Shirley Temple Recipe

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So, the Shirley Temple drink is one of those simple little recipes that always feels fun to make, and it’s basically just a fizzy, sweet red soda with a cherry on top. It doesn’t take more than a minute to put together, and because it’s so quick, you don’t really need to plan ahead or do anything complicated.

It works best as a refreshing snack-time drink or something to serve when you want a non-alcoholic option at a gathering, and it’s nice because everyone can enjoy it no matter the age. And now that you know the basics, let’s move into what exactly the Shirley Temple drink is.

The Shirley Temple drink is a non-alcoholic beverage that’s made with grenadine, lemon-lime soda, and a cherry on top. It’s fizzy, sweet, and has that bright red color which makes it look cheerful and fun. Because it’s so simple, it has become one of those classic drinks that people often make for kids or for anyone who wants something refreshing without alcohol.

It’s usually served in a tall glass with ice and garnished with maraschino cherries, which makes it feel a little special even though it’s easy to prepare. Over the years, it has been a popular choice at restaurants and parties, and it’s still enjoyed today as a family-friendly drink that works for almost any occasion.

Quick to make: The Shirley Temple drink comes together in just about a minute, so you don’t need to spend much time preparing it.

Simple ingredients: You only need grenadine, soda, ice, and cherries, which are all easy to find and usually kept at home.

Beginner-friendly: Since there’s no cooking involved, anyone can make it without worrying about messing up.

Kid-friendly and family-friendly: It’s a non-alcoholic drink, so it works perfectly for kids, and adults can enjoy it too.

Easy to customize: You can swap the soda for ginger ale or even add a splash of orange juice if you want a little change.

Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a casual snack, a party, or just a refreshing drink on a hot day, it always fits in.

When you make the Shirley Temple drink, you really don’t need a long list of things, and everything is very simple to understand. Each ingredient has its own little role, and together they make the drink taste sweet, fizzy, and fun.

  • Ice – keeps the drink cold and refreshing.
  • Grenadine – adds the sweet flavor and gives the drink its red color.
  • Lemon-lime soda – brings the fizz and balances the sweetness.
  • Maraschino cherries – used as garnish to make the drink look nice and add a little extra flavor.

💡 Note: For the full ingredient list with exact amounts and measurements, please check the recipe card below.

Step 1: Prepare the glass with ice

Start by taking a clear glass and filling it with a good amount of ice cubes. The ice is important because it keeps the drink cold and gives that refreshing feeling when you sip it. You’ll notice the cubes clinking against the glass, which already makes it feel like a fun drink.

Step 2: Add the grenadine

Next, pour in the grenadine syrup. This is what gives the Shirley Temple drink its bright red color and sweet flavor. As the syrup touches the ice, you’ll see it slowly spread and settle at the bottom, which looks pretty before mixing.

Step 3: Top with soda

Now, gently pour lemon-lime soda over the grenadine and ice. The fizz will rise up, and you’ll hear that bubbly sound which makes the drink feel lively. The soda mixes with the grenadine, turning the whole drink into a cheerful red shade.

Step 4: Garnish with cherries

Finally, add a couple of maraschino cherries on top. They float nicely and give the drink a little extra sweetness. The bright red cherries also make the Shirley Temple drink look more festive and fun to serve.

💡 Note: These steps are just an overview. For detailed quantities, measurements, and exact timings to make this recipe, please check the recipe card below.

Ice matters: Always use fresh ice cubes because melted or old ice can water down the Shirley Temple drink and make it taste flat.

Grenadine layering: If you pour the grenadine first and then add soda slowly, you’ll get a nice layered look before it mixes, which makes the drink look prettier.

Soda choice: Stick with lemon-lime soda for the classic taste, but ginger ale works well if you want something less sweet.

Cherry garnish: Don’t skip the cherries because they add both flavor and a fun look, and kids especially love them.

Glass size: Use a tall glass so the fizz has room to rise, otherwise it can spill over and make a mess.

