📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol None
Alcohol 0%
Calories 120 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 30g
Prep time 2 minutes
Looking to craft the perfect Kiddie cocktail or simply in the mood for a refreshing drink? The Kiddie cocktail is a vibrant, non-alcoholic beverage that tells a story with every sip, from its rich history to its bright and cheerful presentation. In this article, we’ll explore its flavor profile, ingredients, and how to serve it, offering you a sensory journey through the art of cocktail making. Let’s dive in together and uncover the essence of the Kiddie cocktail. ⬇️
History
The Kiddie cocktail, also known as the Shirley Temple, was created in the 1930s as a non-alcoholic drink for children dining in a restaurant with their parents. It allowed kids to feel included in the adult dining experience with a special drink of their own. Its name and popularity soared when it became associated with the child actress Shirley Temple.
- Originally, the Kiddie cocktail was designed to mimic the color and sparkle of alcoholic beverages without the alcohol.
- It’s said that the famous child actress Shirley Temple disliked the drink named after her, calling it too sweet.
- The drink gained popularity during Prohibition and continues to be a favorite among children and adults alike.
The taste of a Kiddie?
A Kiddie cocktail tastes sweet, with a fruity punch that comes from its combination of ginger ale, grenadine, and orange juice. It’s like drinking a fizzy, cherry-flavored sunshine that makes every sip a delightful experience.
I personally love drinking Kiddies because they’re incredibly refreshing, especially on a hot day.
Interesting facts about Kiddie
- The original Kiddie cocktail recipe did not include orange juice; this was a later addition to add more depth to the flavor.
- In some regions, a Kiddie cocktail is made with lemon-lime soda instead of ginger ale for a slightly different taste.
- Despite its association with Shirley Temple, there is no definitive evidence that the drink was actually created for her.
Ingredients 📃
- Ginger ale: 4 oz (120ml)
- Grenadine: 1 oz (30ml)
- Orange juice: 2 oz (60ml)
- Ice cubes
- Maraschino cherry: for garnish
- Orange slice: for garnish
A highball glass is the best type of glass to use when serving a Kiddie because its tall shape showcases the drink’s vibrant layers beautifully. An alternative could be a mason jar for a more casual, fun presentation, which still allows the colors to shine through.
Recipe. How to make Kiddie 🍹
- Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.
- Mix ginger ale, grenadine, and orange juice in the glass.
- Garnish with a maraschino cherry and an orange slice.
- Stir well and serve immediately.
Kiddie cocktails, while delicious, can be high in sugar. To make a healthier version, consider using natural sweeteners or a reduced amount of grenadine. Though high in sugar, the orange juice in a Kiddie does provide some vitamin C, offering a small nutritional benefit amidst the sweetness.
Food Pairings
Certain foods complement the flavors of a Kiddie, enhancing the overall dining experience. Here are some perfect pairings:
Chicken Nuggets
The sweet and tangy flavor of a Kiddie pairs wonderfully with the crispy, savory taste of chicken nuggets, making for a delightful contrast.
Fruit Salad
A fruit salad, with its mix of sweet and tart flavors, matches well with the sweetness of the Kiddie, creating a refreshing and balanced meal or snack.
Pizza
The fizzy, sweet nature of the Kiddie offers a nice palate cleanser between bites of pizza, whether it’s a classic Margherita or a pepperoni feast.
I really enjoy the taste of Kiddies—the cool fizz and sweet cherry make it a perfect drink for sipping under the sun.
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Bartender Advice
- Chill your glass beforehand to keep the drink cooler for longer.
- Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of grenadine according to taste.
- For a fun twist, add a splash of soda water to introduce more fizz to your Kiddie.
Now that you’ve mastered the classic Kiddie, in the sections below we’ll shake things up by showing the customizable elements you can alter and introducing a range of exciting variations to try in your next concoction.
What you could change in Kiddie
- Ginger ale: Can be replaced with soda water for a less sweet version.
- Grenadine: Adjust the amount to control the sweetness and color intensity.
- Orange juice: Try different fruit juices like pineapple or apple for a new flavor profile.
Kiddie Variations
Sparkling Pineapple Kiddie
- Ingredients: Replace orange juice with pineapple juice.
- Recipe: Follow the classic recipe, substituting pineapple juice for orange juice.
Berry Blast Kiddie
- Ingredients: Add a splash of raspberry syrup.
- Recipe: Mix in raspberry syrup along with the other ingredients for a berry twist.
Green Apple Kiddie
- Ingredients: Use green apple soda instead of ginger ale.
- Recipe: Combine green apple soda with grenadine and skip the orange juice.
For those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages, the Virgin Kiddie is a delightful choice. Simply follow the classic recipe without any modifications—it’s naturally alcohol-free and full of flavor.
Q&A
Can I make a Kiddie cocktail ahead of time?
Yes, but for the best taste, add the ginger ale right before serving to maintain its fizziness.
Is the Kiddie cocktail only for children?
Not at all! Adults can enjoy it too, especially those seeking a sweet, non-alcoholic beverage.
Can I use fresh fruit juice in a Kiddie?
Absolutely, using fresh juice can elevate the flavor and make it even more refreshing.
How can I make my Kiddie less sweet?
Reduce the amount of grenadine or substitute some of the ginger ale with soda water.
What are some fun garnishes for a Kiddie?
Aside from the classic cherry and orange slice, try adding a twist of lime or a sprig of mint for a fresh look.
Can I add alcohol to a Kiddie to make it an adult cocktail?
Yes, adding a splash of vodka or rum can transform it into an adult-friendly version. Remember to enjoy responsibly.
