Dirty Shirley Drink Recipe blends vodka, grenadine, lemon lime soda, and cherries for a bright, sweet cocktail full of flavor.
This delicious Dirty Shirley Drink Recipe brings a playful balance of sweetness and fizz that feels cheerful and refreshing.
I decided to make this Dirty Shirley after seeing it prepared in a lively bar scene, which inspired me deeply. Now I will demonstrate each step clearly to create this fun, colourful drink.
Why Peoples Like Dirty Shirley Drink Recipe?
People like the Dirty Shirley Drink Recipe because it delivers a playful mix of sweetness and sparkle that feels both nostalgic and exciting.
The combination of vodka, grenadine, and lemon-lime soda creates a lively taste that stands out in any gathering.
Its bright colour and simple preparation attract many who enjoy cheerful, easygoing drinks. The maraschino cherry on top adds a fun finish that makes every sip memorable and satisfying for anyone who loves vibrant flavours.
How To Prepare Dirty Shirley Drink Recipe?
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Course: Beverage / Cocktail
Cuisine: American
Difficulty: Easy
Yield: 1 serving
Kitchen Utensils
- Cocktail glass (highball or tall glass)
- Cocktail shaker (optional)
- Bar spoon or stirrer
- Jigger or measuring tool
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka
- ¾ oz grenadine syrup
- 4 oz lemon lime soda or ginger ale
- ½ oz fresh lime or lemon juice
- Ice cubes, as needed
- 1–2 maraschino cherries, for garnish
How To Make Dirty Shirley Drink Recipe?
1. Fill The Glass:
Add ice cubes to a tall glass until it’s roughly three-quarters full.
2. Add The Alcohol:
Pour in the vodka, followed by the grenadine.
3. Mix And Top It Up:
Fill the rest of the glass with lemon lime soda or ginger ale, then stir gently to blend everything together.
4. Optional Touch:
Squeeze in a bit of fresh lime or lemon juice for a bright, tangy kick.
5. Garnish And Serve:
Drop in a couple of maraschino cherries, add a straw, and enjoy right away.
Nutrition Facts Per Serving
| Nutrition | Amounts |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Sugars | 20 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
| Sodium | 10 mg |
| Alcohol Content (ABV) | 12% |
Dirty Shirley Drink Recipe
The Dirty Shirley Drink Recipe is a lively and nostalgic cocktail that transforms the childhood favourite Shirley Temple into an adult indulgence.
Its speciality lies in the perfect mix of vodka, grenadine, and lemon lime soda, creating a sweet, fruity, and slightly tangy drink with a vibrant red hue.
Garnished with maraschino cherries, it’s simple yet visually stunning. Loved for its playful flavor and easy preparation, the Dirty Shirley stands out as a fun, refreshing cocktail ideal for celebrations or relaxing evenings.

Helpful Tips For Dirty Shirley Drink Recipe
➣ Fill the glass with plenty of ice to keep the drink cold and refreshing.
➣ Choose a smooth, good quality vodka for the best flavor.
➣ Pour grenadine gradually to control the sweetness of the cocktail.
➣ Add a small amount of fresh lime or lemon juice to balance the flavours.
➣ Stir gently to mix the ingredients while keeping the soda fizzy and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
1. Serve in a tall highball or Collins glass for an elegant presentation.
2. Garnish each drink with a maraschino cherry on top for a classic look.
3. Add a colourful cocktail straw to enhance the fun, playful appearance.
4. Pair the drink with light finger foods like fruit skewers or small appetisers.
How To Make Dirty Shirley Drink Recipe Tastier?
Dirty Shirley Drink Recipe becomes tastier when using high-quality vodka and freshly squeezed lemon or lime juice to enhance the flavor.
Adjusting the grenadine amount adds the right level of sweetness, and using chilled lemon lime soda or ginger ale keeps the drink crisp and refreshing.
Adding extra ice cubes helps maintain the cold temperature longer, while garnishing with maraschino cherries creates a visually appealing touch.
Stirring gently ensures all ingredients blend evenly, delivering a balanced, flavourful cocktail in every sip.
Proper Storage
Dirty Shirley Drink Recipe should be stored in a chilled glass or sealed container in the refrigerator if not consumed immediately.
Keep the soda separate from the vodka and grenadine to maintain freshness and carbonation. Ice cubes should be added just before serving to prevent dilution.
Maraschino cherries can be stored in their syrup in a small container. Proper storage ensures the drink stays flavourful, vibrant, and refreshing for later enjoyment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is A Dirty Shirley Drink?
A Dirty Shirley is a cocktail version of the classic Shirley Temple, combining vodka, grenadine, and lemon lime soda, garnished with maraschino cherries.
Can It Be Made Non Alcoholic?
Yes, removing the vodka turns it into a traditional Shirley Temple, keeping the sweet and fizzy flavor.
What Soda Works Best?
Lemon lime soda or ginger ale creates the ideal balance of sweetness and fizz.
How Much Grenadine Should I Use?
Around ¾ ounce per serving creates a bright colour and sweet flavor without overpowering the drink.
Can I Prepare It In Advance?
Store vodka and grenadine together separately, then add soda and ice just before serving to maintain freshness.
What Garnishes Enhance The Drink?
Maraschino cherries and a slice of lime or lemon add flavor and visual appeal.
Conclusion
I truly enjoyed making this easy and delicious Dirty Shirley Drink Recipe. It was simple, refreshing, and full of sweet, vibrant flavor.
I hope you feel inspired to try it yourself it’s quick to prepare and guaranteed to impress. Make it soon, enjoy every sip, and then let me know how delicious it turned out for you.
Cheers to creating and sharing this fun, flavourful Dirty Shirley Drink Recipe!
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Dirty Shirley Drink Recipe
Equipment
- Cocktail glass (highball or tall glass)
- Cocktail shaker (optional)
- Bar spoon or stirrer
- Jigger or measuring tool
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka
- ¾ oz grenadine syrup
- 4 oz lemon lime soda or ginger ale
- ½ oz fresh lime or lemon juice
- Ice cubes as needed
- 1 –2 maraschino cherries for garnish
Instructions
Fill The Glass:
- Add ice cubes to a tall glass until it’s roughly three-quarters full.
Add The Alcohol:
- Pour in the vodka, followed by the grenadine.
Mix And Top It Up:
- Fill the rest of the glass with lemon lime soda or ginger ale, then stir gently to blend everything together.
Optional Touch:
- Squeeze in a bit of fresh lime or lemon juice for a bright, tangy kick.
Garnish And Serve:
- Drop in a couple of maraschino cherries, add a straw, and enjoy right away.
Notes
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180 kcal | Carbohydrates: 22 g | Sugars: 20 g | Fat: 0 g | Protein: 0 g | Sodium: 10 mg | Alcohol Content (ABV): 12%
“Hi, I’m Samia, a passionate recipe creator with 5 years of experience in crafting delicious, unique dishes. My love for cooking has led me to explore a variety of cuisines, combining flavors to create memorable meals for every occasion. Whether it’s a simple weeknight dinner or an elaborate feast, I believe in making every dish special. Join me on my culinary journey as I share easy-to-follow recipes and tips that will inspire your cooking and bring joy to your kitchen!”