A Dirty Shirley is simply a Shirley Temple with vodka, so you get that sweet, cherry-red fizz of grenadine and lemon-lime soda with a little grown-up lift. In this version, fresh lime juice joins in to keep every sip bright.
What Is a Dirty Shirley?
A Dirty Shirley is simply a Shirley Temple with vodka, so you get that sweet, cherry-red fizz of grenadine and lemon-lime soda with a little grown-up lift. In this version, fresh lime juice joins in to keep every sip bright. If you love that cherry and grenadine flavor, my Cherry Bomb Shot is a fun cousin.
I, like loads of American kids, spent my childhood drinking Shirley Temples. At every birthday party and restaurant outing, it was the drink deemed acceptable to order, while my folks were busy with Martinis and Old Fashioneds.
The story behind the original is part of the fun. The most popular tale credits a bartender at Chasen’s, though the Brown Derby and the Royal Hawaiian Hotel have claimed it too, and nobody can say for certain. Shirley herself said in a 1986 NPR interview that she had nothing to do with it and found it much too sweet, which makes the splash of lime in this version feel extra fitting. Who first added the vodka is just as much of a mystery, and I think that only adds to its charm.
Dirty Shirley Ingredient Notes
- Vodka: A smooth, mid-range vodka is all you need, so the grenadine and cherries can be the stars. Reach for cherry vodka if you want an extra cherry-forward sip.
- Grenadine: Look for one made with real pomegranate. It tastes fruitier and a little tart, gives the drink its ruby color, and because it is thicker than soda, it sinks to the bottom for pretty layers.
- Soda: Sprite and 7UP are both lovely. Ginger ale gives a softer, slightly spicy sweetness that is closer to the traditional Shirley Temple.
- Fresh lime juice: It brings brightness and balances the sweetness, so the drink never feels cloying.
- Garnish: Maraschino cherries for pure nostalgia, fresh raspberries for a tart pop, or a lime wheel for a little freshness.
Tips for Pretty Layers
Build the drink in a highball glass (my guide to glassware for your home bar has lovely options) filled with ice, since a tall glass and plenty of ice keep the fizz lively. A good jigger makes measuring the vodka and grenadine a breeze. Pour the grenadine slowly down the inside of the glass or over the back of a spoon, and watch it sink for a gorgeous ombre from ruby to clear. Give it a gentle stir just before sipping, or admire it for a moment first!
Making a Dirty Shirley for a Crowd
Hosting friends? Multiply the vodka, grenadine, and lime juice by the number of guests, stir them together in a pitcher, and chill. The base can be mixed ahead of time. When it is time to serve, pour over ice and top each glass with soda so every drink stays bubbly. Keep the soda out of the pitcher, since it loses its sparkle quickly.
Dirty Shirley Variations
- Cherry Dirty Shirley: Swap in cherry vodka and add an extra cherry or two.
- Ginger ale: Use it in place of Sprite for a softer, spicier sweetness.
- Seltzer: Top with sparkling water instead of soda for a lighter, less sweet drink, much like a Sea Breeze in spirit.
- Gin: Try gin in place of vodka for a gentle botanical twist.
- Alcohol-free: Leave out the vodka for a classic Shirley Temple, so friends who skip alcohol can join the fun. Another easy, fruity vodka drink to try next is the Vodka Sunrise.
Why Lush Life Loves It
I have a soft spot for anything that does not take itself too seriously, and the Dirty Shirley fits the bill beautifully. It reminds me that sometimes the best drinks are the ones meant to be enjoyed without overthinking them. It also brings back every birthday party table of my childhood, and now I get to add the vodka!
Dirty Shirley FAQs
What is the difference between a Shirley Temple and a Dirty Shirley? A Shirley Temple is alcohol free, made with grenadine and soda. A Dirty Shirley adds vodka, and in this recipe a squeeze of fresh lime juice too.
What soda is best in a Dirty Shirley? Sprite or 7UP for a crisp lemon-lime sparkle, or ginger ale for a softer, spicier sweetness.
How many calories are in a Dirty Shirley? The recipe card lists about 293 calories per drink. Topping with seltzer instead of soda takes out the sugar the soda would add.
Can I use flavored vodka? Absolutely! Cherry vodka is the natural fit.
If you love easy vodka drinks, try the Sea Breeze, the Vodka Sunrise, or the playful Pink Panties next. And if you adore that cherry and grenadine flavor, my Cherry Bomb Shot is a fun cousin.
Why Lush Life Loves It
I have a soft spot for anything that does not take itself too seriously, and the Dirty Shirley fits the bill beautifully. It reminds me that sometimes the best drinks are the ones meant to be enjoyed without overthinking them. It also brings back every birthday party table of my childhood, and now I get to add the vodka!
Here is the recipe
Dirty Shirley
Ingredients
- 2.5 oz Vodka
- 1 oz Grenadine
- 1 oz Fresh lime juice
- 4 oz Sprite or 7up
- Garnish with lime cherries or raspberries
Instructions
- Fill a glass with ice
- Add vodka
- Top up with soda
- Slowly drizzle the grenadine in so it sinks to the bottom
- Add the lime, cherries or raspberries