Best Low-Carb Cocktails for Your Keto Lifestyle

Let’s be honest, sticking to a low-carb or keto diet can be challenging, especially when you want to enjoy a good cocktail. But here’s the thing: just because you’re watching your carbs doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the fun. I know it can be tough to stay on track with your dietary goals at social events, especially when drinks are involved.

The good news is that you can absolutely enjoy delicious cocktails without loading up on carbs. In this guide, I’m sharing some of my favorite best low-carb cocktails, along with tips for making and ordering them at a bar. Plus, I’ll give you some pointers on choosing the right ingredients to keep those carb counts low.

I understand that sticking to a low-carb lifestyle, especially when alcohol is part of the equation, can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Let’s check out these cocktails and find some tasty, guilt-free options you’ll enjoy. I’ve got lots of tips and tricks to help you keep your drinks low carb while sticking to your diet.

What Makes a Cocktail Low-Carb or Keto-Friendly?

If you’re aiming for a low-carb or keto-friendly cocktail, the key is keeping the carbs to a minimum. Surprisingly, it’s not the alcohol itself that usually packs on the carbs—it’s the mixers and sweeteners that sneak them in.

Pure spirits like vodka, gin, and rum are practically carb-free. Although they’re made from grains, fruits, or vegetables, the fermentation and distillation processes strip out the carbs, leaving you with a clean slate for your cocktail.

The real culprits are the mixers. For example, tonic water can have about 32 grams of carbs per 12-ounce can, and a bottle of ginger beer can add around 36 grams of carbs. These numbers can really add up if you’re not careful.

But don’t worry, you can easily swap out high-carb ingredients like fruit juices and premade mixes for lower-carb options.

Whether you’re making a cocktail at home or ordering one at the bar, it’s always a good idea to check the labels. Choose spirits and mixers that fit your low-carb or keto goals, and you’ll be able to enjoy your drink without the extra carbs.

Best Classic Low-Carb Cocktails You Can Enjoy

Craving a cocktail but trying to keep the carbs in check? You don’t have to give up on flavor to enjoy a great drink. Here are a few classic cocktails that are low in carbs and still taste great.

Vodka Soda

If you’re keeping an eye on carbs, the Vodka Soda is your best friend. It’s simple, refreshing, and completely carb-free. Just mix vodka with soda water, and you’ve got a low-calorie, low-carb drink. For a little extra flavor, add a splash of lime or a twist of lemon without any added carbs.

Gin and Tonic (with diet tonic)

Love a good Gin and Tonic? Just swap regular tonic for diet tonic, and you have a low-carb version that doesn’t sacrifice taste. Diet tonic keeps the drink light and refreshing without the added sugar. Garnish with a slice of lime or cucumber for a fresh twist. For more ideas, check out this guide to gin and tonic garnishes.

The Gin Rickey is another great option if you’re looking for something light and crisp. It’s made with gin, lime juice, and soda water, making it both refreshing and carb-friendly. Perfect for a hot day or a relaxed evening, this drink won’t weigh you down.

Vodka Martini

For a touch of sophistication, go with a Vodka Martini. It’s low in carbs and incredibly easy to make. Just mix vodka with a splash of vermouth. Both ingredients are low in carbs, making this a popular choice for anyone on a keto diet.

Classic Martini

The Classic Martini has timeless appeal. Traditionally made with gin and dry vermouth, this cocktail is low in carbs. Its dry, crisp flavor is perfect for those who want to enjoy a cocktail without worrying about carb intake.

Classic Old Fashioned

You can easily make an Old Fashioned low-carb with a few simple tweaks. Start with whiskey and bitters, then swap the sugar for a keto-friendly sweetener. Add a twist of orange for that classic flavor, and you’ll have a rich, flavorful cocktail without the extra carbs.

Keto Mojito

For a refreshing, minty drink, give the Keto Mojito a try. Made with rum, fresh mint, lime juice, and a low-carb sweetener like stevia, it’s perfect for those warm summer nights. Enjoy this guilt-free drink anytime.

