The Shirley Temple is a classic mocktail that has been a staple in many restaurants and bars for decades. This iconic drink is named after the famous child actress Shirley Temple, who was a major Hollywood star in the 1930s and 1940s. The drink was created in the 1930s by a bartender at the Brown Derby restaurant in Hollywood, California, specifically for the young actress. The original recipe consists of grenadine syrup, orange juice, ginger ale, and a splash of maraschino liqueur, garnished with a maraschino cherry and an orange slice.
A Brief History of the Shirley Temple
The Shirley Temple mocktail was first created in the 1930s, during the height of Shirley Temple’s acting career. The drink quickly gained popularity and became a favorite among both children and adults. Over the years, the recipe has undergone some variations, but the classic version remains the most popular. The drink’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its sweet and tangy flavor profile, which makes it a perfect choice for those looking for a non-alcoholic beverage that’s both fun and flavorful.
Ingredients and Mixing Instructions
To make a classic Shirley Temple, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 1⁄2 ounces grenadine syrup
- 4 ounces orange juice
- 2 ounces ginger ale
- 1⁄2 ounce maraschino liqueur (optional)
- Maraschino cherry and orange slice for garnish
To mix the drink, fill a glass with ice and pour in the grenadine syrup and orange juice. Top the mixture with ginger ale and stir gently. If desired, add a splash of maraschino liqueur for a slightly sweeter flavor. Garnish the drink with a maraschino cherry and an orange slice, and serve immediately.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Grenadine Syrup | 1 1/2 ounces |
| Orange Juice | 4 ounces |
| Ginger Ale | 2 ounces |
| Maraschino Liqueur (optional) | 1/2 ounce |
Variations and Modern Twists
Over the years, the Shirley Temple has undergone many variations and modern twists. Some popular variations include the Shirley Temple Black, which adds a splash of cola to the classic recipe, and the Shirley Temple Red, which uses cranberry juice instead of orange juice. You can also experiment with different flavors and ingredients, such as adding a splash of grenadine to a Virgin Mary or creating a Shirley Temple Float by adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream to the drink.
Tips and Tricks
When making a Shirley Temple, it’s essential to use the right glassware and garnishes to create a visually appealing drink. A classic highball glass or a tall clear glass is perfect for showcasing the drink’s colorful layers. You can also experiment with different garnishes, such as a sprig of rosemary or a slice of lemon, to add a touch of elegance to the drink.
What is the origin of the Shirley Temple mocktail?
+The Shirley Temple mocktail was created in the 1930s by a bartender at the Brown Derby restaurant in Hollywood, California, specifically for the child actress Shirley Temple.
What are the main ingredients in a classic Shirley Temple?
+The main ingredients in a classic Shirley Temple are grenadine syrup, orange juice, ginger ale, and a splash of maraschino liqueur (optional).
Can I make variations of the Shirley Temple mocktail?
+Yes, you can experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create variations of the Shirley Temple mocktail, such as adding a splash of cola or using cranberry juice instead of orange juice.
