Paul Kushner
Shirley Temple rules the thrilling world of non-alcoholic beverages.The sweet, refreshing taste and vibrant color of this classic drink make it a timeless favorite. As a bartender, I’ve mixed many Shirley Temples and seen them make people smile, making them the perfect drink for any occasion. Find out how to make this legendary drink at home with these insider hints.
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Tasting Notes
The Shirley Temple blends ginger ale’s crisp, zesty aromas with grenadine’s sweet, fruity notes. This delightful drink dances on the palate with a subtle effervescence, making every sip a celebration. Cherry garnish lends elegance and a chewy, sweet finish to this favorite drink.
Equipment and Glassware
Ingredients
- Ginger ale or lemon-lime soda
- Homemade grenadine or store-bought grenadine syrup
- Lime juice
- Maraschino cherries for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a tall glass with ice cubes.
- Pour in the ginger ale or lemon-lime soda until the glass is about 3/4 full.
- Add a splash of grenadine syrup to the glass. The amount of grenadine you add will depend on your personal preference, but a good rule of thumb is about 1-2 tablespoons.
- Squeeze in some lime juice to taste. Stir the drink to combine all the ingredients.
- Garnish with a few maraschino cherries and a slice of lime.
Pro Tips
- Make a Shirley Temple sparkling by adding chilled ginger ale right before serving.
- Adjust grenadine to taste. Some like sweet drinks, while others like ginger ale’s sharpness.
- High-quality grenadine tastes best. It makes a huge difference!
When to Serve
Shirley Temples are versatile and suitable for any occasion. Serve it at birthday parties, family gatherings, or on days when it’s hot. It’s also popular with non-drinkers who want a classy drink.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
Use high-quality, subtle-flavored liquors to add spirit to the Shirley Temple. Absolut Vodka has a clear taste, Bacardi White Rum is smooth and sweet, and Bombay Sapphire Gin has botanicals. These selections preserve the drink’s appeal, creating a delicious adult version of this famous non-alcoholic beverage.
Similar Cocktails
If you love the Shirley Temple, explore these similar non-alcoholic cocktails for more delightful experiences:
- Roy Rogers: Swap ginger ale for cola and follow the same steps.
- Arnold Palmer: A refreshing blend of iced tea and lemonade.
- Fruit Punch: Mix various fruit juices with a splash of grenadine for a tropical treat.
- Virgin Mojito: Combine lime juice, mint, sugar, and soda water for a zesty, refreshing drink.
- Sparkling Apple Cider: For a fall-inspired twist, replace ginger ale with sparkling apple cider and add a cinnamon stick garnish.
Ingredients
- Ginger ale or lemon-lime soda
- Homemade grenadine or store-bought grenadine syrup
- Lime juice
- Maraschino cherries for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a tall glass with ice cubes.
- Pour in the ginger ale or lemon-lime soda until the glass is about 3/4 full.
- Add a splash of grenadine syrup to the glass. The amount of grenadine you add will depend on your personal preference, but a good rule of thumb is about 1-2 tablespoons.
- Squeeze in some lime juice to taste. Stir the drink to combine all the ingredients.
- Garnish with a few maraschino cherries and a slice of lime.