Low-Carb Margarita

The Low-Carb Margarita is a lighter version of the traditional margarita. Use tequila, lime juice, and a low-carb sweetener instead of sugary mixers. It’s tangy and satisfying without the extra carbs.

Ranch Water

Ranch Water is a simple, low-carb cocktail popular in Texas. Made with tequila, lime juice, and sparkling water, it’s almost carb-free. This drink is perfect for hot weather and outdoor gatherings.

French 75

The French 75 can be made low-carb with just a few adjustments. Substitute the sugar in the simple syrup with a low-carb alternative. Mix gin, lemon juice, and sparkling wine for a keto-friendly version of this classic drink.

Coconut Lime Refresher

For a tropical twist, try the Coconut Lime Refresher. Combine coconut rum, fresh lime juice, and soda water for a light, refreshing drink that’s perfect for anyone wanting a low-carb treat.

Berry Fizz

Berry Fizz is a fruity, refreshing option that’s also low in carbs. Mix together fresh berries, gin, and soda water for a flavorful cocktail. You can add a low-carb sweetener if you like a little extra sweetness.

Cucumber Cooler

The Cucumber Cooler is perfect for summer days. Mix cucumber, vodka, fresh mint, and soda water for a light, low-carb drink that’s perfect for a hot day.

Spicy Paloma

For a bold, zesty drink, try the Spicy Paloma. Use fresh grapefruit juice, tequila, and soda water to keep it low-carb. Add some jalapeño slices for for a spicy kick.

Lemon Ginger Zing

The Lemon Ginger Zing combines vodka, fresh lemon juice, ginger slices, and soda water. This vibrant, citrusy drink is low in carbs and has a refreshing, zesty flavor.

Tomato Tini

The Tomato Tini is a savory, low-carb twist on the classic Bloody Mary. Mix fresh tomato juice, gin, and a hint of lime or lemon for a unique, flavorful cocktail that fits a low-carb lifestyle.

Gin Fizz

The Gin Fizz is a classic cocktail that’s easy to make low-carb. Combine gin, lemon juice, soda water, and a low-carb sweetener for a light, frothy drink that has minimal carbs.

Paloma

The Paloma is a citrusy, refreshing cocktail that’s easy to keep low-carb. Use fresh grapefruit juice, tequila, and soda water to enjoy this popular drink without the added sugars.

Dark ‘N’ Stormy

For a rich and bold option, the Dark ‘N’ Stormy can be made low-carb by swapping regular ginger beer for a sugar-free version. Mix with dark rum and lime for a flavorful, low-carb cocktail.

Low-Carb Cosmopolitan

A sophisticated choice, the Low-Carb Cosmopolitan uses vodka, lime, and sugar-free cranberry juice. This light, refreshing drink is perfect for anyone following a low-carb lifestyle.

Best Low-Carb Mixers and Sweeteners

When making low-carb cocktails, choosing the right mixers and sweeteners is key.
These choices let you enjoy your drinks without loading up on carbs or sacrificing flavor.

Stevia or Monk Fruit Sweetener

Stevia and monk fruit are natural sweeteners that are carb-free and calorie-free. They’re great substitutes for sugar or simple syrup in cocktails. Since they don’t raise blood sugar levels, they’re ideal for keto and low-carb diets.

These sweeteners come in liquid, powder, or granulated forms, making them easy to mix into your drinks. They work particularly well in cocktails like a low-carb Margarita or a keto-friendly Mojito.

Diet Tonic Water

Diet tonic water is a zero-calorie alternative to regular tonic water. While traditional tonic is loaded with sugar, the diet version keeps the same bitter flavor without the carbs. It’s perfect for making a low-carb Gin and Tonic.

Though the taste might be slightly different, brands like Schweppes and Canada Dry offer diet tonic waters that are low in carbs and still delicious. It might take a little experimenting to find the one you like best.

