
The Dirty Shirley is an adult twist on the classic Shirley Temple mocktail. It is a playful and nostalgic cocktail that has been around since the 1930s or '40s. The drink is typically made with vodka, grenadine, lemon-lime soda, and garnished with a maraschino cherry. The dirty version is commonly made with lemon-lime soda such as Sprite or 7Up, and sometimes with a dash of orange juice. The Dirty Shirley is a versatile drink that can be tailored to individual tastes, making it a popular choice for festive gatherings and summer holidays.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type | Cocktail |
| Alcohol | Vodka |
| ABV | 5.9% |
| Calories | 253kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 31g |
| Protein | 1g |
| Sodium | 20mg |
| Sugar | 25g |
| Variations | Cherry Vanilla, Extra Dirty |
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What You'll Learn

The Dirty Shirley is an adult version of the Shirley Temple
The Dirty Shirley is an adult take on the classic Shirley Temple drink. The original Shirley Temple was created in the 1930s or '40s and was a non-alcoholic beverage featuring lemon-lime soda, grenadine, ginger, and a maraschino cherry. The Dirty Shirley, on the other hand, introduces alcohol into the mix, making it a playful and nostalgic cocktail for adults.
The Dirty Shirley typically includes vodka, grenadine, lemon-lime soda, and maraschino cherries. The vodka can be plain or cherry-flavoured, with brands like Smirnoff, Three Olives, Svedka, Pinnacle, UV, and Skyy offering suitable options. The grenadine, a deep red, pomegranate-flavoured syrup, adds sweetness to the cocktail, and its amount can be adjusted to taste. As for the soda, Sprite, 7-Up, or similar drinks are commonly used, although some prefer club soda or ginger ale for a less sweet version. Finally, the drink is garnished with a classic maraschino cherry, or a more sophisticated variety like Luxardo or Amarena cherries.
The result is a festive, crowd-pleasing cocktail that is particularly popular during the summer and holiday gatherings. It offers a delightful combination of fruity flavours with a kick from the vodka, providing a fun twist on the nostalgic Shirley Temple. The Dirty Shirley is also versatile, as it can be made in large batches, allowing drinking adults to add their own vodka while others can enjoy the non-alcoholic version, the Shirley Temple.
Some variations of the Dirty Shirley include additional ingredients to enhance the flavour. For instance, lime juice and cherry juice can be added to balance the sweetness and bring a tartness that complements the drink's essential qualities. Another variation is the Cherry Vanilla Dirty Shirley, which combines the sweetness of organic cherry juice with the creamy allure of vanilla, creating a unique flavour profile that is both nostalgic and bold.
The Dirty Shirley has become a popular choice for adults, offering a fun and nostalgic drinking experience with a playful twist on a childhood favourite. Whether enjoyed as a simple, anytime cocktail or served at festive gatherings, the Dirty Shirley is a delightful and crowd-pleasing option.
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It contains vodka
The Dirty Shirley is an adult version of the classic Shirley Temple drink. It is a playful riff on the original, non-alcoholic beverage, commonly served to children. The Dirty Shirley is a cocktail that contains vodka.
The drink's recipe includes four ingredients: vodka, grenadine, lemon-lime soda, and maraschino cherries. The first three ingredients are combined and mixed, and the cocktail is then topped with a cherry. The Dirty Shirley is a syrupy-sweet, nostalgic drink for adults. It is a simple, anytime-anywhere kind of cocktail.
Vodka is the key alcoholic ingredient in a Dirty Shirley. You can use plain vodka or opt for a cherry-flavoured brand such as Smirnoff, Three Olives, Svedka, Pinnacle, UV, or Skyy. The choice is yours, and you can experiment with different brands to find your preferred taste. The better the vodka, the better your Dirty Shirley will be.
For those who enjoy a more intense cherry flavour, cherry vodka is an excellent option. It enhances the overall cherry taste of the cocktail, creating a unique and indulgent experience. The use of cherry vodka adds a playful twist to the traditional Dirty Shirley, making it even more delightful for those with a sweet tooth.
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It's topped with a maraschino cherry
The Dirty Shirley is an adult version of the classic Shirley Temple drink, which is believed to have debuted in the 1930s or '40s. The original non-alcoholic version was topped with a maraschino cherry, and the Dirty Shirley retains this garnish.
The Dirty Shirley is a playful riff on the original, with a boozy bite. It is typically made with vodka, grenadine, lemon-lime soda, and maraschino cherries, and is often garnished with a cherry on top. The cocktail is a nostalgic and festive drink, perfect for gatherings and celebrations.
The cherry on top adds a final touch of sweetness and a pop of colour. While the classic maraschino cherry is a popular choice, some prefer to use higher-quality cherries, such as Luxardo or Amarena cherries, for a more sophisticated version. The cherry is an essential part of the Dirty Shirley's signature look and taste.
