The Shirley Temple is a classic cocktail that has been a staple in bars and restaurants for generations. This iconic drink is a favorite among both kids and adults alike, and its enduring popularity can be attributed to its unique blend of flavors and its association with the beloved child actress Shirley Temple. In this article, we’ll delve into the history of the Shirley Temple, its ingredients, and how to make it.
A Brief History of the Shirley Temple
The Shirley Temple was created in the 1930s by a bartender at the Brown Derby restaurant in Hollywood, California. The drink was originally called the “Shirley Temple Black Cherry” and was created specifically for the young actress Shirley Temple, who was a regular at the restaurant. The drink quickly gained popularity and soon became a staple on the restaurant’s menu.
The Original Recipe
The original recipe for the Shirley Temple consisted of ginger ale, grenadine, and a splash of orange juice, garnished with a maraschino cherry and an orange slice. The drink was served in a tall glass with a straw and was marketed as a “mocktail” for kids.
What Goes in a Shirley Temple Cocktail?
So, what exactly goes into a Shirley Temple cocktail? The ingredients are simple, but the combination is what makes the drink so special.
- Ginger Ale: The base of the Shirley Temple is ginger ale, which provides the drink’s fizz and flavor.
- Grenadine: Grenadine is a sweet and tart syrup made from pomegranate juice, sugar, and water. It adds a fruity flavor to the drink and gives it its distinctive red color.
- Orange Juice: A splash of orange juice adds a touch of citrus to the drink and helps to balance out the sweetness of the grenadine.
- Maraschino Cherry: A maraschino cherry is used as a garnish for the drink, adding a sweet and fruity flavor.
- Orange Slice: An orange slice is also used as a garnish, adding a touch of citrus to the drink.
Variations of the Shirley Temple
Over the years, variations of the Shirley Temple have emerged, with some bartenders adding their own twist to the classic recipe. Some popular variations include:
| Variation | Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Dirty Shirley | Ginger ale, grenadine, orange juice, and a splash of vodka |
| Shirley Temple Black | Ginger ale, grenadine, and a splash of lemon-lime soda |
| Shirley Temple Spritzer | Prosecco, grenadine, and a splash of orange juice |
How to Make a Shirley Temple
Making a Shirley Temple is easy and requires just a few ingredients. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Fill a Glass with Ice
Fill a tall glass with ice cubes. This will help to keep the drink cold and prevent the ice from melting too quickly.
Step 2: Add Ginger Ale
Pour ginger ale into the glass, filling it about 2/3 full.
Step 3: Add Grenadine
Add a splash of grenadine to the glass, about 1-2 ounces.
Step 4: Add Orange Juice
Add a splash of orange juice to the glass, about 1-2 ounces.
Step 5: Garnish with a Maraschino Cherry and Orange Slice
Garnish the drink with a maraschino cherry and an orange slice.
Conclusion
The Shirley Temple is a classic cocktail that has been a staple in bars and restaurants for generations. Its unique blend of flavors and its association with the beloved child actress Shirley Temple have made it a favorite among both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing drink to enjoy on a hot summer day or a special treat for a child’s birthday party, the Shirley Temple is a great choice. So next time you’re at a bar or restaurant, be sure to order a Shirley Temple and experience the magic of this timeless cocktail for yourself.
What is a Shirley Temple cocktail?
A Shirley Temple is a classic mocktail that has been enjoyed by people of all ages for generations. It is a refreshing drink made with ginger ale, grenadine syrup, and a splash of orange juice, garnished with a maraschino cherry and an orange slice. The drink is named after the famous child actress Shirley Temple, who was a popular star in the 1930s and 1940s.
The Shirley Temple is often served at family gatherings, parties, and special events, and is a popular choice for children and adults alike who want a tasty and bubbly drink without the added spirits. The combination of sweet and tangy flavors makes it a delightful treat that is sure to please even the pickiest of palates.
What are the ingredients in a Shirley Temple?
The ingredients in a Shirley Temple are simple and easy to find. The basic recipe calls for ginger ale, grenadine syrup, and a splash of orange juice. Some recipes may also include a squeeze of fresh lime juice or a splash of lemon-lime soda for added flavor. The drink is typically garnished with a maraschino cherry and an orange slice, which adds a pop of color and a touch of sweetness.
To make a Shirley Temple, you will need to have the following ingredients on hand: ginger ale, grenadine syrup, orange juice, maraschino cherries, and orange slices. You can adjust the amount of each ingredient to taste, and feel free to add your own twist to the recipe to make it your own.
How do I make a Shirley Temple?
Making a Shirley Temple is easy and fun. To start, fill a glass with ice and pour in some ginger ale. Next, add a splash of grenadine syrup and a squeeze of orange juice. Stir the mixture gently to combine, and then garnish with a maraschino cherry and an orange slice.
You can adjust the amount of each ingredient to taste, and feel free to add your own twist to the recipe to make it your own. Some ideas for variations include adding a splash of lemon-lime soda for extra fizz, or using a different type of juice, such as pineapple or grapefruit, for a unique flavor.
Can I make a Shirley Temple with spirits?
While the classic Shirley Temple recipe is a mocktail, you can easily make a version with spirits for adults who want a bit of a kick. One popular variation is the “Dirty Shirley,” which adds a splash of vodka to the mix. You can also try adding a splash of rum or other spirits to give the drink a bit of a boost.
When making a Shirley Temple with spirits, be sure to adjust the amount of each ingredient to taste. You may want to start with a small amount of spirits and add more to taste, as the flavor can quickly become overpowering. Also be sure to serve the drink responsibly and only to adults who are 21 and over.
Is a Shirley Temple a healthy drink option?
While the Shirley Temple is a tasty and fun drink, it is not necessarily a healthy option. The drink is high in sugar and calories, thanks to the ginger ale and grenadine syrup. Additionally, the maraschino cherry and orange slice add a bit of extra sugar and calories to the mix.
That being said, the Shirley Temple can be a healthier option than some other drinks, especially if you make a few tweaks to the recipe. Try using a sugar-free ginger ale or a low-calorie sweetener, such as stevia or honey, to reduce the sugar content of the drink. You can also try using fresh fruit, such as a slice of orange or a handful of cherries, instead of the maraschino cherry and orange slice.
Can I make a Shirley Temple at home?
Yes, you can easily make a Shirley Temple at home. The ingredients are simple and easy to find, and the recipe is quick and easy to follow. To make a Shirley Temple at home, you will need to have the following ingredients on hand: ginger ale, grenadine syrup, orange juice, maraschino cherries, and orange slices.
To make the drink, simply fill a glass with ice and pour in some ginger ale. Next, add a splash of grenadine syrup and a squeeze of orange juice. Stir the mixture gently to combine, and then garnish with a maraschino cherry and an orange slice. You can adjust the amount of each ingredient to taste, and feel free to add your own twist to the recipe to make it your own.
Is a Shirley Temple a good drink for kids?
Yes, the Shirley Temple is a great drink for kids. The drink is sweet and bubbly, making it a fun and tasty treat for kids of all ages. The ingredients are also non-toxic and safe for kids to consume, making it a great option for family gatherings and special events.
That being said, be sure to monitor the amount of sugar your child is consuming, as the Shirley Temple is high in sugar and calories. You may also want to consider making a few tweaks to the recipe to make it a bit healthier, such as using a sugar-free ginger ale or a low-calorie sweetener.