9 Holiday Cocktails Under 200 Calories
Cheers -- it's the holiday season! But before you clink your glass, let's make sure that what you're drinking won't throw off your diet goals. While it's easy to spot unhealthy foods, cocktails are a less obvious caloric culprit. The reality is they're often packed with sugar and empty calories.
Overview
Cheers -- it's the holiday season! But before you clink your glass, let's make sure that what you're drinking won't throw off your diet goals. While it's easy to spot unhealthy foods, cocktails are a less obvious caloric culprit. The reality is they're often packed with sugar and empty calories. But there is a way to have your cocktail and drink it too. Whether you're hosting a holiday party or craving a cool-weather libation, read on for nine deliciously festive drinks. And the best news: They're all under 200 calories.
1. Pom-Tini Sparkler
"Pomegranate season typically runs October through February, so the holidays are the perfect time to showcase the pomegranate and impress guests," says registered dietitian and healthy living expert Corinne Dobbas. And what better way to enjoy this tart, seasonal fruit than in a cocktail? Our refreshing drink features citron vodka, sparkling water pomegranate juice and pomegranate arils. CALORIES: 143
Related: Pom-Tini Sparkler Recipe
2. Cranberry-Orange Tea Sipper
If you're a tea afficiondo, you'll love our Cranberry-Orange Spiced Tea Sprit. It's the perfect spiced beverage to sip on during the chilly months. The tea cocktail combines cranberry juice, orange juice water, spiced tea and vodka. It's a drink that will keep your body and your spirit warm. CALORIES: 87
Related: Cranberry-Orange Spiced Tea Sprit
3. Chamomile Collins
If you need a refreshing pick-me-up after a long day of holiday shopping, whip up a Chamomile Collins created by Tim Williams, chief mixologist and owner of Chicago's Pour Souls Cocktail Club. This drink combines the soothing flavors of chamomile-infused vodka, apple cider, simple syrup and lemon juice. Serve it in a Collins glass to sip, savor and let the stress of long lines and crowded parking lots melt away. CALORIES: 195
Related: Chamomile Collins Recipe
4. KiwiHito
With sweet, minty hints reminiscent of a candy cane, this rum-based cocktail from Liquid Lab NYC is perfect for the holidays. Kiwis and strawberries serve as natural substitutes for simple syrups, creating a lighter take on the classic Mojito. Enjoy it before or after your holiday dinner. CALORIES: 124
Related: KiwiHito Recipe
5. Cranberry Pear Cooler
Registered dietitian and healthy living expert Corinne Dobbas recommends the Cranberry Pear Cooler for a festive and low-calorie drink. "This simple and tasty cocktail plays on the flavors of the season," says Dobbas. And at 150 calories a pop, you can indulge without the guilt. It combines vodka, cranberry juice and pear juice. But that's not all: It's elegantly topped with a cinnamon-dipped pear slice for garnish. CALORIES: 145
Related: Cranberry Pear Cooler Recipe
6. Garden Chiller
Prefer a refreshingly delicate drink? Liquid Lab NYC recommends a low-calorie cocktail featuring subtle floral notes. At 160 to 180 calories per serving, you can sip on this drink during holiday parties without feeling too naughty. Muddled cucumber slices with basil, vodka, St. Germain and lime are the major components of this low-calorie, seasonal cocktail. CALORIES: 154
Related: Garden Chiller Recipe
7. Cider House Rules
This sweet and spicy cocktail from Tim Williams, chief mixologist and owner of Pour Souls Cocktail Club, bursts with cinnamon notes. "I love using this particular cider, Vander Mill, in cocktails," says Williams. "It's dry and has no added sugar." The delicious and festive holiday drink combines bourbon, cinnamon brown sugar syrup and Vander Mill Totally Roasted cider. Yum! CALORIES: 91
Related: Cider House Rules Recipe
8. Hot Toddy
Curling up with a warm drink on a cold evening is seriously comforting. This ismple toddy combines black tea, honey, lemon juice and brandy, bourbon or whiskey. You'll get an antioxidant boost from the tea and honey, along with a temperature boost from the warming spirits. CALORIES: 186
Related: Hot Toddy Recipe
9. Sage Sanctuary
Sometimes, you just need to escape the holiday hustle and bustle and indulge in a little "me time." Take sanctuary in this delectable recipe from Liquid Lab NYC. Shopping, wrapping, decorating and visiting family are no match for it! The cocktail contains muddled sage, agave nectar, vodka, bitters, unsweetened iced tea and club soda. This soothing drink will make your much needed r&r that much sweeter. CALORIES: 164
Related: Sage Sanctuary Recipe
What Do YOU Think?
Do you have any favorite, low-calorie holiday cocktails? Which of these beverages would you try? Leave a comment below and let us know!
Related: The 13 WORST Alcoholic Drinks Sure to Derail Your Diet