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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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
