As a bartender, I've seen it all. From the classic Old Fashioned to the fruity Margarita, I've mixed up countless cocktails for my customers.
But there's one category of drinks that often gets overlooked: Unsweet Cocktails.
Unsweet Cocktails are exactly what they sound like – cocktails that don't contain any added sweeteners. While some may think this sounds boring, I assure you it's anything but.
Unsweet Cocktails allow the natural flavors of the spirits and mixers to shine through, creating a complex and nuanced drinking experience.
Not only are Unsweet Cocktails delicious, but they're also a great option for those looking to cut back on sugar. Many traditional cocktails contain syrups or juices with added sugars, but Unsweet Cocktails rely on the natural sweetness of the ingredients.
Plus, they're a great way to showcase high-quality spirits and mixers without masking their flavors with sweetness.
So, whether you're a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or just looking for a new drink to try, I highly recommend giving Unsweet Cocktails a chance.
In this post, I'll be sharing some of the best Unsweet Cocktail recipes that are sure to impress your taste buds. So, grab your shaker and let's get mixing!
1. Cherry Iced Tea
Cherry Iced Tea is a refreshing and sweet southern cocktail that is perfect for a hot summer day. Made with cherry simple syrup, honey, and Milo's Famous Unsweet Tea, this cocktail is bursting with fruity flavors and natural ingredients. The simple syrup can be made with any frozen fruit, making it a versatile drink that can be customized to your liking.
The Milo's Tea used in this cocktail is brewed with pure cane sugar and natural ingredients, making it a high-quality and award-winning tea. Served with fresh fruit and ice cubes, this Cherry Iced Tea is a must-try cocktail for anyone looking for a sweet and flavorful drink.
2. Hibiscus Mai Tai
The Hibiscus Mai Tai is a modern twist on the classic tiki cocktail. Made with fresh pineapple juice, rum, thyme, honey, and hibiscus tea, this cocktail is a refreshing and light option for those who prefer their drinks unsweetened. Unlike other cocktails that rely on sugary syrups and artificial colors, the Hibiscus Mai Tai uses only real-food ingredients, making it a healthier choice.
The addition of hibiscus syrup on top takes this cocktail to the next level, making it a must-try for anyone who loves a good cocktail. Overall, the Hibiscus Mai Tai is a perfect drink for summer, and it's sure to impress your guests at any gathering.
3. Strawberry Iced Tea
The Strawberry Iced Tea is a refreshing summer cocktail made with fresh strawberries, mint, lemons, and Milo's Famous Unsweet Tea. It's an all-natural, award-winning tea sweetened with pure cane sugar, without any preservatives or added acids.
You can even spike it up with vodka for a more refreshing kick. It's visually appealing, served in a clear glass pitcher with patriotic straws for an instant patriotic flair. Try this easy-to-make cocktail for your next summer party.
4. Garden Tea Cocktail
The Garden Tea Cocktail is a refreshing and unique Unsweet Cocktail that is perfect for those who enjoy a subtle blend of flavors. This cocktail combines rum, vodka, and pomegranate simple syrup with fresh Meyer lemon juice and a sprig of lavender for garnish.
The result is a light and floral cocktail that is perfect for sipping on a warm summer evening. The use of fresh ingredients, including the Meyer lemons and lavender, adds a depth of flavor that is both unexpected and delightful. If you're looking for a cocktail that is both sophisticated and easy to make, the Garden Tea Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
5. Watermelon Cucumber Slushies
The Watermelon Cucumber Slushie is a refreshing and hydrating cocktail that is perfect for the summer season. Made with fresh watermelon and cucumber, this cocktail is not only delicious but also packed with antioxidants and vitamins.
What sets this cocktail apart from others is that it is sweetened with honey instead of refined sugars, making it a healthier alternative. Whether you're lounging by the pool or having a BBQ with friends, the Watermelon Cucumber Slushie is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So, grab a spoon and straw and indulge in this icy, flavorful cocktail on a hot summer day.
6. Southern Sweet Sun Tea
Southern Sweet Sun Tea is a classic southern drink made by steeping black tea in the sun and adding sugar to taste. It's a simple and refreshing cocktail that brings back memories of childhood summers spent sipping on ice-cold tea.
The fact that it's made by steeping tea in the sun gives it a unique twist that is sure to impress your guests. It's easy to make and perfect for sipping on a hot summer day.
7. Mango Iced Tea
"Mango Iced Tea" is a refreshing and tropical twist on a classic iced tea. The recipe uses pureed mango mixed with brewed black tea to create a sweet and flavorful drink.
The best part is that the mango provides a natural sweetness, so there's no need to add any extra sugar. This cocktail is perfect for sipping by the pool on a hot day or serving at a summer party. If you're a fan of fruity drinks, this one is definitely worth trying.
8. Peach Iced Tea
If you're looking for a refreshing summer drink that's not too sweet, Peach Iced Tea is the perfect choice. This cocktail is a simple twist on traditional iced tea, infused with a peach-infused simple syrup. The result is a light and fruity flavor that's perfect for sipping on a hot day.
What's great about this recipe is that it's easy to make and can be customized to your liking. Add as much or as little of the peach simple syrup as you want to adjust the sweetness level. If you're a fan of flavored teas, this one is definitely worth a try. So grab some fresh peaches and get ready to enjoy a delicious and refreshing Peach Iced Tea.
9. Dairy Free Egg Nog
Looking for a creamy, rich and delicious cocktail that's dairy-free? Look no further than the Dairy-Free Egg Nog! Made with a base of egg yolks, sugar and warm milk, this cocktail is perfect for those who want to avoid additives and preservatives found in store-bought egg nog.
With only six pure ingredients, this cocktail is easy to make and can be customized to your liking. Add a splash of rum or whiskey for a warming effect, or enjoy it on its own with your favorite cookie. Trust us, once you try this homemade egg nog, you'll never go back to the store-bought version again.