Low-calorie holiday cocktails to keep your spirits bright

Kiran Campbell, RDN - Registered Dietitian Nutritionist

This year, keep the festivities light and guilt-free with these delicious, low-calorie cocktails that deliver all the cheer without overloading your calorie count.

Low-calorie cocktails can prevent weight gain

During the holidays, it’s easy to overindulge in rich foods and alcohol, often leading to weight gain and, in some cases, "holiday heart syndrome." Most traditional holiday cocktails are high in calories, fat, and added sugars. Research shows that liquid calories don’t satisfy hunger as effectively as solid foods, increasing your chances of overeating.

A word about alcohol intake

If you choose to drink alcohol, the CDC recommends moderation: up to two drinks per day for men and one for women. Each of the following low-calorie cocktails and mocktails allows you to enjoy holiday celebrations without exceeding your calorie budget and health goals.

You can omit the alcohol in any of these recipes to reduce the calorie content further. Cheers!

Lightened-up eggnog

Traditional eggnog is rich and high in calories. Eggnog, Light and Easy from Making Life Delicious keeps the creamy holiday flavor but is much lighter, at approximately 145 calories per serving. It tastes great served hot or cold.

Reduce the calories further by omitting the alcohol or using fat-free or plant-based milk.

Skinny spiced wine

Mulled wine beverages can range from 200 to 300 calories per serving. However, this Easy Slow Cooker Mulled Wine from Thinlicious is a healthier take on the classic spiced wine.

It uses low-calorie sweeteners and fresh spices to banish any feelings of remorse. At a mere 155 calories per serving, this recipe is prepared in a slow cooker, making it easy to prep and serve.

Sparkling cranberry vodka spritzer

A refreshing cocktail with a festive, ruby-red hue, KETohh’s Low-Carb Cranberry Vodka Spritz is perfect for holiday gatherings at 100 calories per serving. It combines the tart flavor of cranberry with the crispness of vodka. Typically, it is topped with soda water for a fizzy finish and uses lower-calorie mixers. It’s beautiful and delicious for the holidays, garnished with a bit of citrus peel.

Festive pomegranate mimosa

A Pomegranate Mimosa recipe from The Healthful Ideas is a festive twist on the classic mimosa. It blends pomegranate’s tart and fruity flavor with sparkling wine or champagne. A little fancy yet simple, it uses fresh pomegranate and orange juices and optional rosemary syrup. At only 111 calories per serving, this will hardly set you back.

Mulled cider

The Kitchn’s Slow-Cooker Mulled Cider is a low-calorie version of classic mulled cider that combines apple cider with spices like cinnamon and cloves. Elevate it to cocktail status with a splash of bourbon or rum. Remember to choose unsweetened apple cider to keep its low, 130-calorie-per-serving standing. It’s cozy and perfect for chilly days or holiday gatherings.

Cranberry orange mocktail spritzer

For those who choose non-alcoholic beverages, this refreshing Cranberry Orange Mocktail from The Healthy Epicurean combines the tartness of cranberry with the bright citrus of orange.

Getting its fizzy finish from sparkling water, it’s a festive, low-calorie option for holiday gatherings or any occasion where you want a light and fruity beverage under 100 calories.

Tips for making cocktails lower-calorie

Channel your inner mixologist by creating low-calorie cocktails and mocktails with these helpful tips.

Low-calorie mixers: Use sparkling water, club soda, diet soda, or light fruit juices.
Natural sweeteners: Try experimenting with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup or non-nutritive sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit as sugar alternatives.
Portion control: Remember to monitor portion sizes. During the holidays, pouring large servings or drinking more than expected is easily said and done.
Alcohol alternatives: Skipping alcohol altogether is also an option and can lower calorie content significantly.

Drink responsibly and enjoy the festivities!

These low-calorie cocktail recipes will ensure your holiday season remains as holly and jolly as ever. Enjoy festive and flavorful cocktails all season by experimenting with low-calorie mixers, garnishes, herbs, and spices while keeping a tight rein on your health goals.

If you try any of these low-calorie cocktails or mocktails. Don’t forget to tag MyNetDiary on Instagram!

Low-calorie holiday cocktails to keep your spirits bright

Low-calorie cocktails can prevent weight gain