Maraschino Cherry Float

Looking for a drink that combines the charm of a soda fountain classic with the sophistication of a cocktail?

Enter the Maraschino Cherry Float, the ultimate crowd-pleaser for everything from Valentine’s Day dates to baby showers and even low-key girls’ nights.

Imagine this: cherry liqueur and grenadine mingle with creamy vanilla ice cream, topped with fizzy soda and finished with a dollop of whipped cream.

It’s sweet, indulgent, and guaranteed to make you feel fancy — even if you’re in pajamas.

What makes this dessert cocktail so lovable?

It’s nostalgic yet modern, rich yet refreshing. Plus, it’s super easy to make! Whether you’re celebrating or just need a pick-me-up, this recipe is here to save the day.

Now, let’s dive in!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this irresistible treat:

• 2 oz cherry liqueur
• 1 oz grenadine syrup
• 2 scoops of vanilla ice cream
• 1/2 cup soda water or lemon-lime soda (your call!)
• Whipped cream (for topping)
• Maraschino cherries (for garnish)
• Optional: chocolate shavings or sprinkles for extra flair

Ingredient Breakdown

Cherry Liqueur: The star of the show! This brings a deep, sweet cherry flavor with just the right hint of booziness. Luxardo or Heering are great choices, but feel free to use your favorite.

Grenadine Syrup: Not just for Shirley Temples! Grenadine gives the drink its gorgeous ruby hue and enhances the fruity sweetness. You can use store-bought or make your own by boiling pomegranate juice with sugar.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, dreamy base that turns this cocktail into dessert heaven. Premium ice cream works best because it’s rich and dense.

Soda Water or Lemon-Lime Soda: Soda water keeps things light and fizzy, while lemon-lime soda adds extra sweetness and citrus notes. Pick your mood!

Whipped Cream: Is it even a float without a cloud of whipped cream? Go homemade if you’re feeling ambitious, but the canned stuff works fine too.

Maraschino Cherries: These glossy red beauties are more than just garnish — they’re the cherry on top (literally).

How to Make A Maraschino Cherry Float

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

First things first, round up everything you need. This is a no-fuss recipe, but having everything prepped will make you feel like a pro mixologist.

Step 2: Chill Your Glass

Float magic starts with a chilled glass. Pop your glassware in the freezer for about 10 minutes while you prep. This keeps your drink cold and your ice cream from melting too fast.

Step 3: Add the Liquids

Pour the cherry liqueur and grenadine into your chilled glass. Stir gently to combine. Already, you’ll see that vibrant red base come to life!

Step 4: Scoop in the Ice Cream

Drop in two generous scoops of vanilla ice cream. Be gentle, so it floats nicely atop the liquid. It’s okay if some melts into the drink — that’s part of the charm.

Step 5: Top with Soda

Pour soda water (or lemon-lime soda) over the ice cream, letting it fizz and bubble to perfection. Pour slowly to avoid an overflow; you want a pretty, frothy head, not a sticky countertop disaster.

Step 6: Garnish Like a Pro

Now for the finishing touches. Crown your float with a generous swirl of whipped cream, a maraschino cherry, and maybe even a sprinkle of chocolate shavings or rainbow sprinkles. Presentation matters!

Step 7: Serve Immediately

This beauty waits for no one! Serve your Maraschino Cherry Float immediately with a long spoon and a straw. Sip, scoop, and savor every creamy, fizzy bite.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Maraschino Cherry Float

• Ice Cream Quality Matters: Splurge on premium ice cream for a creamier, more luxurious texture. Cheap ice cream melts too quickly and waters down the flavor.
• Chill Everything: Keep your liqueur, soda, and even your serving spoons cold to maintain that perfect temperature.
• Customize Your Float: Feeling adventurous? Swap the cherry liqueur for amaretto or add a splash of dark rum for extra depth.
• Mocktail Version: Skip the cherry liqueur and use cherry syrup or extra grenadine for a booze-free treat that kids and non-drinkers will adore.

Pairing Suggestions

The Maraschino Cherry Float is a star on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with light snacks or desserts.

Try it alongside these snacks for best results:

• Chocolate-dipped strawberries
• Almond biscotti
• A plate of fresh fruit

Maraschino Cherry Float Recipe

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