Just like its soda shop counterpart, the Shirley Temple, the Roy Rogers drink is a blast from the past. Even as soda fountains closed their doors, these timeless drinks remained ingrained in American culture. Long before “mocktails” became a buzzword, you could order these delightful non–alcoholic mixed drinks at nearly any bar or restaurant. Cheers to a sip of nostalgia!
Roy Rogers Drink
PREP TIME 5 min
QUICK TIPS
INSTRUCTIONS
01
Pour the grenadine into a Collins glass with ice
02
Top with the cola, and gently stir to combine
03
Garnish with a single maraschino cherry, and serve
Who is the Roy Rogers drink named after?
The Roy Rogers drink is named after the famous cowboy actor and singer, Roy Rogers, known as the “King of the Cowboys.” During his reign in Western films and television shows throughout the 1940s and 1950s, Roy Rogers was known for his clean-cut image and for abstaining from alcohol. This makes the non-alcoholic, sweet and refreshing Roy Rogers drink a fitting namesake!
Read next: 18 Grenadine Cocktails to Try in 2024
Roy Rogers vs. Shirley Temple
A Shirley Temple is lighter and brighter, made with ginger ale or lemon-lime soda and sweetened with grenadine for a cherry twist. The Roy Rogers packs a punchier fizz with cola as its base and relies solely on its sweetness. So next time you’re looking for a fun and festive drink, consider if you want a lighter ginger kick or a bolder cola flavour to pick your champion.
Also see: The Best Cocktail Cherries to Garnish Your Favourite Cocktail
How to make your own grenadine at home
Feeling crafty? Ditch the store-bought grenadine and whip up your own! Simply combine equal parts of pomegranate juice, sugar, and a squeeze of lemon juice in a saucepan. Heat it gently over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Don’t let it boil. Simmer for a few minutes to thicken slightly, then let it cool completely. Store your homemade grenadine in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a month, ready to add a touch of sweet and tart pomegranate punch to your cocktails.
Other mocktails to try at home
If you love a Roy Rogers, you should also try:
