A Shirley Temple drink is a timeless, bubbly mocktail loved for its bright cherry flavor, fizzy texture, and beautiful ruby-red color. This classic non-alcoholic beverage combines grenadine syrup with lemon-lime soda or ginger ale and is traditionally topped with maraschino cherries. It’s refreshing, easy to make in minutes, and perfect for parties, holidays, summer afternoons, or family dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Shirley Temple Drink
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Kid-friendly and alcohol-free
- Requires only a few simple ingredients
- Perfect for celebrations and gatherings
- Customizable with ginger ale, Sprite, or lime juice
- Beautiful vibrant color with classic cherry garnish
What Is a Shirley Temple?
The Shirley Temple is one of the most famous mocktails ever created. Traditionally, it’s made with ginger ale or lemon-lime soda, grenadine syrup, and maraschino cherries. Some modern versions also include fresh lime juice for a slightly tangy flavor.
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Ingredients
For 1 Serving
- 1 cup ice cubes
- 6 ounces ginger ale or lemon-lime soda
- 1 to 1½ tablespoons grenadine syrup
- 1–2 maraschino cherries
- ½ teaspoon fresh lime juice (optional)
Kitchen Tools Needed
- Tall serving glass
- Spoon or straw for stirring
- Measuring spoon
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Fill the Glass with Ice
Fill a tall glass almost to the top with ice cubes. Chilled ingredients work best for an extra refreshing drink.
Step 2: Add the Grenadine
Pour the grenadine syrup over the ice. This creates the signature red color and sweet cherry flavor.
Step 3: Pour in the Soda
Slowly add the ginger ale or lemon-lime soda. Pour gently to keep the drink fizzy and bubbly.
Step 4: Stir Lightly
Use a spoon or straw to gently mix the drink until the color becomes evenly pink-red.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Top with maraschino cherries and add a lime wedge if desired. Serve immediately while cold and fizzy.
Tips for the Best Shirley Temple
- Use chilled soda for maximum fizz
- Add extra cherry juice for a richer flavor
- Ginger ale gives a classic taste, while Sprite makes it sweeter
- Fresh lime juice balances the sweetness nicely
- Serve immediately to maintain carbonation
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Fun Variations
Cherry Lime Shirley Temple
Add extra lime juice and a splash of cherry syrup for a tangier drink.
Orange Shirley Temple
Mix in a little orange juice for a citrusy twist.
Frozen Shirley Temple
Blend the ingredients with crushed ice for a slushy-style mocktail.
What to Serve with Shirley Temple Drinks
This mocktail pairs wonderfully with:
- Burgers and fries
- Pizza
- Party appetizers
- BBQ meals
- Birthday cakes and cupcakes
- Movie night snacks
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Storage Tips
A Shirley Temple is best enjoyed fresh. If needed, you can mix the grenadine and lime juice ahead of time, but add the soda just before serving to keep it fizzy.
Nutritional Information
Approximate nutrition per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 140–170 |
| Carbohydrates | 35–41g |
| Sugar | 32–39g |
| Fat | 0g |
| Protein | 0g |
| Sodium | 35–50mg |
Nutritional values vary depending on the soda and grenadine used.

