Go Back
–+ servings

Holiday Shirley Temple Mocktail

Every holiday party needs a show-stopping drink that everyone can enjoy! This Holiday Shirley Temple takes the nostalgic classic and gives it a Christmas makeover. We’ve swapped the standard pink hue for a deep ruby red using a splash of tart cranberry juice and garnished it with a "snowy" sugar rim and fresh rosemary. It’s fizzy, sweet-tart, and looks absolutely magical on your holiday table. Perfect for kids, moms-to-be, or anyone skipping the alcohol this year!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Course Drinks, homemade mocktails
Cuisine American
Servings 2 drinks

Equipment

  • Highball Glasses (Tall glasses show off the bubbles best)
  • Cocktail Spoon (For gently stirring)
  • Small Plate (For the rimming sugar)

Ingredients
  

For the Rim (The "Snow"):

  • 1 tbsp honey or simple syrup
  • 2 tbsp coarse sparkling sugar or crushed candy canes

For the Drink:

  • 1 ½ cups Ginger Ale chilled
  • 2 oz 100% Cranberry Juice unsweetened prefers, but cocktail juice works
  • 2 tbsp Grenadine syrup
  • 1/2 lime juiced (about 1 tbsp)
  • Ice cubes crushed ice is best for that retro vibe

For the Garnish:

  • 2 sprigs fresh Rosemary
  • 4-6 Maraschino cherries
  • Optional: Sugared cranberries

Instructions
 

  • Rim the Glass: Pour the coarse sugar onto a small plate. Dip the rim of your highball glasses into honey (or rub with a lime wedge), then dip into the sugar to coat the rim. Set aside.
  • Ice It Up: Fill the glasses to the top with ice. Pro Tip: Use crushed ice if you want it to feel like a restaurant drink.
  • The Base: Pour the Ginger Ale into the glasses, filling them about 3/4 full.
  • The Holiday Color: Add the cranberry juice and fresh lime juice. Give it a very gentle stir.
  • The Ombré Effect: Slowly pour 1 tablespoon of grenadine into each glass. Pour it right over the ice or the back of a spoon so it sinks to the bottom, creating a beautiful red gradient.
  • Garnish: Smack the rosemary sprig against your hand (this releases the pine scent) and place it in the drink. Top with maraschino cherries and serve immediately!

Notes

  • Make it "Dirty": For an adult version, add 1.5 oz of vodka or white rum before adding the ginger ale.
  • Pitcher Version: To make a batch for a party, combine 1 liter of Ginger Ale, 1 cup Cranberry Juice, and 1/2 cup Grenadine in a punch bowl. Add ice and lime slices just before serving to keep it fizzy.
  • Grenadine Tip: Standard red dye grenadine works for the color, but for the best flavor, look for "Real Grenadine" made with actual pomegranates (or make your own!).
Keyword christmas mocktail, holiday shirley temple, kids christmas drink, Shirley Temple drink
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!