The Shirley Temple drink is a timeless classic.
Known for its vibrant red hue and sweet, fizzy flavor, it’s the ultimate non-alcoholic treat.
Originally crafted for the beloved child actress Shirley Temple, this mocktail has been a favorite at parties for decades.
Its simplicity, charm, and universal appeal make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
Whether for a celebration or a quiet evening at home, this drink never fails to impress.
Here’s how to easily make refreshing drink at home!
How to Make a Shirley Temple: At A Glance
- Fill a glass with ice.
- Add 1 ounce of grenadine.
- Pour 4 ounces each of ginger ale and lemon-lime soda.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Garnish with a maraschino cherry and optional mint or citrus.
History and Origin
The Shirley Temple drink traces its origins back to the 1930s, during Hollywood’s golden age.
It was created as a kid-friendly alternative to cocktails for Shirley Temple, the famous child actress.
Shirley often attended glamorous parties where alcohol flowed freely, and this drink offered her something equally festive and special.
While some claim the drink was first made at Chasen’s, a popular restaurant in Beverly Hills, others believe it was invented at the Brown Derby, another Hollywood hotspot.
Over the years, the recipe has seen minor changes, but its core ingredients—grenadine, ginger ale, and maraschino cherries—have remained consistent.
Despite being named after her, Shirley Temple herself admitted she didn’t enjoy the drink and had no involvement in its creation.
In a 1986 interview, she remarked, “I hate them. Too sweet.”
Moreover, she took legal action in 1988 to prevent companies from using her name to market a bottled version of the beverage without her consent.
Regardless, its association with her legacy has made it one of the most recognizable mocktails in the world.
Traditional Ingredients
The Shirley Temple drink relies on a few simple yet flavorful ingredients.
Grenadine Syrup
Grenadine syrup serves as the foundation, providing its signature bright red color and sweet-tart flavor.
Traditionally made from pomegranate juice, grenadine adds a rich, fruity depth that balances perfectly with the fizzy soda.
Modern versions often use artificial flavors, but authentic grenadine still holds the nostalgic charm of the original recipe.
Ginger Ale And Lemon-Lime Soda
For the soda base, ginger ale and lemon-lime soda are the classic options.
Ginger ale adds a subtle, spicy kick, while lemon-lime soda, like Sprite or 7UP, offers a sweeter, citrusy alternative.
Both work well, and the choice depends on personal preference or the desired flavor profile.
Some even mix the two for a bubbly, well-rounded taste.
Maraschino Cherries
Maraschino cherries are the final touch, doubling as both a garnish and a flavor booster.
Their bright red color complements the grenadine, and their sweet, syrupy taste adds a delightful burst of flavor in every sip.
These cherries also elevate the drink’s presentation, making it look as festive as it tastes.
Together, these ingredients create a timeless mocktail that’s simple to prepare yet visually and flavorfully impressive.
Classic Shirley Temple Recipe
Ingredients Needed
- 1 cup ice cubes (small or medium-sized)
- 1 ounce grenadine syrup (about 2 tablespoons)
- 4 ounces ginger ale (½ cup, chilled)
- 4 ounces lemon-lime soda (½ cup, chilled, e.g., Sprite or 7UP)
- 1–2 maraschino cherries (for garnish)
- Optional: Fresh mint leaves or an orange wedge (for garnish)
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare the traditional Shirley Temple drink:
- Fill a glass with ice cubes: Use a tall glass for a classic presentation.
- Add 1 ounce of grenadine: Pour over the ice, allowing its bright red color to settle at the bottom.
- Pour in 4 ounces of ginger ale: Chilled ginger ale adds a subtle, spicy fizz.
- Add 4 ounces of lemon-lime soda: Sprite or 7UP works well, offering a sweet, citrusy balance.
- Stir gently: Combine the ingredients carefully to keep the bubbles intact.
- Garnish: Top with a maraschino cherry and, if desired, a sprig of mint or an orange wedge for extra flair.
Customization Tips
- Adjust sweetness by reducing the grenadine or opting for diet sodas.
- Use grenadine made with real pomegranate juice for a more authentic taste.
- Add more cherries for a fun and flavorful garnish.
Popular Variations
The Shirley Temple drink has inspired a variety of creative twists, making it a versatile favorite for all ages and occasions.
Here are some popular variations to try:
Dirty Shirley
For an adult version of the classic, a Dirty Shirley adds a splash of vodka or rum to the mix.
