Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float: A Refreshing Summer Treat

Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float: Remember those fizzy, bright red drinks from childhood, adorned with maraschino cherries? Now, imagine that nostalgic flavor transformed into a creamy, dreamy dessert! I’m thrilled to share my recipe for a Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float, a delightful twist on a classic that’s perfect for kids and adults alike.

The Shirley Temple, named after the iconic child actress, has been a staple on restaurant menus since the 1930s. While its exact origins are debated, the drink’s enduring popularity speaks to its simple yet satisfying combination of ginger ale, grenadine, and a touch of sweetness. This ice cream float takes that beloved flavor profile and elevates it to a whole new level of indulgence.

What makes this Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of sweet and fizzy, creamy and refreshing. The vanilla ice cream adds a luxurious texture, while the ginger ale provides a delightful effervescence that dances on your tongue. And of course, no Shirley Temple-inspired treat would be complete without a generous helping of maraschino cherries! Whether you’re looking for a fun dessert for a summer barbecue or a nostalgic treat to brighten your day, this float is sure to be a hit. Get ready to experience a taste of childhood magic in every sip!

this RECIPE

Ingredients:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon almond extract
• 1 (12 ounce) can ginger ale, chilled
• Grenadine syrup, to taste
• Maraschino cherries, for garnish
• Orange slices, for garnish (optional)

Making the Ice Cream Base

Okay, let’s get started with the ice cream! This part is super important because it’s the foundation of our amazing Shirley Temple float. We’re going to make a simple, yet delicious, vanilla-almond ice cream that perfectly complements the flavors of the drink.

1. Combine the Dairy: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and salt. Make sure the sugar is well incorporated before moving on to the next step. We want a smooth and creamy base, so no gritty sugar allowed!
2. Heat the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly with a spatula or whisk to prevent scorching. We’re not looking to boil the mixture, just to heat it enough to dissolve the sugar completely. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture is smooth and slightly steamy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
3. Check for Dissolved Sugar: To ensure the sugar is fully dissolved, rub a small amount of the mixture between your fingers. If you feel any granules, continue heating and stirring until it’s completely smooth. Undissolved sugar can result in a grainy ice cream, and we definitely don’t want that!
4. Cool the Base: Remove the saucepan from the heat and pour the mixture into a clean bowl. Stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract. The almond extract is key here, as it adds that subtle cherry-like flavor that’s characteristic of a Shirley Temple.
5. Chill Thoroughly: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the mixture to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This chilling period is crucial for the ice cream to churn properly and develop the best flavor. The colder the base, the smoother the ice cream will be.

Churning the Ice Cream

Now for the fun part – churning! This is where the magic happens and our liquid base transforms into creamy, dreamy ice cream. Make sure your ice cream maker is ready to go before you start.

1. Prepare the Ice Cream Maker: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your ice cream maker. If you have a freezer bowl type, ensure it has been frozen solid for at least 24 hours. A properly frozen bowl is essential for successful ice cream making.
2. Pour in the Base: Once the ice cream maker is ready, pour the chilled ice cream base into the bowl.
3. Churn According to Instructions: Turn on the ice cream maker and let it churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes. The ice cream is ready when it has a soft-serve consistency.
4. Check the Consistency: Keep an eye on the ice cream as it churns. You want it to be thick and creamy, but not too hard. If it starts to look too solid, stop the churning process.
5. Transfer to a Container: Once the ice cream has reached the desired consistency, transfer it to an airtight container.
6. Freeze to Harden: Place the container in the freezer for at least 2-3 hours to harden completely. This will give the ice cream a scoopable texture.

Assembling the Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float

Alright, we’ve got our homemade ice cream ready to go. Now it’s time to assemble the star of the show – the Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float! This is where we combine the ice cream with the classic Shirley Temple flavors to create a truly unforgettable treat.

1. Chill Your Glasses: For the best experience, chill your serving glasses in the freezer for about 15-20 minutes before assembling the floats. This will help keep the float cold and prevent the ice cream from melting too quickly.
2. Add Grenadine: Pour a tablespoon or two of grenadine syrup into the bottom of each chilled glass. The amount of grenadine you use will depend on your personal preference, so feel free to adjust it to your liking.
3. Add Ice Cream: Scoop 2-3 scoops of the hardened vanilla-almond ice cream into each glass, on top of the grenadine.
4. Top with Ginger Ale: Slowly pour chilled ginger ale over the ice cream, leaving about an inch of space at the top of the glass. The ginger ale will fizz and create a lovely foam.
5. Garnish Generously: Garnish each float with a maraschino cherry or two. You can also add an orange slice for an extra touch of citrusy flavor.
6. Serve Immediately: Serve the Shirley Temple Ice Cream Floats immediately and enjoy! The combination of the creamy ice cream, fizzy ginger ale, and sweet grenadine is simply irresistible.

