Shirley with a side of whipped vodka
A Shirley Temple with a side of whipped vodka.
Explore the history of the original Shirley Temple mocktail from 1930s Hollywood, plus a grown-up version with vodka.
Two nostalgic recipes inspired by a silver screen icon perfect for vintage-style entertaining!
Hollywood 1930’s
Among the grown up glitter was one tiny, tap dancing dynamo stealing the spotlight and hearts alike: Shirley Temple.
She was America’s sweetheart, and soon she’d have a sparkling, cherry-topped drink named in her honor.
The Shirley Temple drink likely started around 1934 or 1935, just as she was becoming a household name.
By that time, she had already appeared in over 20 short films and features, including:
Stand Up and Cheer! (1934) – her big breakthrough role
Baby Take a Bow (1934)
Bright Eyes (1934) – which featured her famous performance of “On the Good Ship Lollipop”
The non-alcoholic drink may have been invented by a bartender at Chasen’s, a restaurant in West Hollywood, California, to serve the young actress. However, other claims to its origin have also been made.
For the grown ups, just add a splash of whipped vodka, (recipe below) give it a gentle stir, and garnish with a cherry on top. In no time, you’ve transformed a starlet’s sip into a glamorous retro cocktail worthy of a night on the town.
The Shirley Temple, named after the child star herself, is still enjoyed by kids and young adults around the world a sweet and sparkling tribute to Hollywood’s golden girl.
Please note: This recipe begins with the classic vintage Shirley Temple and adds whipped cream vodka for a grown-up twist. The alcohol is completely optional.
As always, please enjoy responsibly.
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Shopping List For Both
Fresh lemon juice or concentrated
Grenadine
Simple syrup
Cracked ice
7 up or Ginger Ale
Whipped cream vodka
Equipment
Retro Cocktail Shaker
A delightful and refreshing drink that can be enjoyed as a cocktail or a mocktail.
Its vibrant red hue captures attention, while the combination of 7up and grenadine creates a sweet, fizzy flavor profile.
𝕣𝕖𝕔𝕚𝕡𝕖
🍒 Shirley with a Shot of Whipped Vodka
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Category: Cocktail / Mocktail
Circa: Inspired by 1930s Hollywood
✨ Ingredients
1 oz lemon juice
½ oz grenadine
½ oz sugar syrup (simple syrup)
Cracked ice
7Up or ginger ale
Optional: 1½ oz Smirnoff whipped cream vodka
Optional garnish: Maraschino cherries or fresh orange slices
🥄 Instructions
Add cracked ice to a cocktail shaker.
Pour in the lemon juice, grenadine, and sugar syrup. Shake vigorously.
To turn it into a cocktail, add 1½ oz of whipped cream vodka into the shaker before mixing.
Fill a chilled highball glass halfway with cracked ice.
Strain the mixture into the glass.
Top off with 7Up or ginger ale.
Garnish with cherries or orange slices.
Notes: You can substitute cherry vodka for the whipped cream vodka
Final Drink Size After 7 Up or Ginger Ale
Mocktail version: ~6–7 oz total
Cocktail version: ~7–8.5 oz total
Mocktails: Mocktails are non-alcoholic drinks that can be served on various occasions. They are a great alternative to alcoholic beverages and can be enjoyed by everyone.
The Shirley Temple with vodka recipe can be garnished with a maraschino cherry and a citrus slice, adding a touch of elegance and visual appeal.
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Source:
The original Shirley Temple mocktail first appeared in the 1930s, created for the young actress and served in restaurants and hotels of the era. This post shares that early version, along with a cocktail adaptation inspired by mid-century bar culture. The cocktail rendition is not part of the original historic recipe, but a modern twist added for today’s home entertaining.
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Closing
Whether sipped by adults seeking a nostalgic concoction or by children feeling grown up, this timeless beverage is a charming choice for any occasion. Enjoy!
Sources used: Wikipedia: Shirley Temple