The cherry garnish is not just a delicious addition but also a nod to the drink's history. The original Shirley Temple drink, created in the 1930s, was topped with a maraschino cherry, and the Dirty Shirley retains this traditional element. It is a fun and festive touch that adds to the overall experience of enjoying this playful cocktail.
The Dirty Shirley is a unique and whimsical cocktail, and the cherry on top is a delightful finishing touch. It adds a touch of sweetness, a vibrant colour, and a playful element to this nostalgic drink. Whether it's a classic or sophisticated cherry, the garnish is a signature part of the Dirty Shirley experience.
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It's a nostalgic drink
The Dirty Shirley is a nostalgic drink that evokes memories of a time when a bright red glass of sugary bubbles was the height of festivity. It is an adult twist on the classic Shirley Temple mocktail, which was reportedly created in the 1930s at Chasen's, a Beverly Hills restaurant, for child actress Shirley Temple. The original non-alcoholic version, made with lemon-lime soda, grenadine, and a maraschino cherry, has been a favourite for many, and now the grown-up version is here to bring back those childhood memories with a kick.
The Dirty Shirley is more than just a drink; it's a journey back in time. It is a playful riff on the original, adding a dash of vodka to the sweet and bubbly mix. This new version is perfect for those who want to relive their childhood while enjoying a festive and nostalgic cocktail. The drink's bright red colour and festive fizz make it ideal for holiday gatherings, backyard barbecues, and summer evenings. It's a delightful treat for adults who want to indulge in a little nostalgia while enjoying a tasty tipple.
The beauty of the Dirty Shirley is its versatility. It can be tailored to suit different tastes and occasions. For those who prefer a stronger cherry flavour, cherry vodka or a splash of cherry juice can be added. For a more traditional take, ginger ale can be used instead of lemon-lime soda, and a dash of orange juice can be added for a unique twist. The level of sweetness can also be adjusted by varying the amount of grenadine used.
The Dirty Shirley has become a popular choice for festive and nostalgic gatherings, bringing a touch of whimsy and playfulness to any occasion. It's a drink that invites experimentation and creativity, allowing mixologists and home bartenders alike to put their unique spin on it. Whether it's served in a sophisticated cocktail bar or at a backyard barbecue, the Dirty Shirley is sure to evoke fond memories and create new, memorable experiences.
The Dirty Shirley is more than just a cocktail; it's a delightful trip down memory lane. It captures the playful spirit of the original Shirley Temple while adding a touch of grown-up sophistication. So, whether you're indulging in a cheeky mid-week treat or toasting at a holiday gathering, the Dirty Shirley is the perfect choice for those seeking a nostalgic escape.
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It's a playful riff on the original
The Dirty Shirley is a playful riff on the original Shirley Temple, a mocktail allegedly created in the 1930s at Chasen's, a Beverly Hills restaurant, for child actress Shirley Temple. The original drink was made with lemon-lime soda, grenadine, ginger, and a maraschino cherry. The Dirty Shirley takes this classic combination and adds a kick of vodka, elevating it to an adult beverage.
The result is a fun and festive cocktail that evokes nostalgia and childhood memories. It is perfect for gatherings where both adults and children are present, as the non-alcoholic version, the Shirley Temple, can be served to the younger crowd, while the adults can enjoy the "dirty" variation. The drink's bright red colour and fizzy texture add to its playful nature, making it a delightful and whimsical escape for those seeking a unique taste experience.
The Dirty Shirley also allows for customisation to suit individual tastes. While the classic recipe calls for vodka, grenadine, lemon-lime soda, and a maraschino cherry, some variations include using cherry vodka for an extra cherry punch or adding lime juice and unsweetened tart cherry juice to balance out the sweetness. The type of soda can also be experimented with, as some prefer the traditional ginger ale, while others opt for a lemon-lime soda like Sprite or 7Up for a more syrupy-sweet taste.
The versatility of the Dirty Shirley is part of its charm, allowing drinkers to customise their cocktail to their preferred flavour profile. It is a whimsical and playful twist on a classic mocktail, offering a fun and festive drinking experience for adults while retaining the nostalgic essence of the original Shirley Temple. Whether enjoyed on a summer day or at a holiday gathering, the Dirty Shirley is a delightful escape into a world of playful and delightful taste sensations.
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Frequently asked questions
A Dirty Shirley is made with vodka.
A Dirty Shirley contains grenadine, lemon-lime soda, and maraschino cherries.
A Shirley Temple is the non-alcoholic version of the Dirty Shirley.
Any type of vodka will work, but for an extra cherry kick, you can use cherry-flavoured vodka.











































