Written by Clara Rose
The Shirley Temple drink is a classic, non-alcoholic beverage that has been a favorite among children and adults alike for decades. Known for its sweet, fizzy, and fruity flavors, the Shirley Temple Drink is often served at parties, special occasions, or simply as a refreshing treat. In this article, we will explore the ingredients in a Shirley Temple Drink, provide a simple 3-ingredient recipe, and answer common questions about variations like the dirty Shirley Temple and which soda is better for making this drink.
Table of Contents

Easy Shirley Temple Drink
The Shirley Temple drink is a classic, non-alcoholic beverage known for its sweet, fizzy, and fruity flavors. Perfect for any occasion, this simple drink is made with just three ingredients: ginger ale (or 7Up or Sprite), grenadine, and a maraschino cherry.
- Total Time: 2 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
Ingredients
The ingredients for making a classic Shirley Temple drink: ginger ale, grenadine syrup, and a maraschino cherry. 1/2 cup of ginger ale (or Sprite or 7Up)
- 1–2 tablespoons of grenadine syrup
- A maraschino cherry (for garnish)
Instructions
- Fill a glass with ice.
- Pour ginger ale (or your choice of soda) into the glass.
- Add grenadine syrup to the soda and stir gently to mix.
- Top it off with a maraschino cherry for the classic garnish.
Notes
This simple, 3-ingredient version is a great way to enjoy a sweet and bubbly Shirley Temple without any fuss.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Drink
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 25mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Shirley Temple, drink, non-alcoholic, sweet, fizzy, party
What is the 3-Ingredient Shirley Temple?
- The Basic Ingredients for a 3-Ingredient Shirley Temple
A traditional Shirley Temple drink is known for its simplicity and delightful combination of sweet flavors. The classic 3-ingredient version of the Shirley Temple is easy to prepare and perfect for anyone who enjoys a fizzy, fruity drink.
Ingredients for a 3-Ingredient Shirley Temple:
- 1/2 cup of ginger ale (or Sprite or 7Up)
- 1-2 tablespoons of grenadine syrup
- A maraschino cherry (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Fill a glass with ice.
- Pour ginger ale (or your choice of soda) into the glass.
- Add grenadine syrup to the soda and stir gently to mix.
- Top it off with a maraschino cherry for the classic garnish.
This simple, 3-ingredient version is a great way to enjoy a sweet and bubbly Shirley Temple without any fuss.
Tropical Carrot Detox – A refreshing, healthy drink for a contrast to the sweetness of a Shirley Temple.
What Are the Ingredients in a Shirley Temple Drink?
- Traditional Ingredients
The original Shirley Temple drink is made with three basic ingredients: ginger ale, grenadine, and a maraschino cherry. Grenadine, a sweet syrup made from pomegranate juice, is what gives the drink its characteristic red color and fruity sweetness.
Key Ingredients:
- Ginger Ale or Lemon-Lime Soda: This carbonated base gives the Shirley Temple its signature fizz and slight citrusy flavor. Some versions use Sprite or 7Up, while others use ginger ale for an extra zing.
- Grenadine: This syrup, typically made from pomegranate or cherry juice, adds sweetness and a rich red hue to the drink.
- Maraschino Cherry: Traditionally placed on top of the drink, the maraschino cherry is not only a garnish but adds a touch of sweetness and color to the drink.
Optional Additions:
- Some versions include a splash of lime juice or orange juice for added flavor complexity.
- You can also make it “dirty” by adding a shot of alcohol, like vodka or rum, for those who want an adult version.
Homemade Detox Smoothie Recipe – Another refreshing, fruity drink that pairs well with the sweetness of a Shirley Temple.

