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Shirley TempleCocktail recipe
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The Shirley Temple is a bright, bubbly mocktail built in the highball tradition: a tall, refreshing mix of soda and syrup with a citrus lift. It’s widely associated with mid‑20th‑century American soda fountains and restaurant bars, where non-alcoholic “grown-up” drinks became a staple for younger guests and anyone skipping spirits. While its exact origin story varies, you’ll find it endures because it feels celebratory without trying too hard.
On the palate, ginger ale brings a crisp, lightly spicy fizz that sets the drink’s lively tone. Grenadine adds a sweet pomegranate-like richness and that signature rosy hue, while lemon juice cuts straight through with clean tartness. Together, the lemon’s sharp edge keeps the grenadine from becoming cloying, and the ginger ale’s sparkle ties the sweet-and-sour balance into an easy, sip-friendly finish.
Serve it ice-cold in a highball when you want something festive, familiar, and crowd-pleasing. You’ll reach for it at brunches, family gatherings, or as a non-alcoholic option at parties where you still want a drink that looks the part and stays refreshing from first sip to last.
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Cocktail Colin says:
Ginger ale leads with bright fizz and gentle spice, while grenadine brings a vivid pomegranate-like sweetness that’s sharpened by a quick snap of lemon juice. The lemon’s acidity keeps the grenadine from turning cloying, and the ginger spice adds structure to the soda sweetness—ideal for anyone wanting an easy, refreshing, non-alcoholic highball.
Method
How to make a Shirley Temple
- Lemon juice 7.5ml, Ginger ale Top up, Grenadine 7.5ml
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- Pour all ingredients into a highball glass and stir gently
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- Garnish with a lemon slice and a maraschino cherry and serve
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Find out more- Chill the highball glass in the freezer for 10 minutes before mixing the drink to ensure it's served as cold as possible.
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FAQ's
What is the origin of the Shirley Temple cocktail?
The Shirley Temple cocktail is named after the famous child actress Shirley Temple. It is believed to have been created during the 1930s as a non-alcoholic drink for her to enjoy at Hollywood parties. The exact origin of the cocktail is somewhat disputed, with multiple restaurants claiming to have invented it.
Can the Shirley Temple cocktail be made with alcohol?
Yes, while the classic Shirley Temple cocktail is non-alcoholic, there is an adult version called a 'Dirty Shirley' which adds vodka or a similar spirit to the traditional recipe. This turns it into a spirited cocktail while maintaining the original's sweet and bubbly characteristics.
What occasions are best for serving Shirley Temple cocktails?
Shirley Temple cocktails are perfect for family gatherings, children’s parties, or any occasion where guests might prefer or require non-alcoholic beverages. They offer a fun and festive option that all ages can enjoy.
Are there variations to the Shirley Temple recipe?
Yes, variations to the Shirley Temple recipe can include using different sodas such as lemon-lime soda or club soda instead of ginger ale for a slightly different taste. Some people also add orange juice or switch the lemon juice for lime juice for a citrusy twist. The basic elements of grenadine and a bubbly component, however, remain consistent in most variations.
How do you properly garnish a Shirley Temple?
A traditional Shirley Temple is garnished with a maraschino cherry and a slice of lemon or lime on the rim of the glass. For a more festive look, you can add an orange slice or a cocktail umbrella. The key is to keep it fun and colorful, appealing to its status as a beloved drink for all ages.
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