Dirty Shirley Cocktail Recipe
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Dirty Shirley Cocktail Recipe

Discover the delightful Dirty Shirley Cocktail Recipe, a playful and refreshing twist on the classic Shirley Temple. With a mix of lemon-lime soda, grenadine, vodka, and a splash of cherry juice, this grown-up version will take you back to carefree days with a touch of adult sophistication.

5 min
easy
highball glass

Ingredients

  • 2 ounces of premium vodka
  • 4 ounces of lemon-lime soda
  • 1 ounce of grenadine
  • A splash of cherry juice
  • Maraschino cherries and a lemon wheel for garnish
Garnish: Maraschino cherries and a lemon wheel

Instructions

  1. 1

    Begin by filling a shaker with ice, preparing it for the libation enchantment.

  2. 2

    Add the premium vodka, lemon-lime soda, and grenadine to the shaker, creating the foundation of this delightful concoction.

  3. 3

    Give it a playful shake, ensuring the flavors intermingle like old friends reuniting.

  4. 4

    Strain the mixture into a chilled highball glass, capturing the essence of carefree moments with every pour.

  5. 5

    Add a splash of cherry juice, elevating the flavors with a hint of cherry sweetness.

  6. 6

    Garnish with maraschino cherries and a lemon wheel, creating an eye-catching presentation that sparks joy.

Pro Tip

For an extra burst of flavor, try using a cherry-flavored vodka or adding a splash of fresh lime juice to balance the sweetness. Always use fresh ice to keep the drink crisp and refreshing.

The Story Behind the Dirty Shirley Cocktail Recipe

The Dirty Shirley is a playful twist on the classic Shirley Temple, a non-alcoholic drink that has been a favorite among children since the 1930s. This grown-up version adds vodka to the mix, transforming it into a cocktail that evokes nostalgia while offering a sophisticated edge. It's believed to have gained popularity in the early 2000s as a fun, sweet option for those looking to relive their childhood with a boozy twist.

What Pairs Well

Food Pairings

  • 🍽️
    Cheese platter

    The creamy and savory flavors of a cheese platter complement the sweet and fruity notes of the Dirty Shirley.

  • 🍽️
    BBQ sliders

    The smoky and tangy flavors of BBQ sliders pair perfectly with the sweet and refreshing taste of the cocktail.

  • 🍽️
    Chocolate-covered strawberries

    The rich chocolate and juicy strawberries enhance the fruity sweetness of the Dirty Shirley.

Perfect For

  • Bachelorette weekend in Vegas

    This fun and fruity cocktail is perfect for a lively celebration with friends.

  • Super Bowl Sunday

    A sweet and refreshing drink to enjoy while cheering on your favorite team.

  • Recovering from a bad date

    A comforting and nostalgic drink to lift your spirits after a rough night.

  • Celebrating a promotion

    Toast to your success with this playful and sophisticated cocktail.

Fun Facts

  • The original Shirley Temple was named after the famous child actress and was created to provide a non-alcoholic option for her at Hollywood events.

  • Grenadine, a key ingredient in the Dirty Shirley, is traditionally made from pomegranate juice, giving it a rich, fruity flavor.

  • The Dirty Shirley is often seen as a 'gateway' cocktail for those new to mixed drinks, thanks to its sweet and approachable taste.

Make This Drink with Tom or Tina

Watch our bartenders mix it up with fun animations!