Go Back

Classic Shirley Temple

This classic Shirley Temple mocktail combines ginger ale, grenadine, and maraschino cherries into a refreshing non-alcoholic drink that's perfect for parties, family gatherings, and anyone who wants a fancy fizzy beverage. Ready in under 2 minutes with beautiful pink gradient presentation.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 2 minutes
Total Time 2 minutes
Servings: 1 drink
Course: Beverage
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 8 ounces ginger ale or lemon lime soda
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons grenadine syrup
  • 2 to 3 maraschino cherries
  • 1 fresh orange slice for garnish
  • Ice cubes enough to fill the glass

Equipment

  • Highball glass or Collins glass (10 to 12 ounces)
  • Jigger or measuring spoons
  • Bar spoon or long handled spoon
  • Ice scoop or tongs
  • Cocktail picks for garnish (optional)

Method
 

  1. Chill your highball glass in the freezer for 5 minutes before assembling. A cold glass keeps your drink colder longer.
  2. Remove your chilled glass and fill it about three quarters full with ice cubes.
  3. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of grenadine directly over the ice. Start with less grenadine if you prefer a subtler sweetness.
  4. Slowly pour the ginger ale over the ice, leaving about half an inch of room at the top. Pouring slowly preserves more carbonation.
  5. For the signature ombre effect, do not stir yet. The grenadine will sink to the bottom and slowly rise through the soda, creating the classic sunset appearance.
  6. Drop 2 to 3 maraschino cherries into the drink. You can thread them onto a cocktail pick and rest it across the rim for a more polished presentation.
  7. Cut a small notch in an orange slice and perch it on the rim of the glass.
  8. Serve immediately while the carbonation is still lively. Provide a straw and bar spoon so guests can stir when ready to fully combine the flavors.

Notes

Use freshly opened soda for maximum fizz. Invest in quality grenadine made with real pomegranate juice for superior flavor. Pour the grenadine after the soda if you want a bottom layer effect, or pour it last by drizzling down a bar spoon for a top float that cascades down beautifully. For a Dirty Shirley adult version, add 1.5 ounces of vodka.