Is 7Up or Sprite Better for Shirley Temple?
- 7Up vs. Sprite in a Shirley Temple
Both 7Up and Sprite are popular soda choices for making a Shirley Temple. While they are quite similar, there are subtle differences between the two that may influence your choice based on personal preference.
Sprite:
- Sprite has a slightly stronger lemon-lime flavor compared to 7Up. Its crisp and refreshing taste pairs well with the sweetness of grenadine, making it an excellent choice for a Shirley Temple.
- Sprite’s flavor is more assertive, so if you prefer a tangier base, Sprite might be the better option.
7Up:
- 7Up is a bit smoother and less citrusy compared to Sprite. Its flavor profile is a little milder, making it a good choice if you want the sweetness of the grenadine to shine more without the soda’s flavor being too overpowering.
- Some people prefer 7Up for its smoother texture and subtle sweetness, which balances well with the fruity grenadine.
In the end, both are great options, so it comes down to personal preference. If you want a bolder citrus flavor, go with Sprite. If you prefer a milder, smoother taste, opt for 7Up.
Raspberry Green Tea Smoothie – A fruity alternative to a Shirley Temple if you’re looking for something refreshing but healthier.
What’s a Dirty Shirley Temple Drink?
- The Classic Shirley Temple with a Twist
A dirty Shirley Temple is an adult version of the classic non-alcoholic drink. By adding alcohol, it turns the refreshing Shirley Temple into a fun and festive cocktail for grown-ups. The “dirty” in the name refers to the addition of alcohol to the traditionally virgin drink.
Ingredients for a Dirty Shirley Temple:
- 1 1/2 ounces of vodka (or rum, if you prefer)
- 1/2 cup of ginger ale or Sprite/7Up
- 1-2 tablespoons of grenadine
- A maraschino cherry for garnish
Instructions:
- Add ice to a glass and pour in the vodka (or rum).
- Add ginger ale (or Sprite/7Up) and grenadine, then stir to mix.
- Garnish with a maraschino cherry.
The dirty Shirley Temple is perfect for parties or gatherings where you want a fun and fruity cocktail with a nostalgic twist. The vodka or rum adds a kick while the grenadine keeps the drink sweet and colorful.
Brazilian Mounjaro Recipe – An adult beverage with a unique flavor profile that pairs well with the dirty Shirley Temple.
How to Customize Your Shirley Temple
- Add Fresh Fruit for Extra Flavor
You can make your Shirley Temple even more refreshing by adding fresh fruit like lime, lemon slices, or berries. Fresh fruit can enhance the drink’s flavor profile and make it more visually appealing. - Make It Healthier
If you’re looking for a healthier twist, consider using a diet soda or sparkling water instead of regular soda to reduce the sugar content. You can also opt for natural grenadine made with real fruit juice instead of the commercial, sugar-filled version. - Experiment with Other Juices
While grenadine is the most traditional choice, feel free to experiment with other fruit juices to add complexity to your Shirley Temple. Pomegranate juice, cranberry juice, or even orange juice can be fun variations to try.
Keto Cottage Cheese Egg Recipe – A savory recipe to balance out the sweetness of a Shirley Temple for a well-rounded meal.

FAQ
What is the 3-ingredient Shirley Temple?
A 3-ingredient Shirley Temple is made with ginger ale (or Sprite/7Up), grenadine syrup, and a maraschino cherry. It’s a sweet and fizzy non-alcoholic drink.
What are the ingredients in a Shirley Temple drink?
A traditional Shirley Temple drink consists of ginger ale or lemon-lime soda, grenadine syrup, and a maraschino cherry. Optional ingredients include lime or lemon slices.
Is 7Up or Sprite better for Shirley Temple?
Both 7Up and Sprite are great choices for making a Shirley Temple. Sprite has a stronger citrus flavor, while 7Up is milder and smoother. It comes down to your preference for flavor intensity.
What’s a dirty Shirley Temple drink?
A dirty Shirley Temple is an adult version of the classic drink. It’s made by adding vodka or rum to the traditional Shirley Temple, turning it into a fun cocktail.
Conclusion
The Shirley Temple drink is a fun and refreshing beverage that has been enjoyed for generations. Whether you’re making the classic 3-ingredient version, experimenting with a dirty Shirley Temple, or looking for healthier alternatives, there’s a variation for everyone. It’s a versatile drink that can be enjoyed by both kids and adults, offering sweet, fruity flavors and a burst of fizzy refreshment.
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