It’s not all fun and games when you’re living the low-carb lifestyle—but sometimes, it can be! Read on for a list of low-carb cocktails you can enjoy while following a ketogenic diet plan.

First, here’s a simple rule of thumb: when consumed in moderation, any hard liquor can be considered acceptable by keto standards—either by itself or with plain, sugar-free sparkling water. Many sparkling waters contain zero everything, including calories, sugar, sodium, and, of course, carbs; just make sure you check the label or ask the bartender. For extra flavor, fresh lemon or lime juice is always acceptable.

Whether you’re at home or at happy hour, these seven “ketolicious” cocktails won’t disappoint.

Vodka Soda

A simple, low-carb favorite.

What you’ll need:

• 1½-2 oz. of your favorite vodka
• Plain soda water (club soda) or naturally flavored, zero-calorie sparkling water
• Fresh lemon or lime juice (optional)

Directions: Pour vodka over ice, then top with club soda. Squeeze lemon or lime wedges into your glass for a boost of fruity flavor.

Sugar-Free Tom Collins

Think of it as a refreshing, summery, adult lemonade.

What you’ll need:

• 1½-2 oz. gin
• 1 oz. fresh lemon juice
• Club soda
• Stevia or sweetener of choice (see below for a simple keto syrup hack!)

Directions: Pour gin over ice, add fresh lemon juice, then add sweetener. Top with club soda and enjoy.

Low-Carb Moscow Mule

Break out those coveted copper mugs!

What you’ll need:

• ½ oz. fresh lime juice
• 1½-2 oz. vodka
• 4 oz. diet ginger beer (sweetened with stevia)

Directions: Pour vodka over ice followed by ginger beer, stirring to combine. Squeeze in lime juice to finish.

Mojito

Nothing could be simpler or more refreshing than this classic Cuban cocktail.

What you’ll need:

• 1½-2 oz. white rum
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• Club soda
• Stevia or sweetener of choice (see below for a simple keto syrup hack!)

Directions: Muddle fresh lime and mint sprigs in the bottom of a short glass. Add in ice followed by rum and a small amount of sweetener. Top with plain soda water.

Skinny Margarita

Yes, it’s true—you can have all the refreshing flavors without the sugar or carbs.

What you’ll need:

• 1½-2 oz. tequila
• ½ tsp. of orange extract
• Fresh lime juice, to taste
• Optional: Lemon- or lime-flavored sparkling water

Directions: Combine tequila, orange extract, and fresh lime juice in a shaker cup. Shake well and pour over ice. To make your drink go further and help balance it out, add in a small amount of lemon- or lime-flavored sparkling water.

 

Vanilla Old-Fashioned

A keto twist on an old-time favorite!

What you’ll need:

• 2 oz. whiskey or bourbon
• Orange peel
• Sugar-free vanilla syrup
• Orange water enhancer
• Club soda

Directions: Muddle the orange peel in the bottom of a short glass. Add bourbon, vanilla syrup, and orange water enhancer; stir and add ice. Top with a splash of club soda and enjoy.

Keto Kamikaze

Take it as a shot or sip on it leisurely—either way, it’s delicious.

What you’ll need:

• 2 Tbsp. lime juice
• ½ tsp. stevia or sweetener (see below for a keto simple syrup hack!)
• 1½ oz. vodka

Directions: Combine ingredients in a shaker cup with ice and shake well. Serve on the rocks or in a shot glass.

Remember: If you choose to indulge in alcohol, it should always be in moderation. Enjoy responsibly.

With all the keto-friendly cocktail options out there, you have yet another reason never to feel like you’re missing out on anything. Cheers!