Low-Calorie Cocktails You Can Enjoy Without Guilt

Cocktails are often associated with high sugar content and excess calories, but the trend toward low-calorie alcoholic drinks is changing that perception. As consumers become more health-conscious and seek lighter, more refreshing alternatives, bars and restaurants, including Applebee’s, have adapted to the demand for low-calorie cocktails.

The rise in skinny cocktails under 100 calories has allowed people to indulge in their favorite drinks while staying on track with their fitness goals. Whether you’re at Applebee’s ordering a low-calorie alcoholic drink or browsing through your local bar’s cocktail menu, low-calorie alcoholic beverages are now widely available.

Quick Answer
If you’re watching your calorie intake but still want to enjoy a cocktail, low-calorie cocktails are the perfect solution. At popular places like Applebee’s, there are several options for low-sugar cocktails and skinny cocktails under 100 calories. With the rise of low-calorie alcoholic drinks in a can, there’s no need to sacrifice taste or enjoyment. Whether you’re at the bar or enjoying a meal at Applebee’s, you can choose from a wide variety of low-calorie cocktails that won’t derail your diet.

In this guide, we’ll dive into the world of low-calorie cocktails you can enjoy without guilt, highlighting great options, benefits, and the growing trend of low-sugar cocktails that are taking over the drink menus. We’ll also explore low-calorie alcoholic drinks in cans that provide a convenient and calorie-conscious way to enjoy a drink at home or on-the-go.

If you enjoy dining out, Applebee’s is a great option for low-calorie alcoholic drinks. The chain offers a range of easy low-calorie cocktails that cater to both flavor and health-conscious consumers. Here are some popular options that are perfect for your next visit.

Skinny Margarita

A margarita is a classic cocktail, but the sugar and calories can quickly add up. Luckily, Applebee’s offers a skinny margarita made with fresh lime juice, tequila, and a splash of orange liqueur. This version significantly reduces the calorie count while maintaining the refreshing flavors of the original.

• Calories: Around 100-120 calories per serving.

Fun Fact: Traditional margaritas can have up to 500 calories in a single serving due to the sugary mixers used. Choosing a skinny margarita helps reduce the calorie intake by 80%.

Vodka Lemonade

The vodka lemonade is another great choice for those looking for something refreshing but light. Applebee’s version uses fresh lemon and a low-calorie sweetener to make a tangy, satisfying drink without all the added sugar.

• Calories: Roughly 120 calories per drink.

Fun Fact: A regular vodka lemonade typically has around 200 calories due to the sugary lemonade mix. By opting for the low-calorie version, you’re cutting the calories by almost 40%.

Low-Calorie Mojito

Mojitos are deliciously minty and refreshing, but they are often loaded with sugar. Applebee’s offers a low-calorie mojito that keeps the minty, citrus flavors without the sugary syrup, making it a guilt-free option.

• Calories: Approximately 110 calories per drink.

Fun Fact: Regular mojitos can have around 200 calories or more, mainly due to the sugar. This version cuts the calorie count by more than 50%.

Low-Calorie Sangria

For wine lovers, Applebee’s offers a low-calorie sangria made with red wine, fresh fruits, and a touch of brandy, all while cutting down on sugar content. This is a great way to enjoy a glass of sangria without the usual calorie overload.

• Calories: About 140 calories per serving.

Fun Fact: Traditional sangria can range from 200 to 300 calories per glass due to added sweeteners and fruit juices. The low-calorie sangria offers a significant reduction in calories without compromising the flavor.

If you’re out at a bar and want to stay within your calorie limits, there are still plenty of low-calorie cocktails to choose from. Here are some great drinks you can order at most bars without worrying about the excess sugar and calories.

Vodka Soda

One of the most straightforward and low-calorie cocktails at the bar is a vodka soda. This cocktail consists of just vodka and soda water, making it one of the lowest-calorie alcoholic drinks you can order. You can always add a squeeze of fresh lime for an extra burst of flavor.

• Calories: Around 90 calories per drink.

Fun Fact: Vodka sodas are one of the lightest alcoholic drinks, offering a simple, calorie-conscious choice that many bars serve. It contains almost no sugar and keeps the calories low while still providing the enjoyment of a cocktail.

Whiskey on the Rocks

If you’re a fan of whiskey, whiskey on the rocks is another great low-calorie option. This classic drink is simply whiskey served with ice, providing you with a pure, no-fuss option that won’t add unnecessary calories.

• Calories: Approximately 100 calories per serving.

Fun Fact: A regular cocktail with whiskey and a mixer can easily exceed 200 calories, so ordering whiskey on the rocks eliminates those extra calories.

Gin and Tonic (Diet Version)

A gin and tonic is a classic drink, but when you substitute regular tonic with diet tonic water, you’re instantly reducing the calorie content. This simple swap allows you to enjoy the same flavors with fewer calories.

• Calories: Around 100 calories per drink when made with diet tonic.

Fun Fact: Regular gin and tonic cocktails can range from 150 to 200 calories, so opting for diet tonic makes it a 30-50% lighter drink.

Mojito (Light)

A light mojito made with rum, soda water, mint, and just a touch of low-calorie sweetener can be a perfect choice for anyone looking for a refreshing cocktail without the calories.

• Calories: Approximately 100-110 calories per drink

Fun Fact: Traditional mojitos with sugary syrup can range from 150 to 250 calories, making the light mojito a significant calorie-saving choice.

For those who prefer convenience, low-calorie alcoholic drinks in a can are a great option. These drinks are typically available in stores and come in a variety of flavors, offering a light, portable drink with minimal calories.

Hard Seltzers

Brands like White Claw and Truly offer hard seltzers that are light, refreshing, and low in calories. These drinks are perfect for parties, picnics, or just a casual evening at home.

• Calories: Around 90 calories per can

Fun Fact: Hard seltzers are a favorite among health-conscious drinkers, offering a light alcoholic option with fewer than 100 calories per serving.

Light Beers

For beer lovers, light beers like Michelob Ultra and Corona Premier are low-calorie options that can satisfy your craving for beer without the excess calories.

• Calories: Approximately 90-100 calories per bottle.

Fun Fact: Light beers typically have about 50-100 fewer calories than regular beers, making them a much lighter option.