Alright, let me just say this right up front: if you love a fun, spooky twist on a classic drink, you’re going to adore this Bloody Shirley Temple! Imagine that nostalgic cherry soda fizz you grew up loving—but with a daring red twist that’s perfect for Halloween parties or just cozy nights watching scary movies. It’s bubbly, sweet, and a little bit sinister-looking, making it both festive and totally kid-friendly. Plus, it’s super simple to toss together, even if you don’t have your fancy bartending tools out. I promise this mocktail will be your go-to when you want something that looks a little creepy but tastes deliciously bright and refreshing. Now, ready to make your Halloween drinks pop? Let’s do this!
Quick Facts
Yield: Serves 2
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
For the Main Dish:
1 cup ginger ale, chilled
1/2 cup lemon-lime soda, chilled
1/4 cup grenadine syrup
2 tbsp fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
Maraschino cherries (for garnish)
Ice cubes
For the Garnish:
Optional: Red sugar or black sanding sugar for glass rims
Optional: A few drops of red food coloring for extra “bloody” effect
How I Make It
Step 1:
Start by chilling your glasses in the fridge or freezer for a few minutes; it makes the drink feel extra refreshing! While they’re cooling, gather your ingredients and grab some ice cubes.
Step 2:
Rim your glasses with a little lime juice and dip them into red or black sanding sugar if you want that spooky, frosted look—it really ups the Halloween vibes!
Step 3:
Fill each glass halfway with ice cubes, then pour in 1/4 cup grenadine syrup. This sweet, ruby-red syrup is what gives the mocktail its signature “bloody” color and flavor.
Step 4:
Next, add the fresh lime juice for a tart brightness that balances out the sweetness.
Step 5:
Combine the chilled ginger ale and lemon-lime soda in a measuring cup or pitcher, then slowly pour it over the grenadine and lime ice mixture. The bubbles will mix gently with the syrup, creating a pretty ombré effect—if you want it more blood red, stir gently.
Step 6:
Pop in a few maraschino cherries for that classic Shirley Temple look but with a creepier, darker twist! If you want to get fancy, add a drop or two of red food coloring to deepen the “bloody” effect, but it’s delicious either way. Serve immediately and enjoy the fizz!
Variations & Tips
Swap ginger ale for sparkling water if you want a lighter drink with less sweetness.
Add a splash of cranberry juice for a tart, deeper red color and extra flavor.
Use fresh lime wedges as garnish for a zesty pinch and a pop of green color.
Try using black cherries for a darker, spookier garnish.
Make a big batch in a punch bowl by multiplying ingredients and serving over ice.
For adults, add a splash of vodka or rum—it’s still a Shirley Temple, just with a kick!
How I Like to Serve It
This Bloody Shirley Temple shines best at Halloween parties, sitting alongside a platter of spooky finger foods and pumpkin treats. It’s perfect for family gatherings where kiddos want to join in on the festive fun but without alcohol. Pop it out during movie night for a refreshing, fun drink that looks as good as it tastes. And hey, it works just as well for any time you want a bright, bubbly drink with a dramatic touch!
Notes
Mocktails are best enjoyed fresh to keep the fizz and vibrant color.
You can prepare grenadine syrup ahead of time if you want to make this from scratch (equal parts pomegranate juice and sugar reduced down).
Closing: This recipe always works because it combines simple, familiar flavors with a fun and spooky twist that never fails to brighten up any Halloween celebration.