Lime Juice or Lemon Juice

A splash of lime or lemon juice brings bright, tangy flavor to cocktails without adding many carbs. These citrus juices are key in drinks like Margaritas, Mojitos, and Vodka Sodas.

They help balance flavors, making your low-carb drinks more refreshing. It’s always a good idea to have some fresh citrus on hand for your cocktail creations.

Fresh Herbs

Fresh herbs like mint, basil, and rosemary add aroma and flavor without any carbs. Muddling herbs releases their natural oils, giving depth and complexity to your drinks.

Mojitos with mint or a Cucumber Cooler with basil are great examples. Fresh herbs make your cocktails more enjoyable and unique.

Club Soda or Seltzer

Club soda and seltzer are carb-free, bubbly mixers that add a refreshing fizz to your cocktails. They enhance the texture without altering the flavor, making them perfect for low-carb drinks like Vodka Sodas or Gin Rickeys.

Brands like LaCroix and Perrier offer high-quality options, so it’s always good to keep some on hand for a light, carb-free addition to your cocktails.

Unsweetened Tea

Unsweetened tea can be a flavorful and low-carb mixer. Whether you prefer black, green, or herbal teas, they bring a wide range of flavors to your drinks, from earthy to floral. They pair nicely with spirits like vodka or bourbon.

Try using unsweetened tea in a tea-based Vodka Fizz or a Bourbon Iced Tea. If you want a bit more sweetness, Stevia or monk fruit can do the trick.

Sparkling Water with Natural Flavors

Sparkling water with natural flavors is another great zero-carb mixer that adds a hint of fruitiness. Flavors like lime, berry, or citrus give your drinks a subtle boost without the sugar that comes from juices.

These mixers are perfect for simple cocktails like a Vodka Soda. Play around with different flavors to find the best match for your drink. Brands like Spindrift and Bubly offer some tasty options.

With these mixers and sweeteners, you can create delicious low-carb cocktails that are full of flavor while keeping the carbs in check.

Ingredients to Watch Out For

When mixing up low-carb cocktails, some ingredients can sneak in more carbs than you might expect. It’s important to be mindful of what you’re adding to stay on track with your dietary goals.

Premade Syrups

Premade syrups like simple syrup, grenadine, and flavored syrups (such as vanilla or hazelnut) are often loaded with sugar and can quickly raise the carb content of your drink. Even a small amount can introduce hidden sugars that might derail your low-carb efforts.

A better option is to make your own keto-friendly syrups at home. Natural sweeteners like Stevia or Monk Fruit can give you that sweetness without the extra carbs.

Flavored Liqueurs

Flavored liqueurs bring sweetness and depth to cocktails, but they also come with a hefty dose of sugar. Liqueurs like amaretto, triple sec, and Irish cream typically contain high levels of carbs.

Always check the labels, and when possible, opt for sugar-free or low-carb alternatives. If you want the flavor without the carbs, consider using extracts like almond or orange combined with a low-carb sweetener to mimic the taste.

Fruit Juices

Fruit juices provide natural sweetness but are also packed with sugars and carbs. Even a small splash of orange, cranberry, or pineapple juice can significantly raise the carb count of your drink.

If you’re using citrus juice, stick to fresh-squeezed and use it sparingly. Sugar-free versions of these juices can also be a good alternative. For a lower-carb option, try using flavored sparkling water or a few drops of extract to keep the flavor without the added sugars.

High-Carb Mixers

Mixers like regular tonic water, soda, sour mix, and energy drinks are often full of sugar, which can easily spike the carb content of your cocktail. These mixers can turn a low-carb spirit into a high-carb drink in no time.

Instead, look for low-carb substitutes like diet tonic water, club soda, or unsweetened tea. These options let you enjoy your drink while sticking to your low-carb goals.

Sugar Rim

A sugar rim, often found on Margaritas, adds unnecessary carbs to your drink. Rimming your glass with sugar can bump up the carb count, especially if your cocktail already has other high-carb ingredients.

