There’s something irresistibly nostalgic about a Shirley Temple-sweet, fizzy, and always finished with that cherry on top. But when you’re craving something a little more grown-up, the Shirley Temple Black is the perfect twist. It keeps the playful sparkle of the original but adds a smooth kick, making it a favorite for relaxed evenings or summer get-togethers. I’ve made this drink countless times, and here’s what I’ve learned along the way to make it just right.
Shirley Temple Black
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Glass: Highball glass or mason jar
Ingredients
– 4 oz (120 ml) ginger ale
– ½ oz (15 ml) grenadine
– 1½ oz (45 ml) dark rum or vodka (optional)
– Ice cubes (enough to fill your glass)
– 1 maraschino cherry, for garnish
– Orange slice, for garnish (optional)
Method
- Start by filling a highball glass or mason jar with ice. You want the glass nice and cold-it helps keep everything crisp and refreshing.
- Pour in the ginger ale until the glass is about three-quarters full. You’ll hear that satisfying fizz as it hits the ice.
- Add the grenadine. It’ll sink at first, then slowly swirl up as you stir-it’s what gives the drink that pretty sunset look.
- If you’re going for the adult version, pour in the dark rum or vodka. I like dark rum for a richer flavor, but vodka works if you want something lighter.
- Give everything a gentle stir. You don’t want to lose the bubbles.
- Top it off with a maraschino cherry and an orange slice. That finishing touch makes it feel extra special.
Tips & Tricks
– Chill your glass ahead of time for a cooler, longer-lasting drink.
– Use a good-quality ginger ale-something with a clean, crisp flavor and fine bubbles.
– Want it less sweet? Cut back on the grenadine or try a splash of real pomegranate juice for a more natural taste.
– Ginger beer adds a spicier kick if you prefer more bite than sweetness.
Make-Ahead Notes
You can prep a batch in advance for parties. Just mix the ginger ale and grenadine (and alcohol if using) in a pitcher, but wait to add ice and garnishes until serving so it stays fizzy and fresh.
Substitution Options
– Instead of grenadine: Try pomegranate juice or cherry syrup for a less sugary option.
– No ginger ale? Use club soda with a dash of ginger syrup, or go bold with ginger beer.
– Prefer a different spirit? Bourbon or spiced rum work beautifully for a deeper, warmer flavor.
Storage
This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store a pre-mixed batch (without ice or garnishes) in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just stir before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This drink shines on its own, but it pairs especially well with:
Spicy Foods
Think Thai noodles or spicy wings. The fizz and sweetness help cool the heat.
BBQ Favorites
The rich, smoky flavors of grilled meats go great with the sweet and citrusy notes of this drink.
Light Desserts
Serve it alongside angel food cake or a scoop of sorbet to keep things light and refreshing.
Variations to Try
Roy Rogers Black
– Swap ginger ale with cola.
– Adds deeper, caramel notes and pairs well with rum.
Shirley Ginger Spice
– Add a dash of Angostura bitters before pouring in the ginger ale.
– It gives the drink a more complex, grown-up flavor.
Shirley’s Tropical Sunset
– Add 1 oz (30 ml) pineapple juice and a splash of coconut rum.
– Tropical, fruity, and perfect for beach vibes.
Virgin Shirley Temple Black
– Skip the alcohol and just mix ginger ale and grenadine.
– Still fun, still fancy-perfect for kids or anyone avoiding alcohol.
Common Questions
Can I make this in a big batch for a party?
Yes! Multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need and mix it in a pitcher or punch bowl. Add ice and garnishes just before serving.
Is there a low-sugar version?
Try diet ginger ale and use pomegranate juice instead of grenadine. It cuts the sugar without losing the flavor.
What’s the best garnish?
A maraschino cherry and orange slice are classic, but fresh cherries, a lime wedge, or even a sprig of mint can make it your own.
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino?
Absolutely. It adds a more natural, less sugary flavor-and looks just as pretty.
What’s the key to a great Shirley Temple Black?
Balance. You want just enough sweetness to play off the bubbles and spirit. And don’t skip the garnish-it’s not just for looks!
Final Thoughts
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights on the patio or casual dinners with friends. It’s simple, playful, and always hits the right note. Whether you’re sipping it straight or giving it a twist, the Shirley Temple Black is the kind of drink that makes you smile with every sip.
