Shirley Temple

Shirley Temple Soda – Premade Mocktail for Kids

When it comes to pre-mixed Shirley Temple sodas, you’ve got a couple of solid options. Zevia offers a zero-calorie take on the classic, sweetened with Stevia, a hit for those watching their sugar. On the other hand, Stewart uses cane sugar and natural flavors to capture that nostalgic soda fountain feel. Of the two, I’d lean toward Stewart’s for the win. It nails the balance between sweet and tart, and the cane sugar adds an authentic touch that’s hard to beat. 

What is a Dirty Shirley Temple?

A Dirty Shirley Temple is a grown-up twist on the classic Shirley Temple. It adds vodka or another clear spirit to the traditional ginger ale and Grenadine mix. This addition of alcohol transforms the family-friendly favorite into a cocktail suitable for adult gatherings. The Dirty Shirley Temple maintains the sweet and bubbly characteristics of the original but with an extra kick from the alcohol.

Variations

Thinking about alternative choices? We’ve highlighted some of our favorites.

• Shirley Temple Black: This combines cola or black cherry soda with the signature grenadine syrup for a deeper, more mature taste. The dark soda offers a unique, rich flavor that perfectly complements the sweet grenadine. I appreciate the sophisticated depth this brings; it feels like a grown-up twist on a childhood classic.
• Tropical Temple: This merges pineapple juice and coconut water, creating a refreshing escape to tropical shores. The pineapple juice adds a vibrant, fruity burst, while the coconut water introduces a subtle, refreshing twist. I love the way the coconut water’s lightness plays off the pineapple’s boldness, making it an irresistibly refreshing choice.
• Cherry Bomb Cocktail: This infuses the effervescence of cherry soda into the mix, elevating the sweetness and adding a vivid cherry flavor. The cherry soda not only enhances the color but also deepens the fruitiness, making it an instant favorite for those who love a bold, fruity kick. The vibrant cherry flavor stands out to me, making it a lively and enjoyable pick.

History and Origins

The Shirley Temple cocktail traces its roots back to the 1930s, during the height of the American child actress Shirley Temple’s fame. Many believe that a bartender at Chasen’s, a famous Beverly Hills restaurant, created the drink as a non-alcoholic option for the young star. The aim was to give Shirley Temple a beverage she could enjoy while accompanying her parents at social events or Hollywood parties. Over time, the drink gained immense popularity, not just among children but also among adults looking for a non-alcoholic option. Its simple yet delightful combination of ginger ale, and Grenadine quickly made it a staple at parties, restaurants, and family gatherings. The drink’s fame spread internationally; today, you can find it on menus worldwide.