Mom's Best Recipes

Recipe

Shirley Temple Mocktail

A bubbly, cherry-bright classic made in minutes with ginger ale, grenadine, and a citrusy finish.

By Matt Campbell

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4.8

A tall highball glass filled with ice and a bright red Shirley Temple, topped with two maraschino cherries and an orange slice on a warm kitchen counter

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Some drinks are less about being fancy and more about being fun. The Shirley Temple is that friend who shows up sparkling, a little extra, and somehow makes everyone feel like they are at a party even if it is just a Tuesday dinner.

This is my go-to version for family dinners: fizzy ginger ale, a hit of grenadine for that ruby glow, and enough citrus to keep it bright instead of sugary. It is kid-approved, crowd-ready, and easy to turn into a grown-up pour if you want the upgrade.

Ginger ale, grenadine, maraschino cherries, fresh orange, and a lime arranged on a clean kitchen counter with a jigger and ice

Why It Works

Balanced sweetness: You can keep it lighter by starting with a smaller pour of grenadine, then adding more only if you want it sweeter.
Maximum fizz: Building it as grenadine first, then ice, then soda can help keep carbonation lively, especially if you keep stirring to a minimum.
Customizable: Go spicier with ginger beer, brighter with lime, or make it a Dirty Shirley for the grown-ups.

Pairs Well With

Storage Tips

Shirley Temples are best fresh because carbonation disappears fast, but you have options.

Leftover mixed drink: It is safe to cover and refrigerate up to 24 hours, but it will taste noticeably flatter. To revive, pour over fresh ice and top with a splash of new ginger ale.
Prep-ahead shortcut: Mix a small jar of citrus juice + grenadine (no soda) and refrigerate up to 3 days. When ready, add ice and ginger ale.
For a crowd: This one is best built per glass to keep the bubbles strong. If you want to speed things up, line up glasses with grenadine and ice, then top each with soda right before serving.

Common Questions

Is a Shirley Temple made with ginger ale or Sprite?

Both show up in the wild. I prefer ginger ale because it adds a little spice that keeps the sweetness in check. If you want a lighter, more lemon-lime vibe, use Sprite or 7UP.

What is the difference between a Shirley Temple and a Dirty Shirley?

A Dirty Shirley is the grown-up version with alcohol, usually vodka. Add 1 to 1 1/2 ounces vodka to the glass before topping with ginger ale.

Can I use ginger beer?

Yes, and it is delicious. Ginger beer is spicier and less “soda sweet.” Use the same amount, then adjust grenadine down a touch if needed.

How do I keep the layers looking pretty?

You have two good options, depending on what you want most.

Option A (simple and fizzy): Add grenadine first, then ice, then soda. It mixes gently as you sip, and it can help keep things bubbly since you are not stirring much.

Option B (best ombré layers): Add ice and soda first, then pour the grenadine slowly down the side of the glass. Skip the stir for that classic rosy fade.

Is grenadine just cherry syrup?

Traditionally it is pomegranate-based. Many grocery store versions taste cherry-forward or use added flavors and color. Either works here. If yours is very sweet, use a lighter pour and add extra citrus.

Matt Campbell

I have always had a huge passion for the culinary arts, people, working as a team, and so on. I wanted to pursue my love for cooking initially at Virginia Commonwealth University with a culinary arts degree; however, I instead decided to apply myself and acquire more practical skills. My end goal is to eventually open my own restaurant or similar establishment.

Kitchen Essentials

Tall glass (highball) or any sturdy tumbler
Jigger or measuring spoons
Long spoon or straw for a gentle stir
Citrus juicer (optional, but nice)

I did not grow up in a kitchen that made mocktails on purpose. Drinks were mostly water, sweet tea, or whatever was in the fridge. The first time I had a Shirley Temple felt like getting handed a tiny celebration in a glass: neon red, fizzy, and crowned with cherries like a reward for existing.

Now I make them when I want that same energy at home. It is my favorite “everyone gets a special drink” move, especially when dinner is simple and I still want the table to feel like something.