Save It A playful, refreshing soda float featuring vibrant cherry syrup and fresh fruit, perfect for an eye-catching treat that tastes as fun as it looks.
The first time I made these fruit soda floats was for a backyard party and they stole the show. Kids and adults alike loved the vivid colors and fizzy, sweet taste.
Ingredients
- Cherry Syrup: 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries (pitted), 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup water, 1 tsp lemon juice
- Floats: 4 cups lemon-lime soda (or club soda for less sweetness), 8 scoops vanilla ice cream, 1/2 cup fresh cherries (for garnish), 1/2 cup mixed berries (optional, for color), whipped cream (for topping, optional), maraschino cherries (for decoration)
Instructions
- Prepare Cherry Syrup:
- Combine cherries, sugar and water in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until cherries are soft and mixture thickens (about 8-10 minutes). Mash gently, strain syrup through a fine sieve, pressing to extract liquid. Stir in lemon juice. Cool completely.
- Assemble Floats:
- Drizzle 2 tablespoons syrup into each tall glass. Add fresh cherries and mixed berries if desired.
- Add Ice Cream:
- Carefully add 2 scoops vanilla ice cream to each glass.
- Pour Soda:
- Slowly pour 1 cup lemon-lime soda over ice cream and syrup. Let foam rise.
- Toppings:
- Top with whipped cream and a maraschino cherry. Add extra syrup for vivid look.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately with straw and spoon.
Save It My kids always ask for these floats when summer begins, and it has quickly become our go-to after gardening together on hot afternoons.
Required Tools
Saucepan, fine mesh sieve, tall glasses, ice cream scoop, spoons and straws are all you need.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy in ice cream and whipped cream. Maraschino cherries may contain sulfites. Use plant-based alternatives for vegan and dairy-free versions.
Nutritional Information
Each serving: 290 calories, 7 g total fat, 56 g carbohydrates, 2 g protein.
Save It Brighten your celebrations with these floats and enjoy the fizz and fruity sweetness they bring to the table.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → How do I make the cherry syrup?
Simmer pitted cherries with sugar and water until soft and thickened, then mash and strain the mixture for a smooth syrup. Finish with lemon juice to brighten the flavor.
- → Can I use other fruits instead of cherries?
Yes, raspberry or strawberry syrups can be substituted to create different colors and flavors, adding a personal touch to the floats.
- → What soda works best for these floats?
Lemon-lime soda brings a sweet and fizzy balance, but club soda can be used for a lighter, less sweet version.
- → Is there a dairy-free alternative?
Plant-based ice creams and whipped toppings work well as substitutes for a vegan-friendly option without sacrificing creaminess.
- → How can I enhance the cherry flavor?
Using black cherries or adding a splash of cherry liqueur (for adults) intensifies the cherry notes and adds complexity.