5 Low-Calorie Cocktail Recipes for Guilt-Free Enjoyment

Many of our regular blog readers love nothing more than a relaxing drink every now and then. One thing we don’t like though, is the high calorie count that can often come with it.

A pint of beer for example is often over 200 calories, meaning it doesn’t take many to really ramp up your daily intake.

So, what is the solution?

Enter the low-calorie cocktail. These are drinks that are packed with flavours and just as satisfying as any other choice on the drinks menu but are much lower in calories.

In this blog, we’re going to delve a little deeper into what goes into crafting these cocktails and give 5 great examples for you to try.

Whether you’re looking to unwind after a long day or hosting a gathering with friends, our selection of cocktail recipes will ensure you can indulge in the joy of a well-mixed drink without the guilt.

And of course, each one will be created using a tasty product from Lixir Drinks.

Let’s take a look.

What is a Low-Calorie Cocktail?

When it comes to enjoying a delicious cocktail, many of us are conscious of the calorie content, especially if we’re trying to maintain a balanced lifestyle.

But what exactly makes a cocktail ‘low-calorie’?

Understanding this can help us make better choices without compromising on the enjoyment of a good drink.

Let’s start with the calorie count. For this blog, we’re going to say anything that is under 150 calories.

That means one of these delicious cocktails contains about the same calories as a bag of crisps.

But how can this be achieved? Well, there are three essential elements:

• The Base – Firstly, the base spirit is a significant factor. Vodka, gin, tequila, rum, and whiskey all have roughly the same amount of calories per shot (just over 100 calories for a 50ml shot). The trick is to avoid sugary liqueurs and syrupy additives that can double or triple the calorie count. And of course, if you want to go really low calorie, why not remove the alcohol altogether?

 

• The Mixer – Secondly, the mixers play a crucial role. High sugar tonics, fizzy drinks, and juices are often the culprits behind the calorie hike in cocktails. Opting for low calories options such as Lixir’s Refreshingly Light Tonic is a great way of keeping the calorie count down, at a miniscule 14 kcal every 100ml.

 

• Added Extras – What is a cocktail without some added thrills to finish it off? Garnishes and extras can add plenty to a drink, but this includes unnecessary calories. Fresh fruit, herbs, and spices can enhance the flavour of your cocktail without adding a significant number of calories. It’s when we reach for the whipped cream, sugar rims, or chocolate syrups that the calorie count starts to climb.

Remember, portion control is key. Even the lowest calorie drink will rack up if you have a high number of servings, so drinking responsibly and enjoying a tipple every now and then is the way to go.

 

5 Low Calorie Cocktails

Citrus Zest Spritz

Let’s start with one that is sure to ignite your palate. This vibrant cocktail really packs a punch, and the crispness of the vodka combined with the zesty punch of the blood orange makes an invigorating and enticing drink. It’s easy to make and always delightfully refreshing with a lovely citrus twist. And coming in at 140 calories, it is definitely a great low-calorie option.

Ingredients

• 50 ml vodka (around 110 kcal)
• 100 ml Lixir Blood Orange & Cinnamon Tonic (21 kcal)
• A splash of soda water (0 kcal)
• Ice cubes (0 kcal)
• Orange zest for garnish (9 kcal)

Instructions

1. Fill a glass with ice cubes.
2. Pour the vodka over the ice.
3. Add the Lixir Blood Orange & Cinnamon Tonic.
4. Top with a splash of soda water.
5. Garnish with a twist of orange zest.

Berry Bliss Fizz

This drink is perfect for really embracing the essence of summer. The botanical notes of the gin partner perfectly with the sweet and fragrant tonic. With some flavoursome berries added as a garnish, this makes the ideal cocktail for a warm summers night, and at roughly 145 calories per serving, it’s perfect for those looking to keep their intake down.

Ingredients

• 50 ml gin (105 kcal if using brands such as Sipsmith, Gordons, and Hendricks)
• 100 ml Lixir Elderflower & Lemon Tonic. (21 kcal)
• Fresh berries for garnish (20 kcal)
• Ice cubes (0 kcal)

Instructions

1. Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.
2. Add the gin.
3. Top with Lixir Elderflower & Lemon Tonic.
4. Stir gently.
5. Garnish with fresh berries.

Herbal Garden G&T

The herbal garden gin & tonic is an aromatic and relaxing take on this absolute classic. We love a gin and tonic here in the UK and the fact there are so many variations on this versatile drink (just using different tonic can make a world of difference) is a key reason it is such a fan favourite. At only 132 calories, this is a brilliant and light option, and is packed with herby flavours that complement the bitterness of the gin perfectly.

Ingredients

• 50 ml gin (105 kcal)
• 100 ml Lixir Classic Indian Tonic (22 kcal)
• A sprig of rosemary (4 kcal)
• A slice of cucumber (1 kcal)
• Ice cubes (0 kcal)

Instructions

1. Fill a glass with ice cubes.
2. Add the gin.
3. Pour in the Lixir Classic Indian Tonic.
4. Stir gently.
5. Garnish with a sprig of rosemary and a slice of cucumber.

Spiced Ginger Mule

For something that is sure to warm you up on cold winter nights, the spiced ginger mule is a great choice. The rich dark rum is elevated by the fiery kick of a flavoursome ginger beer, which makes a tasty and impactful combination. Add a squeeze of lime to cut through the sweetness and you have a well-balanced drink that is only around 150 calories.

Ingredients

• 50 ml dark rum (115 kcal)
• 100 ml Lixir Ginger Beer (22 kcal)
• A squeeze of fresh lime juice (10 kcal)
• A slice of lime for garnish (53 kcal)
• Ice cubes (0 kcal)

Instructions

1. Fill a mule mug with ice cubes.
2. Pour in the dark rum and a squeeze of lime juice.
3. Top with Lixir Ginger Beer.
4. Stir gently.
5. Garnish with a slice of lime.

Refreshing Mint Cooler

If you’re looking to cool down, then why not do so with the refreshing mint cooler, a cocktail that’s as invigorating as a brisk breeze on a hot day. The smooth white rum is layered with the Lixir Rhubarb & Ginger Tonic and the final touch of a handful of fresh mint leaves brings a burst of coolness to the mix. Topped with a splash of soda water, this cocktail is only around 130 calories and a great way to relax at the end of a busy day.

Ingredients

• 50 ml white rum (104 kcal)
• 100 ml Lixir Rhubarb & Ginger Tonic (22 kcal)
• Fresh mint leaves (5 kcal)
• A splash of soda water (0 kcal)
• Ice cubes (0 kcal)

Instructions

1. Muddle some mint leaves at the bottom of a glass.
2. Fill the glass with ice cubes.
3. Add the white rum.
4. Pour in the Lixir Rhubarb & Ginger Tonic.
5. Top with a splash of soda water.
6. Stir gently and garnish with a sprig of mint.

Please note that the calorie content will vary based on the specific products used and the numbers in this blog are a rough guide. For the most accurate information, refer to the nutritional information on the specific products that you choose.

Enjoy your cocktails responsibly!

Lixir Drinks

Through these five recipes for delicious cocktails, it is clear that indulgence and well-being can go hand in hand.

Using the vibrant range of low-calorie mixers from Lixir Drinks, you don’t need to compromise on flavour to keep things healthier.

Remember, the key to a great cocktail is not just in the ingredients but in the care and creativity with which you mix them.

So, whether you’re toasting to health, happiness, or just the end of a long day, these cocktails are sure to add a splash of joy without the burden of excess calories.

Want to know more about Lixir Drinks? Then get in touch with our team today.