Dirty Shirley

Bright and colorful, sweet with just a hint of booze, the Dirty Shirley Temple is quickly gaining popularity with cocktail drinkers. And who can blame them? It’s a boozy version of that nostalgic beverage so many of us grew up with—and let’s be honest, what too-sweet mocktail can’t be improved with a shot of vodka?

Read on for tips on making this easy, simply-stirred cocktail at home. If you’d like another variation, take a look at our Shirley Temple mimosas. And if you’re not feeling the booze after all, take a look at the tried-and-true classic Shirley Temple itself. 

What makes it dirty? 

In short—the alcohol! Basically, we’ve just taken a classic Shirley Temple drink recipe and added a few ounces of vodka to it for that alcoholic kick.

Aren’t Shirley Temples made with ginger ale? And what’s the lime juice doing in there? 

While a classic Shirley Temple can be made with ginger ale or lemon-lime soda, Dirty Shirley Temples are most often made with lemon-lime soda. We’re throwing in some fresh lime juice to accent the flavor of the soda and add an extra zing that helps balance out that sweet grenadine.

I don’t have a jigger or a bar spoon! Can I still make this cocktail? 

Absolutely! You do not need any fancy bar tools to make this cocktail (or most others, for that matter!). All you need is a 16-ounce glass, a set of basic measuring spoons, and something long to stir with, like a metal straw or even a long blunt butter knife. When it comes to measuring out liquids for mixed drinks, just remember: one ounce equals two tablespoons.  

Made this cocktail? Let us know what you thought in the comments below!