For a savory twist, try using a salt rim instead. Or, if you prefer a touch of sweetness, rim your glass with a low-carb sweetener like Stevia. This way, you get the same effect without the extra carbs.

Best Pre-Made Low-Carb Canned Cocktails

Looking for a quick and tasty way to enjoy low-carb cocktails? Canned cocktails are a great option, especially if you’re sticking to a low-carb diet.

Here are some top choices:

• White Claw Hard Seltzer: Just 2 grams of carbs per can.
• Truly Spiked & Sparkling: Also comes in at 2 grams of carbs per can.
• Bon & Viv Spiked Seltzer: Only 2 grams of carbs, with natural fruit flavors.

These are perfect for when you don’t feel like mixing drinks from scratch. They’re easy to find at stores and are great for parties or when you need a quick fix.

If you’re curious about the taste, Truly has a mild sweetness, White Claw leans a bit more fruity, and Bon & Viv offers some unique flavors.

While homemade low-carb cocktails are an option, they can take time to prepare. Canned cocktails are the go-to when you’re in a hurry. You can enjoy a variety of flavors without the hassle of mixing.

When choosing a low-carb canned cocktail, be sure to check the label for the carb count. It’s best to stick to options with 5 grams of carbs or less.

These canned cocktails are convenient, save time, and taste great—all while keeping your carb intake in check.

Whether you’re at the beach, a BBQ, or just relaxing at home, these canned drinks are a perfect way to enjoy your favorite flavors without the extra carbs.

Tips and Tricks for Making the Best Low Carb Cocktails

Making delicious low-carb cocktails is easier than you might think. With the right ingredients and a few simple techniques, you can enjoy tasty drinks that won’t derail your diet.

Choose Low-Carb Spirits

The base of any great low-carb cocktail starts with the right spirit. Most distilled spirits like vodka, gin, tequila, rum, and whiskey are naturally low or zero-carb, making them perfect for your low-carb creations.

Stick to these basics and avoid flavored or sweetened liquors, as they often contain added sugars and carbs that can throw off your low-carb goals. These versatile spirits are ideal for everything from a classic Gin and Tonic to a refreshing Tequila Sunrise.

Choose Low-Carb Mixers

Low-carb mixers are key to keeping your cocktails light and refreshing. Options like club soda, diet tonic water, and sparkling water with natural flavors are excellent choices. Unsweetened teas can also work well.

These mixers add fizz and flavor without bumping up the carb count, making them perfect for popular drinks like Vodka Sodas or Keto Mojitos. Feel free to experiment with different combinations to find your favorite mix.

Swapping Out Sugar With Low-Carb Sweeteners

You don’t have to give up sweetness in your cocktails. Instead of using sugar, try low-carb alternatives like Stevia, Monk Fruit, erythritol, or allulose. These sweeteners provide the same sweetness you love but without the high carb content of traditional sugar or simple syrup.

Whether you use them in liquid, granulated, or powdered form, just adjust the amount to suit your taste. This swap helps keep your drinks keto-friendly and guilt-free.

Using Extracts and Bitters Instead of High-Carb Juices

Extracts and bitters are fantastic substitutes for high-carb fruit juices. A few drops of vanilla, almond, or citrus extract, or bitters like Angostura or orange bitters, can add depth and complexity to your drinks.

These concentrated ingredients pack a punch with minimal carbs, making them ideal for enhancing cocktails like a Low-Carb Old Fashioned or a Keto Margarita.

Muddle Fresh Fruits and Herbs

Muddling fresh fruits and herbs is a great way to infuse your cocktails with natural flavors while keeping the carbs low. Gently crush ingredients like mint, basil, berries, or citrus zest to release their essential oils and juices.

This technique extracts maximum flavor without needing large quantities of fruit. It keeps your drink light and refreshing.

Cocktails like Mojitos or Berry Fizzes rely on muddling to create vibrant flavors. Enjoy the fresh taste without worrying about carb overload.

