Dirty Shirley Cocktail Recipe

If you’ve ever loved the sweet, cherry flavor of a Shirley Temple, you’ll probably get a kick out of its grown-up twist. The Dirty Shirley hangs onto that nostalgic taste but throws in a splash of vodka for a cocktail that’s as easy as it is fun.

This drink gives you a simple way to turn a childhood favorite into a refreshing adult treat.

Honestly, I love how quick it comes together with stuff you’ve probably already got at home. It’s great for casual nights in or whenever you’re craving something bright and fizzy, but don’t want to fuss.

You’ll see exactly how to make it, what it tastes like, and how to keep the balance just right—never too sweet or too strong.

Dirty Shirley Cocktail Recipe

I like this drink because it’s simple, colorful, and honestly a breeze to whip up at home. You just mix vodka, grenadine, and lemon-lime soda for a sweet flavor with a little fizz.

The maraschino cherry on top? It’s a fun touch and brings back some memories.

Equipment

• Highball glass – I always reach for a tall glass to show off that bold red color.
• Bar spoon – This helps me mix gently so I don’t lose those bubbles.
• Jigger or shot glass – I use one to measure the vodka and grenadine, just to keep things balanced.
• Ice scoop or tongs – I like using these to keep the ice clean and slow down melting.
• Cocktail pick – It’s perfect for holding the maraschino cherries.

I keep these tools close before I start mixing. That way, the process feels smooth and the drink stays cold.

Ingredients

• 2 oz vodka – Plain vodka works best for me.
• 1/2 oz grenadine syrup – This brings in the sweetness and color.
• 4–6 oz lemon-lime soda – Sprite or 7Up both do the trick.
• Ice cubes – Fill up the glass.
• 1–2 maraschino cherries – For garnish and a pop of color.
• Optional: A splash of lime juice if I’m feeling like a tangy twist.

I sometimes tweak the grenadine to adjust the sweetness. The soda keeps things light, and the vodka smooths it all out.

Instructions

• Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.
• Pour in vodka using a jigger.
• Add grenadine syrup slowly so it settles at the bottom.
• Top with lemon-lime soda or use ginger ale for a softer flavor.
• Stir gently with a bar spoon—just enough to mix a bit, but not ruin those lovely layers.
• Garnish with maraschino cherries on a cocktail pick.

I serve it right away, while it’s still cold and fizzy. The red at the bottom slowly blends into a nice pink as I drink.

Notes

Sometimes I swap out the lemon-lime soda for ginger ale if I’m in the mood for something less sweet. A splash of lime juice makes it even more refreshing.

When I make a batch for friends, I mix the vodka and grenadine first, then pour soda on top when I serve. That way, the bubbles stay fresh.

If you want a non-alcoholic version, just skip the vodka. You’ve got a classic Shirley Temple—still bright and just as tasty.

Tasting Notes

The Dirty Shirley shows off a bright red color that just looks cheerful in the glass.

Bubbles from the lemon-lime soda dance up, making it seem fresh and light.

With the first sip, I get a mix of sweet grenadine and a bit of tart soda.

The vodka brings a clean bite, balancing out the sweetness but still letting that cherry flavor shine through.

Before each sip, there’s this little hint of fruit in the air.

Honestly, it takes me back to childhood Shirley Temples, only now there’s a grown-up twist.

The drink feels smooth, with just enough fizz on my tongue.

It goes down easy and keeps its refreshing edge the whole way through.

Flavor highlights:

• Sweet cherry and citrus blend
• Light alcohol warmth
• Crisp, refreshing finish

I really like how simple and balanced it is.

It’s sweet, but never heavy—just a fun, easy cocktail to sip on.