There’s something nostalgic and special about The classic Shirley Temple. Whether you first sipped it as a child at a family restaurant or served it to your kids as a sweet treat, this bubbly pink drink holds a cherished spot in our hearts—and on our menus.
Refreshing, non-alcoholic, and effortlessly elegant, it’s the ultimate mocktail that never goes out of style. If you’re looking to recreate that magic at home, this guide gives you everything you need to know—from ingredients to variations to fun ways to serve it.
Table of Contents
🥤 What Is The Classic Shirley Temple?
The classic Shirley Temple is a non-alcoholic mixed drink made with:
- Lemon-lime soda or ginger ale
- Grenadine syrup
- A maraschino cherry on top
Originally created in the 1930s for the child star Shirley Temple herself, this drink has since become a staple at family restaurants, weddings, and parties alike.
🛒 Ingredients You Need
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Lemon-lime soda OR ginger ale | 8 oz | Fizzy base for the drink |
| Grenadine syrup | 1–2 tbsp | Gives the drink its iconic red color and sweetness |
| Maraschino cherries | 1–2 cherries | Signature garnish |
| Ice | As needed | Keeps it chilled |
| Optional: Orange slice | For garnish | Adds a pop of citrus |
🍒 Pro tip: Use chilled soda to keep the drink crisp without watering it down too quickly.
🍹 How to Make The Classic Shirley Temple
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Fill a glass with ice – Use a tall glass for the best presentation.
- Pour in 8 oz of lemon-lime soda (or ginger ale if you prefer a spicier kick).
- Add grenadine – Start with 1 tablespoon, then adjust to your taste.
- Stir gently – Just enough to mix but not lose all the fizz.
- Top with a maraschino cherry – Or two! It’s not a Shirley Temple without it.
- Garnish with an orange slice – Totally optional but adds color and citrus aroma.
✨ Why You’ll Love This Drink
- Kid-friendly: Zero alcohol, 100% fun.
- Customizable: Swap sodas, add fresh fruit, or rim the glass with sugar.
- Perfect for parties: Make a big batch and serve it in a punch bowl.
- Nostalgic: It brings back memories—and creates new ones.
🍒 Variations on the Classic Shirley Temple
Looking to put your own spin on this timeless drink? Try one of these fun twists:
1. Shirley Temple Punch (Party Style)
- Mix 2 liters lemon-lime soda, 1 cup grenadine, and 1 cup orange juice in a punch bowl.
- Add orange slices, cherries, and ice.
2. Frozen Shirley Temple
- Blend lemon-lime soda, grenadine, and ice until slushy.
- Serve with a straw and a cherry on top.
3. Dirty Shirley (Adults Only)
- Add 1.5 oz vodka to your classic Shirley Temple.
- Garnish and serve like usual.
🍹 Tip: You can also try a splash of lime juice or cranberry juice to balance the sweetness.
📦 Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
- Make fresh: It’s best served right after mixing to keep that fizz.
- Grenadine shelf life: Store-bought grenadine lasts months in the fridge.
- Batch tips: Add soda last if prepping ahead to avoid going flat.
🧑🍳 Quick Recipe Card
The Classic Shirley Temple
Prep time: 2 minutes
Total time: 2 minutes
Servings: 1
Ingredients:
- 8 oz lemon-lime soda or ginger ale
- 1–2 tbsp grenadine
- 1–2 maraschino cherries
- Ice
- Optional: orange slice for garnish
Instructions:
- Fill a tall glass with ice.
- Pour in soda, followed by grenadine.
- Stir gently.
- Garnish with a cherry and orange slice. Serve immediately.
❓ FAQ: The Classic Shirley Temple
Is grenadine alcoholic?
No. It’s a non-alcoholic syrup made from pomegranate juice and sugar.
Can I make it less sweet?
Yes. Use less grenadine or try a splash of lime juice to cut the sweetness.
What soda is best for Shirley Temples?
Lemon-lime soda is most common, but ginger ale or club soda work great too.
Are there sugar-free versions?
Yes! Use sugar-free soda and a low-sugar grenadine alternative.
💬 Final Sip
Whether you’re introducing your kids to the magic of a classic Shirley Temple or reliving a bit of your own childhood, this drink brings pure, fizzy joy to the table. It’s the perfect mix of old-school charm and modern-day refreshment.
So go ahead—grab a glass, pop in a cherry, and sip your way back to simpler times.