Easy Shirley Temple Recipe

The Shirley Temple is a refreshing and classic non-alcoholic drink that is perfect for all ages. Made with lemon-lime soda, ginger ale, and a splash of grenadine, this sweet and fizzy beverage is both simple and delicious. Garnished with a maraschino cherry, it is a delightful treat for parties, special occasions, or just a fun drink at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Non-Alcoholic & Kid-Friendly: A great option for family gatherings or celebrations.
• Quick & Easy to Make: Requires only a few ingredients and comes together in minutes.
• Refreshing & Fizzy: The perfect balance of sweetness and citrus flavors.
• Customizable: Can be made with different sodas or garnishes for a unique twist.
• Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant red hue and cherry garnish make it visually appealing.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Lemon-lime soda (Sprite or 7UP)
• Ginger ale
• Grenadine syrup
• Ice cubes
• Maraschino cherry (for garnish)
• Lime wedge (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Fill the Glass

1. Add ice cubes to a tall glass.

Mix the Drink

2. Pour in the lemon-lime soda and ginger ale.
3. Add grenadine syrup and stir gently to mix.

Garnish & Serve

4. Top with a maraschino cherry and a lime wedge for extra freshness.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 1 drink
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes

Variations

• Roy Rogers: Swap the lemon-lime soda and ginger ale for cola to create a darker, richer version.
• Extra Citrus: Add a squeeze of fresh lime or orange juice for a tangy twist.
• Sparkling Water Version: Replace soda with club soda for a less sweet and more refreshing version.
• Frozen Shirley Temple: Blend the ingredients with ice for a slushy-style treat.
• Alcoholic Version: Add vodka or rum for an adult-friendly cocktail.

Storage/Reheating

• This drink is best enjoyed fresh.
• If making for a party, mix the soda and ginger ale in a pitcher and add grenadine when serving.
• Avoid storing mixed soda-based drinks, as they lose their carbonation quickly.

FAQs

What is a Shirley Temple drink?

A Shirley Temple is a non-alcoholic cocktail made with soda, grenadine, and a cherry garnish.

Why is it called a Shirley Temple?

The drink was named after the famous child actress Shirley Temple, who was often served this beverage at Hollywood events.

Can I use only one type of soda?

Yes, you can use just lemon-lime soda or just ginger ale, but the combination adds more depth of flavor.

Is grenadine alcoholic?

No, grenadine is a non-alcoholic syrup made from pomegranate juice and sugar.

What other garnishes can I use?

You can add orange slices, extra cherries, or a sugared rim for a decorative touch.

Can I make this drink less sweet?

Yes, use club soda instead of soda or reduce the amount of grenadine.

What’s the best way to serve a Shirley Temple for a party?

Serve in a pitcher with ice on the side and let guests pour their own drinks, adding grenadine and cherries as desired.

Can I make a diet-friendly version?

Use diet soda or a sugar-free grenadine alternative.

What’s the difference between a Shirley Temple and a Roy Rogers?

A Shirley Temple uses lemon-lime soda and ginger ale, while a Roy Rogers is made with cola and grenadine.

Can I make a large batch in advance?

You can mix the soda and ginger ale ahead of time, but add grenadine and garnishes right before serving to keep it fresh.

Conclusion

The Shirley Temple is a timeless, refreshing, and easy-to-make drink that’s perfect for all occasions. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating with kids, or just looking for a fun non-alcoholic option, this fizzy and sweet beverage is always a hit. With simple ingredients and endless variations, you can customize it to suit any taste.