How to Order Low-Carb Drinks at the Bar: Tips and Tricks

If you want to enjoy low-carb drinks at the bar, it’s all about avoiding sugary syrups, choosing diet mixers, and sticking to classic cocktails.

Ask for No Syrup

Syrups can add a lot of unnecessary sugar and carbs to your drink. While they might make your cocktail sweet, they also come with extra carbs that you don’t need.

When ordering, simply ask for your drink without syrup. You can say something like, “Could you leave out the syrup?”

If you’re looking for a bit of sweetness, suggest a low-carb sweetener like Stevia or ask if they can add a bit of fresh fruit for a natural touch without the extra carbs.

Choose Diet Mixers

Diet mixers are key for low-carb drinks. Options like diet tonic water, diet cola, and sugar-free cranberry juice are great choices.

These mixers come in a variety of flavors—diet tonic adds a refreshing citrus note, diet cola gives that classic taste, and sugar-free cranberry pairs well with vodka or gin.

If you’re particular about taste, look for brands like Diet Schweppes or Zevia, which offer great flavors without the added sugars.

Stick to Classics

Classic cocktails are usually your best bet for keeping carbs low. Modern drinks often come loaded with sugary syrups and mixers, but classics tend to be simpler and lighter on carbs.

Go for popular low-carb classics like martinis, mojitos, or margaritas. A dry martini, for example, has almost no carbs, and a mojito made with Stevia instead of sugar is a refreshing choice.

You can always customize classic cocktails to make them even lower in carbs. Swap out sugar for a low-carb sweetener and skip high-carb ingredients like triple sec.

Final Thoughts

You can absolutely enjoy delicious cocktails while sticking to your low-carb or keto diet. From vodka sodas to dry martinis, there are plenty of simple and tasty options that fit perfectly with your lifestyle.

Experiment with different flavors and ingredients. Try using fresh herbs, citrus, or low-carb mixers to create your own unique cocktails. Don’t be afraid to get creative behind the bar.

Feel free to try the recipes and tips shared here. With a little practice, you’ll soon find your favorite low-carb cocktail. Cheers to staying healthy and enjoying tasty drinks!

FAQs About Low-Carb Cocktails

How can I sweeten cocktails without adding carbs?

You can sweeten your cocktails with natural alternatives like stevia, monk fruit, erythritol, or allulose. These options keep your drink low-carb while adding a touch of sweetness. Just be sure to use them sparingly, as a little goes a long way. Pairing these sweeteners with complementary flavors can really bring out the best in your drink.

What are the best low-carb cocktail options for beginners?

For beginners, classic cocktails like martinis, mojitos, and margaritas are great choices that can easily be made low-carb. Stick to simple ingredients and easy preparation methods to enjoy a variety of flavors without the extra carbs.

What alcohol is best for a low-carb diet?

Vodka, gin, tequila, and whiskey are all excellent choices for a low-carb diet because they’re naturally low in carbs. It’s best to stick with unflavored spirits, as flavored ones often contain added sugars. These low-carb spirits are versatile and can be used in a wide range of cocktail recipes.

How do I order low-carb drinks at a bar?

When ordering at a bar, let the bartender know you prefer a low-carb cocktail. Ask them to skip sugary syrups and opt for low-carb mixers instead. Diet tonic, club soda, and unsweetened tea are commonly available and can help keep your drink carb-friendly.

Are low-carb cocktails keto-friendly?

Yes, low-carb cocktails can be keto-friendly as long as you use ingredients that fit within keto guidelines. Make sure to check the carb content of each ingredient and adjust portions to stay within your keto macros. Keep in mind that everyone’s keto needs are different, so customize your drinks to suit your own goals.

What are the best low-carb garnishes for cocktails?

Fresh herbs like mint, basil, and rosemary are fantastic low-carb garnishes that add flavor without adding carbs. Citrus fruits like lime or lemon wedges are also great options. You can also try olives, cucumber slices, or even edible flowers for a bit of extra flair.