Spark joy and nostalgia with this classic Shirley Temple Drink, a fizzy, sweet, and brilliantly red non-alcoholic cocktail that’s the hallmark of any celebration. It’s a quick, fun, and festive treat that’s perfect for kids and kids-at-heart, bringing a touch of fancy to any occasion.
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Why You Will Love This Recipe
For me, the appearance of a Shirley Temple drink has always signaled a special occasion. It’s the drink that makes everyone feel included, allowing kids to toast alongside the adults with something just as fun and eye-catching. I love making this recipe because it’s more than just a drink; it’s a sweet, nostalgic experience that evokes happy memories and creates new ones, proving you don’t need a big reason to make an ordinary moment feel celebratory.
Ingredients
- 3 to 5 large square ice cubes
- 1 Tbsp. grenadine (such as Rose’s)
- 1 Tbsp. fresh lime juice (from 1 lime)
- 1 (8-oz.) can lemon-lime soda (such as 7UP)
- 3 whole maraschino cherries
Step-by-step instructions for making the recipe
- Prepare the glass by placing 3 to 5 large square ice cubes into a 16-ounce highball glass.
- Pour the grenadine and fresh lime juice directly over the ice.
- Slowly pour the lemon-lime soda into the glass.
- Do not stir. Allowing the ingredients to mix naturally creates a beautiful gradient effect.
- Garnish the drink by dropping the three maraschino cherries into the glass.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the fizzy, sweet, and tart flavors.
Shirley Temple Drink
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the glass by placing 3 to 5 large square ice cubes into a 16-ounce highball glass.3 to 5 large square ice cubes
- Pour the grenadine and fresh lime juice directly over the ice.1 Tbsp grenadine, 1 Tbsp fresh lime juice
- Slowly pour the lemon-lime soda into the glass.1 can lemon-lime soda
- Do not stir. Allowing the ingredients to mix naturally creates a beautiful gradient effect.
- Garnish the drink by dropping the three maraschino cherries into the glass.3 whole maraschino cherries
- Serve immediately and enjoy the fizzy, sweet, and tart flavors.
Notes
FAQ
What’s the difference between a Shirley Temple and a Roy Rogers?
A Shirley Temple is made with lemon-lime soda and grenadine, while a Roy Rogers is made with cola and grenadine. Both are classic non-alcoholic drinks typically garnished with a maraschino cherry.
Can I make an alcoholic version?
Yes! For an adult version known as a “Dirty Shirley,” simply add 1.5 ounces (one shot) of vodka to the glass along with the other ingredients.
Why shouldn’t I stir the drink?
Not stirring the drink allows the grenadine to slowly mix with the soda, creating a beautiful red-to-clear gradient effect known as a “sunset.” It also helps preserve the carbonation of the soda for a fizzier drink.