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.
When I first tested these fruit soda floats, the lively cherry syrup and bursting berries transformed a plain dessert into a vibrant celebration. The cherry-coded look brought smiles all around and everyone, kids and grownups, reached for seconds.
Ingredients
- Fresh or frozen cherries: Pitted
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the syrup
- Water: For simmering syrup
- Lemon juice: Brightens flavor
- Lemon-lime soda: Or club soda for less sweetness
- Vanilla ice cream: For creamy floats
- Fresh cherries: For garnish
- Mixed berries: Optional, adds color
- Whipped cream: Optional topping
- Maraschino cherries: Decoration
Instructions
- Prepare the cherry syrup:
- Combine cherries, sugar, and water in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until cherries soften and the mixture thickens (about 8 minutes). Mash gently, then strain through a fine sieve, pressing for maximum liquid. Stir in lemon juice and let cool completely.
- Drizzle and layer fruit:
- Add 2 tablespoons of cherry syrup into each tall glass, followed by fresh cherries and mixed berries if desired.
- Add ice cream:
- Place 2 scoops of vanilla ice cream in each glass.
- Pour soda:
- Slowly pour 1 cup of lemon-lime soda over ice cream and syrup, letting foam rise.
- Add toppings:
- Top with whipped cream and a maraschino cherry. Add extra syrup for vivid color.
- Serve:
- Enjoy immediately with a straw and spoon.
Save It Every summer, my family looks forward to mixing up soda floats together in tall glasses, each choosing their favorite fruits for the top. It has become our cheerful tradition for hot afternoons and birthday parties.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these floats with fruity desserts, lemon bars, or enjoy as a sweet finish to any cookout. For extra fun, let everyone build their own float with assorted fruits and syrups.
Flavor Variations
Try raspberry or strawberry syrup in place of cherry for a different aesthetic. Experiment with club soda for less sweetness or add a splash of cherry liqueur for adults only.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains dairy in the ice cream and whipped cream and may include sulfites from maraschino cherries. For allergen-free floats, opt for plant-based dairy alternatives and always review ingredients carefully.
Save It Finish each float with a swirl of whipped cream and cherries for maximum cheer. Enjoy these playful treats fresh for best flavor and fizz.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I make the cherry syrup?
Simmer fresh or frozen cherries with sugar and water until softened and thickened, then strain the mixture and stir in lemon juice for brightness.
- → Can I use a different soda for the floats?
Yes, lemon-lime soda provides sweetness and fizz, but club soda can be used for a lighter, less sweet version.
- → What toppings enhance the floats?
Toppings like whipped cream, fresh cherries, mixed berries, and maraschino cherries add richness, color, and visual appeal.
- → Is there a vegan alternative?
Use dairy-free or plant-based ice cream and whipped cream to create a vegan-friendly version without compromising flavor.
- → How long does preparation take?
Preparing the cherry syrup and assembling the floats together takes approximately 20 minutes total.