  • Roy Rogers version: Swap the lemon-lime soda for cola to make a darker, sweeter drink.
  • Orange twist: Add a splash of orange juice for a slightly tangy flavor that balances the sweetness.
  • Cherry juice swap: Use maraschino cherry syrup instead of grenadine if that’s what you have on hand.
  • Diet-friendly option: Use diet soda or sugar-free grenadine to cut down on calories and sugar.
  • Seasonal idea: Add fresh fruit slices like orange or lime during summer for a more refreshing look and taste.
  • Fancy garnish: Try using Luxardo cherries for a richer flavor if you want to make it feel more grown-up.

1. Perfect for parties:

The Shirley Temple drink works really well at birthdays or family gatherings because it’s colorful, fun, and safe for all ages.

2. Serve with snacks:

It pairs nicely with finger foods like popcorn, chips, or even simple sandwiches since the sweetness balances salty flavors.

3. Great for summer:

This drink feels extra refreshing on hot days, so it’s perfect to serve at picnics or outdoor barbecues.

4. Pairs well with light meals:

You can enjoy it alongside casual meals like burgers, pizza, or salads because it adds a fizzy, sweet touch without being heavy.

  • How long it keeps: The Shirley Temple drink is best enjoyed fresh, but if you really need to store it, you can keep it in the fridge for a few hours. After that, the soda loses its fizz and the flavor feels flat.
  • Best storage method: If you want to prepare ahead, store the grenadine and soda separately. Mix them only when serving so the drink stays bubbly and bright.
  • Simple reheating advice: Since this is a cold drink, there’s no reheating needed. If it warms up, just add fresh ice cubes to bring back the chilled taste.

  1. Can I substitute grenadine with something else?

    Yes, you can use maraschino cherry syrup if that’s what you have, though the flavor will be slightly different.

  2. Can I make the Shirley Temple drink ahead of time?

    It’s best to mix it right before serving because the soda loses its fizz quickly. If you want to prepare ahead, keep the grenadine and soda separate until ready to serve.

  3. Why does my Shirley Temple drink taste too sweet?

    This usually happens if you add too much grenadine. Try pouring less and balance it with extra soda.

  4. Is there a diet-friendly option?

    Yes, you can use sugar-free soda or a lighter grenadine to cut down on calories and sugar.

Shirley Temple

Difficulty:BeginnerPrep time: 1 minuteCook time: minutesRest time: minutesTotal time: 1 minuteServings:8 servingsCalories (per serving):216 kcal Best Season:Summer

Description

The Shirley Temple drink is a quick and easy non-alcoholic beverage made with grenadine, lemon-lime soda, and maraschino cherries. It’s fizzy, sweet, and colorful, making it perfect for kids, family gatherings, or anyone who wants a refreshing drink without alcohol.

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Fill each glass with ice cubes until about three-quarters full.
  2. Pour 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) grenadine into the glass over the ice.
  3. Slowly top with 8 ounces lemon-lime soda (such as Sprite or 7UP), letting the fizz rise and mix with the grenadine.
  4. Stir gently if needed, then garnish with 1-2 maraschino cherries before serving.

Notes

  • You can substitute ginger ale for soda if you prefer a less sweet version.
  • For a fun twist, add a splash of orange juice to balance the flavors.
  • Use Luxardo cherries instead of regular maraschino for a richer garnish.
Keywords:No-Cook, Vegetarian

Nutrition Facts

Servings 8

Serving Size 1 drink (approx. 8 oz)


Amount Per Serving
Calories 216kcal
% Daily Value *
Sodium 36mg2%
Potassium 14mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 55g19%
Sugars 45g
Protein 1g2%

Calcium 8 mg
Iron 1 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000‑calorie diet, and your daily needs may be higher or lower depending on your lifestyle. Nutrition information is shared only as a general estimate and may not always be fully accurate. If you follow a special diet or have specific health concerns, it’s best to check with a registered dietitian for personalized guidance.

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About Author

Sophie Garcia

Hi, I’m Sophie! I share cozy, approachable recipes on Pure Recipe Bliss. It is simple dishes made with love to bring warmth and joy to everyday cooking.

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