Simply follow the original recipe, then stir in 1–2 ounces of your preferred spirit.
The grenadine and soda help balance the alcohol, creating a sweet yet sophisticated cocktail perfect for parties or casual evenings.
Shirley Temple Party Punch
When serving a crowd, the Shirley Temple Party Punch is an excellent choice.
This version incorporates orange juice for added flavor and freshness.
Combine grenadine, ginger ale, lemon-lime soda, and orange juice in a large punch bowl.
Use a ratio of 1 part grenadine, 2 parts orange juice, and 4 parts soda for a well-balanced mix.
Add ice and garnish with maraschino cherries and orange slices for a festive touch.
Shirley Temple Float
The Shirley Temple Float transforms the drink into a dessert-like treat.
After mixing the classic drink, top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
The ice cream adds creaminess and a fun twist to the fizzy drink, making it a favorite among kids and adults alike.
Serve it with a spoon and straw for the full experience.
Roy Rogers
The Roy Rogers is a similar mocktail that uses cola instead of ginger ale or lemon-lime soda.
To make it, mix 1 ounce of grenadine with 8 ounces of cola and garnish with a maraschino cherry.
This variation has a richer flavor, thanks to the caramel notes of the cola, and is a popular choice for those who enjoy a less fruity drink.
Serving Suggestions
The Shirley Temple drink shines not just in taste but also in presentation, and choosing the right glassware enhances its visual appeal.
Tall Collins or highball glasses are ideal for serving, as their height showcases the drink’s vibrant red hue and fizzy layers.
For garnishing, the classic choice is a single maraschino cherry, but you can take it further by adding several cherries skewered on a decorative pick.
Citrus slices, such as orange or lime, can be placed on the rim for added color and a hint of zest.
For a fun touch, consider using colorful straws or stir sticks, especially when serving at parties or events.
The Shirley Temple is perfect for a variety of occasions, from kids’ birthday parties to baby showers, family gatherings, or even holiday celebrations.
Its sweet, festive flavor and non-alcoholic nature make it a welcoming choice for guests of all ages.
With a little creativity in presentation, this drink can be as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate.
Nutritional Information
The Shirley Temple drink is a sweet treat, but its classic recipe does come with a notable sugar content.
A single serving made with regular grenadine, ginger ale, and lemon-lime soda contains approximately 150–180 calories, most of which come from the sugar in the sodas and grenadine.
The sugar content can range from 30 to 40 grams per glass, depending on the brands of grenadine and soda used.
For a lower-sugar version, consider using diet ginger ale and diet lemon-lime soda to eliminate the added sugars from the soda.
Additionally, you can opt for homemade grenadine made from unsweetened pomegranate juice and a sugar substitute, such as stevia or monk fruit.
This simple adjustment significantly reduces the overall sugar content while preserving the drink’s signature sweetness and vibrant color.
Conclusion
The Shirley Temple is more than a drink; it’s a symbol of timeless charm and family-friendly fun.
Its sweet, fizzy flavor and vibrant color make it a favorite for kids, while its versatility appeals to all ages.
Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try creative variations, it’s the perfect addition to any celebration.
Serve it at your next event and enjoy the smiles it brings to your guests!
FAQs
Is the Shirley Temple drink suitable for children?
Yes, the Shirley Temple is a non-alcoholic mocktail designed to be kid-friendly.
Its sweet, fizzy flavor and fun presentation make it a favorite among children.
How should grenadine be stored?
Grenadine should be stored in the refrigerator after opening.
When refrigerated, it typically lasts about 3–4 months, but always check the label for specific storage recommendations.
What are some alternative garnishes for the Shirley Temple?
While maraschino cherries are traditional, you can also use orange slices, lime wedges, fresh mint leaves, or even a colorful cocktail umbrella for a fun twist.
Can I make a Shirley Temple less sweet?
Yes, you can adjust the sweetness by reducing the amount of grenadine or using diet sodas.
Alternatively, homemade grenadine with less sugar can help balance the flavor.
What type of soda is best for a Shirley Temple?
Ginger ale and lemon-lime soda (such as Sprite or 7UP) are the most common choices.
You can use either or a combination of both, depending on your taste preference.
Can I make the Shirley Temple in advance?
It’s best to prepare Shirley Temples just before serving to preserve the fizz.
However, you can pre-mix the grenadine and soda in a large pitcher and add ice and garnishes right before serving.
