Grown-Up Shirley Temple Mocktail Recipe

Get ready to elevate your non-alcoholic drinks arsenal with a revamped take on a classic: the grown-up Shirley Temple mocktail! This beloved old-school mocktail receives a sophisticated makeover thanks to the addition of ginger beer and the vibrant flavor of Cara Cara oranges. 

The beloved Shirley Temple cocktail emerged in the 1930s and was named after the legendary child star herself. ever since, its remained as part of the non-alcoholic mixed drink canon, a standard drink in any bartender's wheelhouse and (alongside the Roy Roger's) the classic "kiddie cocktail."

Now, the question you might be pondering: why do we opt for ginger beer instead of the popular Sprite version you'll often find today? In its earliest iterations, the Shirley Temple was actually made with ginger ale, grenadine and a Maraschino cherry; later versions made lemon-lime soda the go-to base for the drink. Using ginger beer nods to the original roots of the drink and, more importantly, adds a subtle spiciness that perfectly balances the mocktail's sweetness. This gives the drink a more adult flavor and avoids making the drink cloyingly sweet, which can happen when using sodas. 

Cheers to embracing the playful spirit of youth while savoring the sophistication of adulthood! Get ready to sip, savor, and celebrate the best of both worlds.

First on the list is the essential ingredient ginger beer, which brings a delightfully spicy kick to the mocktail. Next, you'll need freshly squeezed orange juice. We favor Cara Cara oranges for this version, which are bursting with a unique, sweet citrus flavor. To add a touch of sweetness and that classic pink hue, don't forget the grenadine syrup. For a visually appealing garnish, save some fresh orange slices and plump Amarena cherries. Lastly, be sure to have plenty of ice on hand to create a refreshing chill.

First, you'll start your drink with a fiery base. Take a tall 12-ounce highball glass and fill it halfway with ice. The ice will keep your drink chilled and provide a satisfying crunch with each sip. Pour in the ginger beer, allowing its effervescence to come to the forefront. The ginger beer adds a delightful spiciness and bubbly playfullness, taking your mocktail to new heights. Watch the bubbles dance and intertwine as you pour, creating a lively spectacle within the glass. 

Now that you have the perfect foundation for your mocktail, it's time to infuse your drink with vibrant, sweet flavors. Add a generous amount of freshly squeezed Cara Cara orange juice, ensuring you capture all the juicy goodness of the fruit. Next, add the grenadine syrup to bring a touch of sweetness and a captivating crimson hue. Make sure to pour gently to maintain the perfect balance of flavors.

With the mocktail beautifully blended, it's time to add a final touch of elegance. Take an orange slice and an Amarena cherry, and skillfully arrange them on a cocktail pick. Place this lovely garnish on the edge of the glass, adding a visual flair and an extra burst of flavor.

With the garnish in place, the stage is set for a genuinely refreshing drinking experience that will make you feel like an all-grown-up child star from the Hollywood golden era. Serve your creation promptly and savor every sip.