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Cool off this summer with these lightened up low calorie cocktails! They’re refreshing, easy to make and delicious.
Summer is officially here, so I wanted to share some of my favorite low calorie cocktail recipes with you!
While I don’t drink a ton of alcohol, I do love a refreshing cocktail every now and then, especially when it’s over 90 degrees outside! When it comes to cocktails I usually prefer to make them myself so I can control the ingredients. When getting cocktails out at a restaurant or bar, they can easily be upwards of 500 calories (I’m looking at you blended frozen margaritas) and lord knows how much sugar.
My general rule of thumb when making cocktails is to keep it simple. The less ingredients the better! I also try to use no added sugar or at least use a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey instead of simple syrup.
All of these cocktail recipes are super easy to make with simple ingredients. They’re refreshing and can easily be doubled or tripled to serve a crowd at your next summer cookout. PS: If you’re looking for some delicious cookout recipes here are some of my faves: turkey burgers, broccoli salad, poppy seed chicken pasta salad and grilled sweet potatoes.
One of my all time favorites is this strawberry frosรฉ, so if you haven’t tried that recipe yet I’d start there!
Tips for Serving Lighter Cocktails
Here are a few tips I keep in mind when making cocktails at home โ whether itโs just for me or for a crowd.
- Serve a crowd with a pitcher. If you’re hosting, mix up a big batch of one or two cocktails ahead of time in a pitcher or large jar. Store in the fridge and pour over ice just before serving. You can even prep the glasses with garnishes like citrus slices or salted rims ahead of time.
- Keep things cold. Use chilled liquor, fresh juice, and frozen fruit when you can โ especially for blended drinks like frosรฉ or piรฑa coladas. I like to freeze a few grapes or berries to toss into drinks as edible ice cubes.
- Garnish simply. Fresh herbs (like mint or rosemary), citrus wedges, and a sprinkle of flaky salt or coconut flakes go a long way in making a drink feel special without adding sugar.
- Have non-alcoholic options too. I always like to have a mocktail version available using the same ingredients minus the liquor. Sparkling water with lime or a splash of grapefruit juice feels just as festive.
- Stick to a simple menu. You donโt need a full cocktail bar. One or two solid drink options (plus maybe a mocktail or infused water) is more than enough to keep everyone happy.
Cold, fruity, and slushy in the best way. Itโs the kind of drink that makes you want to text your friends and invite them over.
Light, creamy, and tropical without the heaviness of a classic daiquiri. This oneโs low-key decadent.
Tart and citrusy with just enough bite. Great if you want something simple that still feels like a real cocktail.
Crisp, clean, and endlessly customizable. This is my go-to when I want something light and refreshing that wonโt weigh me down.
No sugary mix here โ just bright citrus flavor and a salty rim. This oneโs perfect for taco night or sipping in the sun.
Skinny Paloma (no sugar added)
Tart, fizzy, and full of grapefruit goodness. A refreshing twist that tastes fancy but takes almost no effort.
Creamy, coconutty, and beachy without the sugar crash. Close your eyes and pretend youโre on vacation.
Minty, cool, and super refreshing. This oneโs made for backyard nights and bare feet on the patio.
Helpful Tools I Use
You donโt need a full bar setup to make great cocktails at home. Here are a few tools I like to keep on hand:
- Citrus juicer: Fresh lime and lemon juice make all the difference.
- Cocktail shaker: Great for mixing drinks evenly and chilling fast.
- Jigger or small measuring cup: Helps keep portions in check.
- Muddler: Perfect for mojitos or anything with herbs or fresh fruit.
- Blender: For frozen cocktails like the strawberry frosรฉ or piรฑa colada.
Frequently Asked Questions
Vodka, tequila, gin, and light rum are great options for lower calorie drinks. Theyโre all around 60โ70 calories per ounce and donโt have added sugars like some flavored or spiced spirits. I usually stick with vodka or tequila for the cleanest taste and most flexibility.
Yes! I love using maple syrup or honey in place of traditional simple syrup. You only need a little, and it adds a nice flavor boost without the refined sugar.
Use real fruit, no added sugar, and blend with ice, chilled wine, or liquor. For creamy frozen drinks, light coconut milk or Greek yogurt works great.
Definitely. Just leave out the liquor and replace it with extra sparkling water, kombucha, or coconut water for a mocktail version thatโs just as refreshing.
