Shirley Temple
The Shirley Temple is a world-famous non-alcoholic beverage known for its sweet, bubbly character and vibrant red hue. It combines the spicy notes of ginger ale with the sweet-tart flavor of pomegranate from the grenadine. Served over ice and traditionally garnished with a maraschino cherry, it's a festive and refreshing drink beloved by children and adults alike. It offers a simple yet satisfying alternative to alcoholic cocktails for any occasion.
Preparation
Preparation time: 3 minutes
Preparation time
Difficulty
Drink Classification
The Shirley Temple is classified as a classic mocktail, a category for non-alcoholic mixed drinks that have stood the test of time. It is one of the most famous mocktails in the world, often serving as a gateway drink for those exploring mixed beverages without alcohol. Its enduring popularity places it firmly in the classic category.
Serving
This is a non-alcoholic drink served cold over ice in a tall Highball or Collins glass. The serving size is moderate, making for a refreshing long drink.
Serving size
Approximately 240-300 ml / 8-10 oz
Alcohol content
0% ABV
Alcohol strength
Serving temperature
Cold
Glass type
Highball glass
Glass treatment
None
Backstory
The drink is named after the iconic child actress Shirley Temple and was reportedly created for her in the 1930s. The most popular origin story places its invention at Chasen's restaurant in Beverly Hills, California. The young actress wanted a sophisticated, non-alcoholic beverage to enjoy while dining with adults, so the bartender mixed up this special, age-appropriate concoction just for her.
Origin
The Shirley Temple originated in the United States, specifically in Beverly Hills, California, during the 1930s. It was created to be a non-alcoholic "cocktail" for the child star it was named after. Its creation is most frequently attributed to the restaurant Chasen's, a popular haunt for Hollywood celebrities of the era.
Shirley Temple
The drink is universally known as the Shirley Temple and has no common alternative names, though it can be described by its main ingredients, grenadine and ginger ale. It is sometimes specified as a "non-alcoholic Shirley Temple" to distinguish it from its alcoholic variations. The name itself is the most recognized and widely used term.
Original name
Shirley Temple
Alternative names
- Grenadine and Ginger Ale
- Non-alcoholic Shirley Temple
Characteristics overview
The Shirley Temple is a visually appealing drink with a pinkish-red hue, offering a delightful balance of sweet fruitiness and spicy ginger. Its crisp, bubbly texture makes it incredibly refreshing and suitable for enjoyment year-round.
Flavor
Sweet, ginger-spicy, slightly fruity, pomegranate
Aroma
Ginger, sweet, fruity, maraschino cherry
Taste balance
Sweet, slightly tart
Aftertaste
Clean, sweet, lingering ginger spice
Fizziness
Bubbly, effervescent, sparkling
Color appearance
Pink to reddish, clear, bubbly, often with a color gradient
Texture
Light, crisp, effervescent
Seasonality
Refreshing, all-season
Flavor intensity & Experience
The drink's flavor profile is defined by a high level of sweetness and carbonation, with moderate fruitiness and a mild ginger spice. It has no alcohol, bitterness, or saltiness, making it very approachable.
Sweetness
Saltiness
Sourness
Bitterness
Spiciness
Fruitiness
Creaminess
Carbonation
Ingredients
This mocktail requires just two liquid ingredients: ginger ale for a spicy, bubbly base and grenadine for sweetness and color. The signature maraschino cherry garnish is essential to complete the classic drink.
- Ginger ale180 ml / 6 ozLemon-lime soda can be substituted for a different flavor profile.
- Grenadine15 ml / 0.5 ozAdjust quantity to taste for desired sweetness and color.
- Maraschino cherry1 or 2The essential garnish for a classic Shirley Temple.
Ice type
- Cubed
Mixing equipments
No specialized bar tools are required to make a Shirley Temple. Basic measuring tools ensure consistency, but the drink is simple enough to be built directly in the glass by eye.
- Jigger or measuring spoons for measuring
- Bar spoon for stirring (optional)
Instructions
The drink is incredibly easy to make by building it directly in an ice-filled glass. Simply pour in the ginger ale, add the grenadine, garnish with a cherry, and serve.
1. Fill a Highball glass with ice cubes to the top.
2. Pour the ginger ale over the ice, leaving a little space at the top.
3. Slowly pour the grenadine over the back of a spoon into the glass. This will cause it to sink and create a layered effect.
4. Stir very gently with a bar spoon to combine slightly, or serve layered for visual effect.
5. Garnish by dropping one or two maraschino cherries into the drink.
6. Serve immediately with a straw.
Garnishing
The iconic garnish is a bright red maraschino cherry, which adds visual appeal and a final sweet bite. For extra flair, a slice of orange or a wedge of lemon can be placed on the glass rim.
- Maraschino cherry: Drop one or two into the finished drink.
- Orange slice or lemon wedge: Place on the rim of the glass (optional).
Dietary Information
As a non-alcoholic and caffeine-free beverage, the Shirley Temple is generally suitable for most dietary restrictions. It is typically vegan and free from common allergens like dairy, eggs, nuts, and gluten, though it is always wise to check the specific ingredient labels.
✕ Contains alcohol
✓ Caffeine-free
✓ Dairy-free
✓ Egg-free
✓ Soy-free
✓ Nut-free
✓ Gluten-free
✓ Vegan-friendly
✓ Vegetarian-friendly
Nutrition information
This beverage is relatively low in calories but contains a high amount of sugar from both the grenadine and the ginger ale. It is not a significant source of any other macronutrients.
Calories
Approximately 90-120 kcal / 377-502 kJ
Calories level
Carbohydrates
Approximately 22-28 g
Carbohydrate level
Sugar
Approximately 20-26 g
Sugar level
Occasions
This drink is perfect for any occasion where a festive non-alcoholic option is needed. It is a staple at children's parties, family gatherings, weddings, and holiday celebrations. Its simple elegance also makes it a great choice for a casual, refreshing drink anytime.
- Parties
- Family gatherings
- Celebrations
- Casual drink
- Kid-friendly events
Pairing suggestions
The sweet and fizzy profile of a Shirley Temple cuts through rich and salty foods perfectly. It is an excellent companion to classic party snacks, appetizers, and casual meals like burgers and fries. Its refreshing nature complements a wide range of light, savory dishes.
- Salty snacks like popcorn, pretzels, or potato chips
- Classic American diner food like burgers, hot dogs, and fries
- Party appetizers and finger foods
- Light sandwiches and wraps
Shirley Temple: The Original Celebrity Mocktail
The Shirley Temple is a timeless non-alcoholic cocktail cherished for its simplicity and sweet, refreshing taste. Combining ginger ale and grenadine, it offers a bubbly, festive experience suitable for all ages and occasions. Its origin story, tied to the famous child actress, adds to its charm, making it a beloved classic around the world. Garnished with a maraschino cherry, it's as visually appealing as it is delicious, proving that a great drink doesn't need alcohol to be special.