A playful, adult spin on the classic Shirley Temple—this sparkling cherry cocktail adds vodka (optional) to sweet cherry syrup and fizzy soda for a fun and sophisticated twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Nostalgic yet grown-up: It captures the charm of the childhood favorite with a boozy twist.
Effervescent delight: Sparkling soda gives it a refreshing fizz, ideal for celebrations.
Customizable sweetness: Use homemade cherry syrup or bottled grenadine to adjust the flavor.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 oz cherry syrup or grenadine
4 oz lemon-lime soda or sparkling water
1 ½–2 oz vodka (optional)
Ice cubes
Maraschino cherries and lemon twist (for garnish)

directions

Fill a highball glass with ice.
Pour in cherry syrup or grenadine.
Add vodka if using.
Top with lemon-lime soda or sparkling water.
Gently stir to combine.
Garnish with maraschino cherries and a lemon twist. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 1 cocktail (multiply ingredients for more)
Prep time: 2 minutes
Total time: 2 minutes

Variations

Virgin version: Omit vodka for a non-alcoholic, kid-friendly drink (Shirley Temple).
Deeper cherry flavor: Use sparkling cherry soda or cherry-flavored sparkling water.
Citrus twist: Add a splash of orange juice or swap lemon-lime soda for ginger ale.
Herbal note: Muddle a sprig of mint or basil for a fresh herbal accent.
Bubbly upgrade: Use prosecco or champagne instead of soda for an elegant version.

storage/reheating

Pre-batched batch: Combine cherry syrup and vodka (if used) in advance; cover and store in the fridge up to 24 hours. Add ice and soda just before serving.
Leftover cocktail: Best enjoyed fresh—refrigerate for up to 2 hours; soda will lose carbonation so top with fresh soda before drinking.

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade cherry syrup?

Yes—homemade syrup adds fresh flavor. Use it in a 1:1 ratio in place of grenadine.

2. What vodka works best?

A smooth, clean-tasting vodka—any mid-range brand works well.

3. Can I make a pitcher?

Absolutely—multiply ingredients (except soda), stir, refrigerate, and add soda just before serving.

4. Is it too sweet?

Adjust sweetness by reducing syrup or using diet soda or sparkling water.

5. What glassware is ideal?

A highball or Collins glass showcases the bubbles and color best.

6. How do I avoid soda fizzing over?

Add soda slowly down the side of the glass to minimize overflow.

7. Can I garnish differently?

Try orange wheels, lime wedges, or fresh cherries for a visual twist.

8. Can I use other mixers?

Yes—ginger ale, club soda, or flavored tonics work well with cherry syrup.

9. Can I prepare without alcohol?

Yes—just omit vodka. The flavor is still fun and fizzy.

10. How long does it last?

Best fresh—prepped mix can stay refrigerated for up to 24 hours; add soda before serving.

Conclusion

The Dirty Shirley Sparkling Cherry Cocktail offers a delightful mix of nostalgia and sparkle with a grown-up twist. Quick to make, easy to customize, and visually charming, it’s perfect for parties or anytime you crave something fun and refreshing.