Looking for a drink that’s fun, festive, and a total crowd-pleaser? Shirley Temple Punch is everything you love about the classic mocktail—but bigger, bolder, and made to share. Whether you’re hosting a party, baby shower, brunch, or holiday gathering, this non-alcoholic punch is a sweet and sparkling hit that people of all ages can enjoy.
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🥤 What Is Shirley Temple Punch?
If you grew up ordering Shirley Temples at restaurants, you already know the magic: fizzy soda, a splash of sweet grenadine, and a maraschino cherry on top. Shirley Temple Punch takes that nostalgic favorite and turns it into a party-sized version—perfect for large gatherings or just making any night feel a little more special.
It’s bright, bubbly, and totally refreshing. Plus, it’s so simple to make that you won’t even break a sweat.
🧺 Ingredients for Shirley Temple Punch
You only need a handful of ingredients to bring this fruity fizz to life:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Lemon-lime soda (Sprite/7Up) | 2 liters |
| Ginger ale | 1 liter |
| Grenadine | ½ cup (adjust to taste) |
| Orange juice (optional) | 1 cup |
| Maraschino cherries | 1 jar (with juice) |
| Fresh orange or lime slices | For garnish |
| Ice | As needed |
💡 Tip: Want it a little less sweet? Use a splash of club soda to balance out the flavor.
🧃 How to Make Shirley Temple Punch
Making this punch couldn’t be easier—you’re basically just pouring and stirring!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Chill Your Ingredients: For best results, refrigerate your sodas, juice, and grenadine before making the punch.
- In a Large Punch Bowl or Pitcher:
- Pour in lemon-lime soda, ginger ale, and orange juice (if using).
- Add grenadine slowly to create that signature pink color.
- Stir gently to combine—don’t flatten the bubbles!
- Add Cherries + Juice:
- Drop in a few spoonfuls of maraschino cherries with some of the syrupy juice for extra sweetness and color.
- Garnish & Serve:
- Add ice to the bowl right before serving.
- Float fresh orange and lime slices on top for a festive look.
- Serve in Glasses:
- Top each glass with a cherry and a citrus slice for that classic Shirley Temple vibe.
🎉 When to Serve Shirley Temple Punch
This fun, fizzy drink is perfect for any occasion where you want to serve something that feels special without alcohol:
- Baby showers
- Kids’ birthday parties
- Summer cookouts
- Bridal showers
- New Year’s Eve celebrations
- Sunday brunches
- Valentine’s Day (hello, pink punch!)
It’s also a great alternative at adult events for guests who aren’t drinking but still want something fun in their cup.
🍸 Want to Make It Boozy?
You can easily give your Shirley Temple Punch a grown-up twist by adding:
- Vodka
- Champagne or prosecco
- Rum or tequila for a tropical flair
Just make sure to label it clearly so everyone knows which punch is alcohol-free!
🧊 Tips for Perfect Shirley Temple Punch Every Time
- Don’t add ice too early: Add just before serving to keep the punch from getting watered down.
- Use chilled ingredients: This helps keep your punch cold without relying solely on ice.
- Adjust the sweetness: Grenadine is very sweet—start with less and taste as you go.
- Make it pretty: Garnishes like fruit slices and colorful straws make this punch even more party-ready.
- Use a clear bowl or dispenser: Let that gorgeous pink hue shine!
💬 Frequently Asked Questions About Shirley Temple Punch
Can I make Shirley Temple Punch ahead of time?
You can mix the grenadine, orange juice, and cherries a few hours ahead and refrigerate. Add sodas and ice just before serving to preserve the fizz.
What is grenadine made of?
Traditional grenadine is a sweet, red syrup made from pomegranate juice and sugar. You can find it near the cocktail mixers at most grocery stores.
Can I use diet soda?
Absolutely! Diet versions of lemon-lime soda and ginger ale work just fine and make the drink lower in sugar.
What can I use instead of grenadine?
Try pomegranate juice with a little sugar or cherry juice as a substitute. Just adjust to taste!
Can I serve this from a drink dispenser?
Yes! Shirley Temple Punch looks amazing in a glass drink dispenser—just be sure to add ice to cups instead of the dispenser to avoid dilution.
❤️ Why Everyone Loves Shirley Temple Punch
- No alcohol, no problem—still festive and fun
- So easy, even the kids can help make it
- Budget-friendly but feels fancy
- Totally customizable to suit your taste
- That signature pink glow = instant party mood
Whether you’re five or fifty, there’s just something joyful about this drink. It’s bubbly, sweet, and packed with good vibes.