A classic mocktail that kids and adults have been enjoying for almost a century. Get the modern recipe for a Shirley Temple and learn how this classic cocktail came to be a household staple.

The Shirley Temple, or kiddie cocktail, is a classic mocktail created in the 1930’s for the actress of the same name. This drink is still popular with the younger crowd and is a fun way to celebrate a special occasion. Scroll down for the Shirley temple recipe and learn a few variations on the classic drink.
Originally this drink was made in honor of the young actress. It was made with ginger ale and grenadine served over ice with a garnish of maraschino cherries and an orange slice. Today this classic mix is still served but some variations have been made.
A classic kids drink this mocktail is sometimes called a Kiddie Cocktail. At weddings, parties or even at home; kids feel special drinking something sparkly. And who can resist a couple of sweet cherries on top of a drink.
Variations of a Shirley Temple
Over the years the ginger ale has been substituted for other white sodas like 7-Up or Sprite. If you are looking to take the sweetness down a bit you can use sparkling water in this drink.

Some will substitute maraschino cherry juice, right out of the jar, for grenadine. This varies the taste a little but the result is still a sweet and sparkly drink. If you don’t have grenadine in your bar grab the jar of cherries to make this mocktail.
How to make a modern Shirley Temple
Start with a highball or rocks glass filled with ice. Add 1/4 ounce of grenadine and top with white soda. To make a layered drink, add the grenadine to an empty glass then top with ice. Slowly pour soda into the glass to layer it on top of the red grenadine. This will give the drink a layered ombre looks that moves from red at the bottom to clear at the top.
To make a pink drink, use the same ingredients just mix them thoroughly in the glass.

Top with a maraschino cherry or 2 and an orange slice if desired. The garnish will depend on your taste, or the tastes of the kids you are serving. I love using cherries with stems, they are easier for kids to find in the drink and easier to eat too.

Shirley Temple
A classic mocktail names after the 1930's actress, also called a Kiddie Cocktail.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces 7-Up
- 1/2 ounce grenadine
- Ice
- Maraschino cherries for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a highball glass with ice.
- Mix in grenadine and 7-Up
- Top with cherries and enjoy.
Notes
Try a few of these variations on this classic mocktail.
Substitute ginger ale or sparkling water for the 7-Up.
Garnish with an orange slice for a citrus kick.
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A classic mocktail, this non=alcoholic drink is ideal for kids and adults looking for something sparkly and festive. Try a few of these variations until you create the perfect drink.
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