There’s something timeless about a Shirley Temple. Bright, bubbly, and crowned with a cherry, it’s the kind of drink that instantly makes a child feel special and an occasion feel festive – whether you’re ordering it at a restaurant or mixing one up at home. If you’re looking for a classic Shirley Temple drink recipe that’s easy, refreshing and perfect for all ages, you’re in the right place. Known for its pretty colours, fizzy sweetness, and signature cherry garnish, the Shirley Temple is one of the most popular non-alcoholic drinks ever made. Whether you’re hosting a party, making something special for the kids at a family gathering, or just craving a fun mocktail at home, this timeless favourite always delivers.
It would seem that the Shirley Temple drink is named after Shirley Temple, the iconic child star known for her bright personality, signature curls, and famous tap-dancing roles in classic Hollywood films. Shirley is a particular favourite in our house, where at any given moment my own bright-eyed child may come tap dancing through the kitchen. I did a little research into the origins of the Shirley Temple drink, and while it would seem that the exact story is hotly debated, the idea was simple: create a fun, alcohol-free drink that felt just as special as the cocktails adults were enjoying. That sense of occasion is still part of its charm today. Served in a fancy glass with a cherry on top, a Shirley Temple gives kids their own “grown-up” moment – with or without a side of tap dancing. Whether they’re celebrating something big or just joining in at the table, this pretty drink has a way of making any kid feel included, a little glamorous, and part of the fun.
What goes in a Shirley Temple drink?
A Shirley Temple keeps things refreshingly simple, combining just a few basic ingredients that are easy to keep on hand.
- Grenadine Syrup: This sweet-tart syrup is traditionally made from pomegranate juice. Look for a brand that contains real pomegranate for better flavour.
- Orange Juice: Some recipes for Shirley Temple drinks involve little more than a glass of soda with a splash of grenadine. This makes a cloyingly sweet drink with little dimension. A splash of orange juice adds a bright, citrusy lift to a Shirley Temple, balancing the sweetness of the soda and grenadine with a touch of fresh acidity.
- Ginger Ale: Traditionally, a Shirley Temple is made with ginger ale, which gives it a subtle spice and more balanced sweetness. Some recipes swap in lemon-lime soda for a sweeter flavour. Which soda you use is a matter of personal preference. Use ginger ale for a more complex, balanced and zingy drink – or reach for lemon-lime soda for a crisp, candy-like finish.
- Maraschino Cherries and Orange Slices: Don’t forget a cherry on top! A maraschino cherry is the finishing touch that gives a Shirley Temple its signature charm – sweet, bright and playful. Adding an orange slice to a Shirley Temple gives it a fresh citrus aroma and a pop of colour that makes the drink feel a little more special and “extra” in the best way.
Looking for other delicious non-alcoholic drink ideas?
Shirley Temples are best enjoyed together!
Shirley Temples are at their best when shared, bringing a playful and fun element to any gathering. While this recipe makes one drink, its quick and simple preparation means it’s easy to scale up and make enough for a crowd. For the most eye-catching presentation, prepare each drink in its own glass – the grenadine settles beautifully beneath the orange juice and ginger ale, creating that signature layered effect that makes every drink feel a little extra special.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
SERVING SUGGESTIONSA Shirley Temple is a perfect way to make younger guests feel included when adults are enjoying something more elevated, whether it’s cocktails by the lake, an Après-Ski gathering, or a relaxed evening celebration. With its pretty colours, fizzy sweetness, and playful garnish, it feels like a special treat rather than just a soft drink, giving kids their own “fancy” beverage to match the occasion. It’s a go-to choice for birthday celebrations, New Year’s Eve festivities and parties of all sorts, where presentation matters just as much as taste. Served in a nice glass with a cherry on top and a slice of orange, it brings a little extra joy and festivity to any table. In terms of what foods a Shirley Temple pairs with, well if you ask any child they will tell you it goes with everything!
A Shirley Temple Black
A Shirley Temple made with alcohol is sometimes called a “Dirty Shirley”, but that name always felt a bit off for a cocktail inspired by a beloved child star. A more fitting name for the mocktail-turned-cocktail is a Shirley Temple Black, using her grown-up, married name to distinguish the grown-up version of the drink from the childhood favourite. To make a Shirley Temple Black, simply add an ounce of vodka to the recipe for a Shirley Temple. The result is a very sweet, but nostalgic cocktail with a grown-up edge. Definitely make it with ginger ale, instead of lemon-lime soda, for a more complex drink. For a movie night gathering featuring a classic black-and-white film or an Oscar viewing party, a tray of Shirley Temple Black cocktails offers a playful, nostalgic nod to Hollywood’s golden era.
How To Make A Classic Shirley Temple Drink
Ingredients
- 1/2 oz grenadine Syrup
- 1 oz orange juice
- 8 oz ginger ale (or lemon-lime soda)
- Maraschino cherries and orange slices for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a tall glass with ice. Add the grenadine syrup, allowing it to settle at the bottom of the glass. Pour the orange juice over the settled grenadine. Pour the ginger ale over top of the orange juice to create a layered drink. Garnish with a cherry and orange slice. Serve with a stir stick or straw for stirring.
Notes
- This recipe makes one drink, but it is easy to double it for two, or to make many Shirley Temples for a crowd. I recommend making each drink individually, instead of as a large batch, for the pretty layered presentation.
- Add 1 ounce of vodka to the orange juice layer to make a Shirley Temple Black Cocktail.
