The 10 Best Keto Alcohol Drinks of the Summer
One of the more common concerns for people considering the keto diet is that they will have to give up all of their favorite things. This couldn’t be further from the truth!
The trick is you have to, well, keto-fy them.
I’ve done this with bread – Check out my perfect Keto Yeast Bread that makes sandwiches keto-friendly.
I’ve done this with so many desserts, I’ve lost count. Perfect for those moments you need something sweet!
I even “keto-fied” mac and cheese AND Hamburger Helper!
I don’t think I have met a recipe yet that I couldn’t create a keto-friendly version of.
So today, I’m keto-fying happy hour. More specifically I’m sharing the best keto alcohol drinks of the summer.
Because here’s the thing – I get it!
After a long work day, or during a fun weekend with friends and family, you don’t want to be left out of the fun and festivities just because you are being conscious about your choices.
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A Few Warnings About Drinking Alcohol on Keto
I’d be remiss if I didn’t share a few quick things.
First, you will likely get intoxicated faster on keto. This is because the alcohol will metabolize much faster while you’re doing the keto diet.
Therefore, it’s even more important that you drink responsibly – use a designated driver, or drink at home!
Second, as long as you’re drinking keto-friendly cocktails, you should be able to stay in ketosis. What kicks you out of ketosis is sugar – so you must be sure that whatever you are ordering or mixing with your liquor is sugar-free.
It’s also why you want to avoid most wines and beers. There is a surprising amount of sugar in beer and wine. While some low cal beers and dry wines may prevent you from being kicked out of ketosis – it’s easier to stick to liquor.
Third, when drinking is the most common time people drop their diets. Have a game plan when the drinks start flowing. This may mean eating something before you go, or examining the menu and planning your order in advance. You’ll thank me for this tip after a couple of drinks!
Finally, just because you’re drinking something keto-friendly, doesn’t mean you should over-indulge. Lack of sugar will help in lessening the chances of a hangover, but it will not prevent them entirely!
How to Create Keto-Friendly Cocktails
Okay, now that all the disclaimers are out of the way! Let’s discuss how to create keto-friendly cocktails, shall we?
First, start with your base.
The most keto-friendly base liquors are:
- Vodka
- Gin
- Rum
- Tequila
- Brandy
- Whiskey
All of the liquors above should be 0 net carbs. It’s worth noting that if you are using flavored liquors, that you should keep an eye out for added sugars. Infused flavors are fine, but always check the ingredients and sugar content to make sure the liquor and ingredients you are using are keto-friendly.
Second, add a sugar-free mixer.
I’ve seen everything from diet cola to seltzer water and lime to LaCroix. Whatever mixer you choose, make sure it is free of sugar and zero carbs.
Finally, add ice!
Stir or shake and drink up buttercup! It really is that easy.
In fact, you can add other keto-friendly items to your beverage as well. For example, add a keto ice cream to the mix for a fun boozy milkshake. I’ve made vanilla, chocolate, pumpkin pie, almond butter, and even tiramisu ice creams that are keto-friendly!
Keto Cocktail Round Up
Looking for some drink recipes for inspiration? Here’s a round up of some of the best keto alcohol drinks of the summer!
The Best Tequila Spritzer + Infused Ice Cubes For Your Tequila
The best cocktails are made with natural and simple ingredients. Like this Tequila Spritzer Cocktail. Infuse the ice cubes to add natural flavors, and then some high quality tequila and seltzer water.
That’s the real key here – instead of a bunch of artificial flavors to “mask the taste” of the tequila, opt for a higher-quality brand.
Spicy Jalapeno Basil Moscow Mule
For a spicy and fresh twist on the classic cocktail, try this Spicy Jalapeno Basil Moscow Mule. The diet ginger beer keeps each drink at under 5 net carbs, but still has a ton of flavor.
Brandy Alexander Cocktail
This decadent keto version of the classic Brandy Alexander cocktail tastes like a creamy and sweet chocolate milkshake. It’s a sugar-free and low-carb chocolaty party in your mouth!
Keto Vodka Lemonade
Can you imagine summer without lemonade? Me neither! This is a delicious spin on the summer classic featuring monk fruit, vodka, lemon juice, water, ice, and salt.
Keto Birthday Cake Milkshake Recipe
This is the perfect low-carb cocktail when you want to indulge in something cold without blowing your diet. It’s a fun birthday cake-flavored alcoholic drink that you will love with a secret ingredient – cake batter extract. Amazing how many extracts exist!
Keto Mojitos
Transport me to the islands with this keto mojito please. It packs all the flavors you crave with none of the sugar!
Cucumber Tom Collins
If you want to skip the booze, but still sip something amazing, this healthy Cucumber Collins mocktail is it! Just 3 ingredients, and you will have the most refreshing mocktail ever.
But let’s be honest – you came here because you wanted the best keto alcohol drinks of summer – so add the vodka or gin when you’re ready to drink!
Watermelon Mojitos
Watermelon Mojitos give a refreshing mix to the standard mojito. Make sure your watermelons are ripe and in less than five minutes you won’t believe this tasty drink is low carb!
Blueberry Lemon Drop Martini
Fresh blueberry juice and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice make this Blueberry Lemon Martini naturally sweet and oh so delicious. It’s easy, refreshing, and gives you the pucker you’re looking for.
Keto Eggnog Recipe
I couldn’t help myself. Christmas in July anyone? That makes it a summer drink!
This keto-friendly eggnog recipe is made with almond milk and heavy cream. Add a splash of rum or vodka, and you have a yummy, boozy, and yet still healthy treat for any time of the year. Why wait until the holidays to enjoy?
Plan to make any of these drinks? Comment below and let me know which one you can’t wait to try!