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A Dirty Shirley recipe is an adult version of the classic drink. I’ve been making Shirley temples for so many years but only recently did I think to add vodka – it’s a game changer! This Dirty Shirley Cocktail is now one of my favorites!
My daughter loves Shirley Temples and has one every time we go out. I love them too but sometimes I want a little…something more – and this Dirty Shirley Drink Recipe delivers. It’s a fizzy drink with a shot of vodka – the adult version of that childhood favorite. It’s the perfect drink for really any occasion from a simple dinner to backyard barbecues or home happy hour! This recipe reminds me of my drunken cherries but in drink form – it’s so delicious and easy to make.
Ingredient Notes
- Ginger Ale: You can use ginger ale or lemon lime soda, both work great. There are varying opinions on which is authentic, so use what you like best. Diet soda is great too.
- Grenadine: The main ingredient needed for a classic Shirley Temple. In a pinch you can use the juice from the maraschino cherry jar.
- Vodka: How to make this classic recipe dirty – you could also add gin or tequila. I used plain vodka but flavored would be good too (lime or whipped or even vanilla vodka). Even Rum would be good – it’d be like rum punch.
- Lime Juice: I like adding some fresh lime juice to add a little extra depth to the recipe.
How to make Dirty Shirley Temple
- You can experiment with lemon lime soda and ginger ale to see which you like best.
- I prefer using zero sugar soda since the grenadine is so sweet.
- I love these large ice cube trays – less melting into your drink.
- The lime juice is optional but it adds such a great brightness to the drink.
Expert Tips
- A classic Shirley Temple is made with ginger ale, but it can be sweeter with a lemon lime soda like Sprite, so the choice is yours.
- I call for an oz of grenadine but if that’s too much for you, just add a splash of grenadine instead.
- You can serve this in a highball glass or tall drinking glass or you can make a big batch in a punch bowl for a party.
Dirty Shirley Temple Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 ounce grenadine
- 1 ounce vodka
- 8 ounces ginger ale or lemon lime soda
- Squeeze of quarter of a lime
- Maraschino cherries for garnish
Instructions
- Fill tall glass with ice. Add grenadine then top with soda and a squeeze of a quarter of a lime. Stir.
- Garnish with cherries.
Recipe Notes
- Traditionally, this is made with ginger ale but in recent times lemon lime soda has been used. Use what you prefer.
Very refreshing! Even when on the instructions you forgot to add the vodka.