Shirley Temple

Name: Shirley Temple
Prep time: 3 min
Total time: 3 min
Yield: 1 serving
Ingredients: 180 ml / 6 oz Ginger ale; 15 ml / 0.5 oz Grenadine; 1 or 2 Maraschino cherry

Ingredients Instructions

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 oz
Lemon-lime soda can be substituted for a different flavor profile.
Grenadine15 ml / 0.5 oz
Adjust quantity to taste for desired sweetness and color.
Maraschino cherry1 or 2
The 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.