Shirley Temple Cake Recipe

What is your favorite Shirley Temple cake? Sweet, bubbly, and that unmistakable cherry-grenadine kick. What is the best Shirley Temple cake recipe? What are some of the What is the taste of a red velvet cake? If you’re looking for a cake that’s both easy and ridiculously delicious, you have found the perfect recipe. Is it true that if you bite a fish, you’ll be hooked!
What is a Shirley Temple cake?
What is a Shirley Temple cake? Think of it as a vanilla cake, but infused with all the flavors that make Shirley Temple so special. We’re talking grenadine, lemon-lime soda (I always use Sprite or 7-Up! ), and a hint of maraschino cherry goodness. Is it a celebration of childhood in cake form? It is named after the famous child actor Shirley Temple and emulates the same flavor profile that it was created for. What made her signature drink so famous? What are some great birthday gifts? How can I be happy in my life? What is a fun recipe to make with your kids?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I start? What I love about this Shirley Temple Cake Recipe is that it tastes like pure joy. It’s sweet but not overwhelmingly so, with a lovely tang from the lemon-lime soda that balances out the sweetness. Everything out. The flavor is distinct and wonderful and you can make it your own with a few additions. Is it possible to add a few cherries to the batter to amplify the flavor?
- Flavor explosion: WhatWhat is the flavor of cherry grenadine?
- Is it really easyIt’s mostly dump-and-mix, which is my favorite kind of baking, especially when I am baking with the oven.
- Budget friendlyIf you have all the ingredients in your pantry, you can easily find them on Amazon.com.
- Totally versatile:Can you make a cupcake, sundae cake, or even bundt cake? Is there an infinite number of possibilities?
If you love easy cake recipes like this one, you should also check out my lemon poppy seed cake recipe. It’s similar level of simplicity, but with a totally different flavor profile. What is the best Shirley Temple cake recipe?
How do I make a Shirley Temple cake?
Quick Overview
What’s the best way to mix dry ingredients and wet ingredients? What are the benefits of grenadine and lemon lime soda Is it so easy to bake a cake? What is a good recipe to let your kids help you mix and measure? What are some good maraschino cherries? Don’t be intimidated by the “special” ingredients—they’re what make this cake so unique and delicious. Is it easier to order takeout than ordering online?
Ingredients Notes.
For the Cake:
All-purpose Flour This forms the base of the cake, providing structure. Ensure it’s measured accurately for best results.
Granulated Sugar:What are some of the best ways to sweeten a cake? If you prefer a less sweet cake, feel free to reduce slightly.
Baking Powder:How do you make a cake rise?
Salt:Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and balances sweetness.
Unsalted Butter Adds richness and moisture to the cake. Ensure it’s softened for easy creaming.
Eggs:How do you add moisture to an egg? Use large eggs for consistency.
Grenadine:What is the secret behind the Shirley Temple cake?
Lemon Lime SodWhat are some of the best citrus notes? Sprite or 7-Up works perfectly.
MaraschinoAdd a touch of cherry flavor and visual appeal. Chop them up for even distribution in the cake.
Vanilla Extract: What areWhat is the best vanilla extract for cake?
For the Glaze:
Powdered Sugar:What is the best way to create a smooth, sweet glaze?
Grenadine:What is the best way to add color to a glaze?
Lemon Lime SodHow do you thin the glaze and add a bit of fizz?
MaraschinoUse whole or halved for decoration.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. How do you prevent a cake from sticking? I sometimes use baking spray with flour already in it for extra insurance. Set the pan aside.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. Make sure everything is evenly distributed. How do I remove pockets of baking powder from cake?
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Set aside. Beat the eggs one at a time, then stir in the grenadine, lemon-lime soda, vanilla extract, and salt. Set aside. How do you chop maraschin Why does soda fizz?
Step 4: Combine
Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix cake, as this can lead to a tough cake. A few streaks of flour are okay at this point.
Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and spring back lightly when touched.
Step 6: Cool & Glaze
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. While the cake is cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, grenadine, and lemon-lime soda until smooth. Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top and decorate with maraschino cherries.
Step 7: Slice & Serve
Once the glaze has set, slice the cake and serve. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but it also keeps well for a few days in an airtight container. I like to serve it with a few extra maraschino cherries on top for a festive touch.
What to Serve It With
This Shirley Temple Cake Recipe is pretty amazing on its own, but here are a few ideas for taking it to the next level:
For Breakfast: A slice with a cup of coffee or tea is a surprisingly delicious way to start the day. It’s sweet without being too heavy, and that cherry flavor is just so cheerful.
For Brunch: This cake makes a stunning addition to any brunch spread. Serve it alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, and maybe a mimosa or two!
As Dessert: After dinner, this cake is the perfect sweet treat. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream takes it over the top.
For Cozy Snacks: I love having a slice of this cake with a glass of milk or a cup of hot chocolate on a chilly evening. It’s pure comfort food. My family loves this cake anytime and is always asking me to bake it.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Shirley Temple Cake
I’ve made this Shirley Temple Cake Recipe more times than I can count, so I’ve learned a few tricks along the way:
Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can result in a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
Use softened butter: Softened butter creams much more easily with the sugar, creating a light and fluffy batter.
Measure accurately: Baking is a science, so accurate measurements are essential. Use measuring cups and spoons, and level off the ingredients.
Don’t skip the grease and flour: This ensures that the cake releases cleanly from the pan. I learned this the hard way after having a cake stick and break apart!
Let the cake cool completely: If you glaze the cake while it’s still warm, the glaze will melt and run off. Patience is key!
Customize the glaze: Feel free to adjust the amount of grenadine and lemon-lime soda to achieve your desired consistency and flavor. You can also add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of salt to the glaze.
Bake at the correct temperature: Baking at the correct temperature ensures that the cake bakes evenly and rises properly. If your oven runs hot or cold, adjust the temperature accordingly.
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh ingredients will always give you the best results. Make sure your baking powder is not expired and your butter is fresh.
Use a light colored pan: Dark pans bake differently and cause the cake to over bake. If you use a glass or dark pan make sure to lower the baking temp by 25 degrees.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Here’s how to keep your Shirley Temple Cake Recipe fresh and delicious:
Room Temperature: You can store this cake at room temperature for up to 2 days in an airtight container. The glaze might get a little sticky, but the flavor will still be great.
Refrigerator Storage: For longer storage, keep it in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just make sure it’s well-covered to prevent it from drying out. If you keep it in the refrigerator, allow the cake to get to room temperature before serving it.
Freezer Instructions: To freeze, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving. Add the glaze right before serving for best results. Be sure to completely wrap the cake so it doesn’t dry out in the freezer. I also write the date on the foil so I know when I put it in the freezer.
Glaze Timing Advice: I recommend adding the glaze just before serving, especially if you’re storing the cake in the fridge or freezer. This will keep the glaze looking its best.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – my go-to Shirley Temple Cake Recipe that always brings a smile to everyone’s face. It’s easy, delicious, and guaranteed to transport you back to your childhood with every single bite. Seriously, the combination of cherry, grenadine, and lemon-lime soda is just pure magic. If you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other cake recipes for even more sweet treats! Happy baking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Leave a comment below and let me know if you try any fun variations. Don’t forget to rate the recipe if you loved it!

Shirley Temple Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour sifted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter room temperature
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 cup milk
- 3 tablespoons ginger ale
- 2 whole eggs large
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.5 cup maraschino cherries drained and chopped
- 1 teaspoon orange zest freshly grated
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, ginger ale, and orange zest.
- Gradually mix in dry ingredients alternately with the milk, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Fold in the chopped maraschino cherries.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.