As a bartender, I know that drinking alcohol while on a ketogenic diet can be a challenge. Most cocktails are loaded with sugar and carbs, which can easily knock you out of ketosis.
But fear not, my fellow keto enthusiasts! There's no need to sacrifice your love for bourbon cocktails just because you're watching your carbs.
Bourbon is a great choice for keto drinkers because it's made from corn, which is lower in carbs than other grains. However, not all bourbon cocktails are created equal.
Many traditional bourbon cocktails, such as the Old Fashioned or Whiskey Sour, contain added sugar or sweeteners that can quickly add up in carbs.
So, what's a keto bourbon lover to do? The answer is simple: get creative!
With a little bit of experimentation and a few key ingredients, you can create delicious keto-friendly bourbon cocktails that won't throw you off track.
In this blog post, I'll be sharing some of my favorite keto bourbon cocktail recipes. From spicy and savory to sweet and refreshing, these cocktails are sure to satisfy your cravings without compromising your diet.
So, sit back, grab your favorite bourbon, and get ready to discover the best keto-friendly bourbon cocktails out there!
1. Low Carb Strawberry Basil Bourbon Smash
The Low Carb Strawberry Basil Bourbon Smash is a refreshing and delicious cocktail that is perfect for the summer season. Made with fresh strawberries, basil, and bourbon, this cocktail is low in carbs and high in flavor.
The sweetness of the strawberries is balanced out by the earthiness of the basil, while the bourbon adds a subtle kick. The addition of club soda gives it a refreshing fizz that makes it perfect for sipping on a hot day. It's definitely worth trying if you're looking for a low carb cocktail that is both delicious and easy to make.
2. Keto Bourbon Peach Smash
The Keto Bourbon Peach Smash is a refreshing and low-carb cocktail perfect for summer. Made with fresh lemon, sprigs of mint, Torani Puremade Zero Sugar Peach Syrup, and bourbon, this cocktail has only 1.1g net carbs and 132 calories. The sweetness of the peach syrup perfectly complements the tartness of the lemon and the distinctive flavor of the bourbon.
The addition of fresh mint adds a refreshing touch to this delicious cocktail. What's great about this recipe is that it uses Torani's new line of Puremade Zero Sugar Syrups, which are made from natural sweeteners with zero calories and no GMOs. If you're looking for a tasty and guilt-free cocktail, the Keto Bourbon Peach Smash is definitely worth a try.
3. Vanilla Old Fashioned Cocktail
The Vanilla Old Fashioned Cocktail is a delicious twist on the classic bourbon cocktail. This low carb version is perfect for those following a keto diet, as it uses sugar-free vanilla syrup instead of simple syrup. The vanilla flavor is delicate and adds a nice touch to the smooth bourbon.
The addition of club soda gives it a refreshing fizz, making it a great choice for a relaxing evening drink. The use of high-quality bourbon is crucial for this cocktail, as it brings out the rich and smooth notes of caramel and vanilla. Overall, the Vanilla Old Fashioned Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a low carb, keto-friendly bourbon cocktail with a unique twist.
4. Keto Old Fashioned
The Keto Old Fashioned is a low-carb twist on the classic cocktail that is perfect for those following a keto diet. Made with high-quality whiskey, orange bitters, Angostura bitters, and a brown sugar replacement syrup, this cocktail is both sweet and bitter, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
The addition of an orange peel gives it a refreshing citrusy twist. This cocktail is perfect for those who love bourbon and want to enjoy a low-carb drink without sacrificing taste. If you're looking for a delicious keto-friendly cocktail to enjoy after a long day, the Keto Old Fashioned is definitely worth trying.
5. Hot Toddy
The Hot Toddy is a classic cocktail that has been enjoyed for centuries, especially during the colder months. This Keto version of the Hot Toddy is perfect for those following a low-carb lifestyle. It includes all the classic ingredients like bourbon, lemon, and spices, but with a keto-approved sweetener instead of honey.
