Kid’s Favourite Shirley Temple Popsicles Recipe

Say hello to summer’s most refreshing (and adorable) frozen treat: Kid’s Favourite Shirley Temple Popsicles! Inspired by the beloved childhood mocktail, these popsicles are packed with juicy citrus, fizzy soda, a swirl of sweet grenadine, and—of course—those classic maraschino cherries. Kids can’t get enough, but don’t be surprised if the grown-ups sneak a few too!

Ingredients You’ll Need

All it takes are a handful of simple, cheery ingredients to capture that old-school soda fountain magic. Each star player in this popsicle recipe brings bold color, bright flavor, or a touch of fun—nothing is wasted, and every layer pops with personality!

• Orange juice: The juicy base ingredient sets the stage with sunshine-bright citrus flavor (fresh-squeezed or store-bought both work wonderfully).
• Lemon-lime soda: Adds the iconic fizziness that makes Shirley Temples so irresistible—7-Up, Sprite, or your personal favorite all fit the bill.
• Grenadine syrup: Swirls in a ruby ribbon of sweet-tart flavor and gives the popsicles that unmistakable pink hue.
• Maraschino cherries: Chopped and scattered inside each mold, these create playful pops of color and a big burst of Shirley Temple nostalgia in every bite.
• Popsicle sticks: The classic finishing touch—don’t forget to place them straight so your popsicles freeze up picture-perfect!

Variations

Don’t hesitate to make these Kid’s Favourite Shirley Temple Popsicles your family’s own signature treat! There are countless ways to adapt the recipe to suit every sweet tooth, dietary need, or splashy summer theme—just mix, match, and get creative.

• Bubbly Twist: Swap lemon-lime soda for ginger ale for a slightly spicier, more grown-up take that still thrills the kids.
• Berry Blast: Mix in a handful of sliced strawberries or raspberries alongside the cherries for extra pops of color and fruitiness.
• Zero Sugar: Use a sugar-free soda and unsweetened juice for a lighter pop that’s still packed with fun and flavor—no one will miss the sugar!
• Mocktail Mix-Up: Replace orange juice with pineapple juice for a tropical spin, or add a splash of lime juice for extra tang.

How to Make Kid’s Favourite Shirley Temple Popsicles

Step 1: Mix the Juices and Soda

Start by gently combining the orange juice and lemon-lime soda in a large bowl or pitcher. Take it slow so you don’t lose all those fizzy bubbles—just a few quick stirs to bring them together. The citrusy aroma will instantly make the kitchen smell like summer vacation!

Step 2: Pour and Swirl in the Grenadine

Carefully pour the orange juice–soda mixture into your popsicle molds, filling each about three-quarters full. This leaves just enough room for everything to expand in the freezer. Next, drizzle a teaspoon of grenadine into each mold—don’t stir it in, just let it swirl naturally for that pretty sunrise effect.

Step 3: Add Maraschino Cherries

Drain the maraschino cherries, slice them in half, and drop a few pieces into each mold. The cherries settle throughout the popsicle, so every bite has a little juicy treasure inside. If you have eager helpers, kids will love pitching in for this part!

Step 4: Freeze Overnight

Secure the popsicle mold lids and insert a stick into each slot. Pop the whole tray in the freezer and let your Kid’s Favourite Shirley Temple Popsicles chill overnight. Try not to peek—patience is worth it for those perfectly frozen pops!

Step 5: Unmold and Enjoy

When it’s time to eat, simply run the bottom of the molds under warm water for a few seconds—this helps the popsicles slide out smoothly and keeps them from breaking. Transfer to an airtight container or zip-top bag for easy grab-and-go snacking all week.

How to Serve Kid’s Favourite Shirley Temple Popsicles

Garnishes

If you want to take presentation to the next level, roll the popsicles in a shallow dish of sparkling sugar or tiny sprinkles right after unmolding. Or, serve them in a tall glass with an extra cherry or orange slice perched on the rim for vintage soda fountain flair. Every bite should feel like a party!

Side Dishes

Pair your Kid’s Favourite Shirley Temple Popsicles with summertime classics like fresh fruit kabobs, mini sandwiches, or popcorn for a full-on backyard adventure. They also make the perfect cooling treat after spicy BBQ or as a playful “dessert drink” at birthday parties.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking popsicles in a big chilled bowl filled with crushed ice, or arrange them upright in colorful jars for a make-your-own-pop stand. For a movie night, set them in individual cups with striped paper straws poking out—just like the original Shirley Temple mocktail experience!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your popsicles are fully frozen and released from the molds, stash them in an airtight container or freezer bag to keep them at their best. Separate layers with parchment or wax paper if needed—this prevents sticking, and everyone gets a perfect, whole pop every time.

Freezing

Kid’s Favourite Shirley Temple Popsicles keep beautifully in the freezer for up to 2 months, so you can make a batch ahead and always have a treat on hand for sunny days or surprise guests. The flavor and color stay vibrant—just don’t leave them uncovered or they might absorb freezer smells.

Reheating

No reheating required here—just enjoy straight from the freezer! If the pops are a bit too frosty, let them sit at room temperature for 2–3 minutes for a perfect, soft ‘n’ icy bite. They’ll taste just like the classic drink, in frozen form.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

There’s just something extra special about making Kid’s Favourite Shirley Temple Popsicles—whether it’s the bright colors, the fizzy fun, or the smiles all around the table. I hope you make a batch soon and watch them disappear on the first hot afternoon. Let the happy memories (and cherry-stained grins) begin!

Print