Tips and Variations

Want to take your Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float to the next level? Here are a few tips and variations to try:

• Homemade Ginger Ale: For an extra special treat, try making your own ginger ale. There are plenty of recipes online, and it’s surprisingly easy to do.
• Different Ice Cream Flavors: While vanilla-almond ice cream is the classic choice, you can experiment with other flavors. Cherry vanilla, vanilla bean, or even a touch of citrus ice cream would all be delicious.
• Whipped Cream Topping: Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of the float for an extra layer of indulgence.
• Chocolate Shavings: Sprinkle some chocolate shavings over the whipped cream for a decadent touch.
• Non-Alcoholic Option: This recipe is naturally non-alcoholic, making it perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet float, reduce the amount of grenadine syrup.
• Make it a Party: Set up a Shirley Temple Float bar with different toppings and garnishes, and let your guests create their own custom floats.

Storing Leftover Ice Cream

If you happen to have any leftover ice cream (which is unlikely!), store it in an airtight container in the freezer. To prevent ice crystals from forming, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the ice cream before sealing the container. Homemade ice cream is best enjoyed within a week or two.

Troubleshooting

Sometimes, things don’t go exactly as planned. Here are a few common issues you might encounter and how to fix them:

• Grainy Ice Cream: This is usually caused by undissolved sugar. Make sure to dissolve the sugar completely before chilling the base.
• Icy Ice Cream: This can happen if the ice cream base wasn’t chilled properly or if the ice cream wasn’t frozen quickly enough. Ensure the base is thoroughly chilled and freeze the ice cream in an airtight container.
• Soft Ice Cream: This could be due to a warm ice cream maker bowl or not enough churning time. Make sure the bowl is frozen solid and churn the ice cream until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy making and savoring this delightful Shirley Temple Ice Cream Float! It’s a fun and festive treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different flavors and toppings to create your own unique version. Happy floating!

Conclusion:

This isn’t just another dessert; it’s a trip down memory lane with a modern, delicious twist! The Shirley Temple ice cream float is a must-try because it perfectly balances the sweet nostalgia of your favorite childhood drink with the creamy indulgence of ice cream. It’s incredibly easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers maximum flavor. Seriously, what’s not to love?

Think of it: the bright, bubbly grenadine mingling with the vanilla ice cream, creating a symphony of sweet and slightly tart notes that dance on your tongue. The ginger ale adds a refreshing zing, cutting through the richness and leaving you wanting more. It’s the perfect treat for a hot summer day, a fun party dessert, or simply a little something special to brighten up your week.

But the best part? It’s completely customizable! While I’ve shared my go-to recipe, feel free to experiment and make it your own.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* For the Adults: Want to add a little kick? A splash of vodka or rum transforms this into a delightful adult beverage. Just be sure to enjoy responsibly!
* Fruity Fun: Add a few maraschino cherries (of course!), pineapple chunks, or even a few raspberries for an extra burst of fruity flavor.
* Ice Cream Adventures: While vanilla is classic, don’t be afraid to experiment with different ice cream flavors. Cherry vanilla, strawberry, or even a citrus sorbet would be fantastic additions.
* Garnish Galore: Top your float with whipped cream, sprinkles, a cherry on top (naturally!), or even a drizzle of chocolate syrup for an extra touch of decadence.
* Presentation is Key: Serve your Shirley Temple ice cream float in a tall, elegant glass for a truly special presentation. A simple straw and a cherry perched on the rim elevate the experience.
* Make it a Party: Set up a “float bar” with different ice cream flavors, toppings, and garnishes, and let your guests create their own personalized Shirley Temple ice cream float masterpieces. It’s a guaranteed hit!
* Dietary Considerations: Use sugar-free ginger ale and a low-fat ice cream alternative for a lighter version. You can even find sugar-free grenadine to further reduce the sugar content.

I truly believe that this recipe is a winner. It’s simple, delicious, and guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. It’s a fantastic way to introduce a classic flavor to a new generation, or simply relive some cherished childhood memories. The Shirley Temple ice cream float is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, grab your favorite glass, and get ready to create a little bit of magic. I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do.

And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try the recipe? Did you make any variations? What did you think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. I can’t wait to see your creations and hear your feedback. Happy floating!