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That fizzy pink float you remember from parties as a kid just got a vegan twist It is creamy sweet and sparkling and perfect for both lively get togethers and quiet nights when you want to channel some old school soda fountain vibes
Ingredients
- Ginger ale: look for bottles without high fructose corn syrup chill well for the fizziest float
- Grenadine syrup: choose pure pomegranate based grenadine for the most authentic flavor and fewer additives
- Vegan vanilla ice cream: opt for a coconut or oat milk base for creaminess check labels for allergens if needed
- Maraschino cherries: not all are vegan friendly so be sure to check or go for natural colored brands
- Orange slices: slice just before serving to keep them juicy and fresh
- The right ginger ale: really takes the flavor over the top so I splurge on the best I can find
Step by Step Instructions
- Pour the Grenadine:
- Add one tablespoon of grenadine syrup to the bottom of each tall glass The color sets the base for that classic look and adds a sweet kick
- Pour the Ginger Ale:
- Slowly pour one cup of chilled ginger ale into each glass over the grenadine Pour gently to keep all those bubbles and let the pink swirl
- Add the Ice Cream:
- Use an ice cream scoop to carefully add two scoops of vegan vanilla ice cream to each glass Drop them in gently so you keep the soda fizz and make pretty layers
- Garnish and Serve:
- Top each float with a maraschino cherry and a fresh slice of orange if you want for extra color and a hit of fruit Serve straightaway with a straw and long spoon for maximum fun
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My favorite part is watching the ice cream melt into the soda making those creamy fizzy swirls My niece always giggles as the float gets super pink and bubbly
Storage Tips
This vegan Shirley Temple float is best served right away If you want to prep ahead you can pre slice the oranges and keep the ginger ale chilled but do not assemble until everyone is ready to enjoy Even a few minutes sitting out and the fizz and ice cream magic are lost
Ingredient Substitutions
Change up the vibe with sparkling ginger beer if you like it more spicy sub in raspberry syrup if you want extra berry zip or swap vanilla for coconut or even cherry vegan ice cream The garnish can be any fresh fruit you love or what you have on hand
Serving Suggestions
Set up a float bar for parties so everyone can build their own Mix and match ice cream flavors and toppings like fresh berries a splash of lemon or even vegan whipped cream This makes a memorable non alcoholic drink at birthdays showers or summer cookouts
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Nostalgic Roots
The Shirley Temple has long been a favorite for kids who want to sip something fancy and pink This vegan version nods to soda fountain classics while welcoming folks who avoid dairy or animal products My grandmother always kept ginger ale in the fridge just for these floats
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute ginger ale with ginger beer?
Yes, swapping ginger ale with ginger beer will create a bolder, spicier float. Choose a non-alcoholic ginger beer for best results.
- → Are all maraschino cherries vegan?
Not all are vegan—some use dyes or processing agents from animal sources. Check the label or look for vegan-certified brands.
- → What other vegan ice cream flavors work well?
Coconut, cherry, or even chocolate vegan ice cream make delicious flavor variations for this float.
- → How can I make this treat lower in sugar?
Try using diet ginger ale and reducing the amount of grenadine syrup to cut down on sweetness without sacrificing flavor.
- → What tools are recommended for preparing this float?
Tall glasses, an ice cream scoop, long spoons, and straws make assembling and enjoying the float easy and fun.
- → Is this float suitable for nut or soy allergies?
Use nut- and soy-free vegan ice cream to ensure the float meets your allergen needs. Always check the ingredient labels.