Dirty Shirley: Spiked Shirley Temple Cocktail Recipe

Description

The Dirty Shirley Temple is an adult take on the classic Shirley Temple: the same bright, cherry-forward flavor but with a spirited kick. This version keeps the ginger ale and the nostalgic cherries, and elevates the drink with vanilla vodka and plain moonshine. The key is preparing maraschino cherries by soaking them in moonshine for at least two days so they pick up depth and heat while retaining the familiar sweetness. The result is a playful, refreshing cocktail that nods to childhood memories while clearly intended for grown-ups.

Ingredients

• 1 oz vanilla vodka
• 1 oz plain moonshine
• 1/2 oz grenadine
• Ginger ale, to top
• A jar of maraschino cherries (for soaking)
• A jar of plain moonshine for soaking (you will have leftover)
• Ice
• Tall glass for serving

Notes: Use plain, unflavored moonshine for soaking the cherries and for the cocktail itself; flavored moonshines can overwhelm the balance. If you prefer a milder drink, swap the moonshine for additional vodka or reduce the moonshine quantity.

Instructions

1. Prepare the cherries: Open a jar of maraschino cherries and pour out the commercial cherry syrup. Place the cherries in a fine mesh strainer and let excess syrup drain. Return the cherries to the jar.
2. Add moonshine to the jar of cherries until they are fully submerged. Seal the jar and refrigerate. Let the cherries soak for at least 2 days so they absorb the moonshine and develop richer flavor.
3. When you are ready to mix a drink, fill a tall glass with ice.
4. Pour in 1 oz vanilla vodka and 1 oz plain moonshine.
5. Add 1/2 oz grenadine for color and sweet-tart balance.
6. Top the glass with ginger ale to taste, gently stir to combine and avoid flattening the carbonation.
7. Garnish generously with the moonshine-soaked maraschino cherries. The soaked cherries add aroma, flavor and a boozy finish when eaten.

Tip: Adjust the grenadine if you prefer a drier or sweeter drink. For a brighter citrus lift, a small squeeze of fresh lime can be added. Serve immediately while the ginger ale is fizzy.

Prep & Serving Details

Prep Time: 5 mins (plus at least 2 days for soaking)

Cook Time: 0 mins

Category: Cocktail

The most time-consuming part of this recipe is waiting for the cherries to soak. Once they are ready, the cocktail itself comes together in minutes — pour, top, garnish, enjoy. The moonshine-soaked cherries can be kept refrigerated for several weeks and used to elevate other drinks, desserts or even ice cream.

Variations & Safety

Variations: If moonshine is not available or you prefer a subtler spirit, use plain vodka or dark rum to soak the cherries. For extra warmth, substitute a cinnamon-flavored spirit in the soaking jar, but avoid flavored moonshines in the cocktail itself unless you want the flavor to dominate. To create a non-alcoholic version for guests, skip the spirits and use cherry syrup with a splash of cherry juice, retaining the ginger ale for fizz.

Safety note: This is an alcoholic beverage. Consume responsibly and do not serve to minors. Be mindful of the alcohol content when sharing with guests since moonshine can be high proof.