary—some fancy brands add floral waters). It’s why this mocktail float gets my mom stamp of approval. We keep a bottle next to the sprinkles for impromptu "fancy drink" nights.

Question 3

What’s the best vanilla ice cream brand?

Accepted Answer

Truth? Whatever’s in your freezer! I’ve used cheap vanilla swirl, premium custard-style, even homemade—all work. But between us, extra-creamy versions melt slower, creating that dreamy "cream soda" effect my kids fight over. My current fave: Tillamook’s Old-Fashioned. (Bonus tip: slightly softened ice cream sinks more dramatically—great for "volcano floats!")

Question 4

Can I skip the cherries?

Accepted Answer

Sure, but it’s like cupcakes without sprinkles—still tasty, just missing some joy! If allergies are a concern, try raspberries or strawberry slices. Once, in a pinch, I used gummy worms as "float monsters"—instant legend status with the 8-year-old crowd.

Shirley Temple Float

Ingredients

Instructions

Notes

Nutrition