The warm and spicy flavors of this cocktail make it the perfect drink to cozy up with on a cold winter night. Whether you're enjoying it with friends or sipping it solo by the fire, the Keto Hot Toddy is sure to become a new favorite.
6. Manhattan Cocktail
The Manhattan Cocktail is a classic drink that has been around since the 1870s. It's a perfect choice for those who love whisky and vermouth. Traditionally, rye whiskey is used, but you can also use Canadian whisky, blended whiskey, Tennessee whiskey or bourbon.
The cocktail is low carb and has only 1 gram of net carbs. However, the sweet vermouth adds some carbs, but it's worth it for the taste. The drink is perfect for those who want to enjoy a quality cocktail without worrying about the carbs. If you're looking for a delicious and classic cocktail, the Manhattan is a great choice.
7. Three Wisemen Shot
The Three Wisemen Shot is a potent and no-frills cocktail that is perfect for those who want to get down to business. Made with equal parts of Johnnie Walker Scotch, Jack Daniels Whiskey, and Jim Beam Bourbon, this shot is not for the faint of heart.
Although the origin of the recipe is unknown, it is believed to have been created by a creative bartender. The best part about this cocktail is that it is 100% keto-friendly, with no added sugars and 0 carbs. If you're looking for a strong and straightforward drink, the Three Wisemen Shot is definitely worth a try.
8. Bourbon Manhattan
The Bourbon Manhattan is a classic American cocktail that has been around since the 1870s. Made with bourbon whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, this cocktail is a perfect balance of smoky and sweet flavors.
The key to making the perfect Manhattan is choosing the right bourbon, and a smooth bourbon without too much smoke or sweetness is the best choice. This cocktail is perfect for those who are on a Keto diet, as it contains no added sugars or carbs. If you're a bourbon lover looking for a classic cocktail with a Keto twist, the Bourbon Manhattan is a must-try.
9. Old Fashioned Cocktail
The Old Fashioned Cocktail is a classic and timeless drink that is perfect for any bourbon lover. It is a simple cocktail that requires only a few ingredients, making it easy to make at home. This cocktail is perfect for those following a Keto diet as it is low in carbs and sugar-free.
The garnish of orange peel adds a fresh and citrusy flavor to the drink, while the Luxardo Cherry adds a touch of sweetness. The use of rye whiskey instead of bourbon can also add a different dimension to the drink. If you are looking for a Keto-friendly bourbon cocktail, the Old Fashioned is definitely worth a try.
10. Bourbon Bramble Sugar Free Keto Cocktail
The Bourbon Bramble Sugar Free Keto Cocktail is a perfect summer treat for those who are on a keto diet. With only 3 net carbs per drink, this cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a low-carb option. The cocktail is made with sugar-free blackberry liqueur, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and bourbon, giving it a sweet and tangy flavor.
It is garnished with blackberries and fresh mint, making it a refreshing drink for a hot summer day. The cocktail is a variation of the classic gin bramble, and it is a great option for those who want to try something new. If you are looking for a delicious and low-carb cocktail, the Bourbon Bramble Sugar Free Keto Cocktail is a must-try.
11. Bourbon Old Fashioned
The Bourbon Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail made with bourbon, sugar, bitters, orange, and a cherry. It's a keto-friendly option without sacrificing taste and quality.
The use of turbinado sugar and Maraska cherries elevates the drink to a bar-style quality. The addition of a spritzed orange peel gives the right amount of citrus zest without overpowering the deep flavors of the drink.
12. Chai Old Fashioned
The Chai Old Fashioned is a unique twist on the classic bourbon cocktail. Made with a brown sugar-chai simple syrup and citrusy bitters, this cozy cocktail is perfect for chilly nights by the fire. The warm spices of the chai blend perfectly with the rich flavor of the bourbon, creating a comforting and satisfying drink.
The addition of an orange peel slice, Luxardo cherry, and cinnamon stick provide the perfect finishing touch to this delicious cocktail. Whether you're a bourbon lover or just looking for a cozy and comforting drink, the Chai Old Fashioned is definitely worth trying.
