Sometimes it can be tough for those following a ketogenic lifestyle to indulge in their love of cocktails. Many drinks are loaded with sugar and carbs, which can easily kick them out of ketosis. However, this doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice your favorite bourbon-based drinks just because you’re watching your carb intake. In fact, bourbon is a relatively good choice for keto drinkers since it’s made from corn, which has lower carb content compared to other grains.
But not all cocktails are created equal, and some traditional recipes can be problematic. Take the Old Fashioned or Whiskey Sour, for example – these classic drinks often 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 your ingredients! By experimenting with new combinations and substituting some key ingredients, you can create delicious and keto-friendly cocktails that won’t blow your diet.
In this post, I’ll be sharing some of my favorite low-carb bourbon cocktail recipes, from spicy and savory to sweet and refreshing. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or just starting out, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings without compromising your dietary goals. So sit back, grab your favorite bourbon, and get ready to discover the best keto-friendly bourbon cocktails out there!
Low Carb Strawberry Basil Bourbon Smash
A tantalizing twist on the classic cocktail, the Low Carb Strawberry Basil Bourbon Smash is an ideal choice for warm weather gatherings or a relaxing summer evening. This refreshing drink combines the natural sweetness of fresh strawberries with the fragrant earthiness of basil, while the bourbon adds a subtle depth and complexity.
The balance of flavors is perfectly complemented by the addition of club soda, which gives the cocktail a revitalizing fizz that makes it perfect for sipping on a hot day. As an added bonus, this low-carb cocktail is both easy to prepare and indulgent in taste, making it definitely worth trying if you’re looking for a guilt-free drink option.
Keto Bourbon Peach Smash
Crafted specifically for warm weather gatherings, the Keto Bourbon Peach Smash is a low-carb cocktail that’s perfect for summer. Made with fresh lemon juice, sprigs of mint, Torani Puremade Zero Sugar Peach Syrup, and bourbon, this refreshing drink boasts an impressive nutritional profile: only 1.1g net carbs and a mere 132 calories. The sweetness of the peach syrup skillfully balances the tartness of the lemon and the distinctive flavor of the bourbon, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.
One of the standout features of this recipe is the use of Torani’s innovative Puremade Zero Sugar Syrups, which are crafted from natural sweeteners with zero calories and no genetically modified organisms (GMOs). This makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a guilt-free cocktail option. Whether you’re looking to indulge in a tasty treat or simply want to impress your guests, the Keto Bourbon Peach Smash is definitely worth trying out.
Vanilla Old Fashioned Cocktail
Packed with flavor and perfectly suited to those following a keto diet, the Vanilla Old Fashioned Cocktail is a delicious departure from the classic bourbon cocktail. This low-carb version achieves its sweetness through sugar-free vanilla syrup instead of traditional simple syrup, resulting in a delicate and refined flavor profile that complements the rich, smooth notes of high-quality bourbon.
The addition of club soda not only adds a refreshing fizz but also helps to cut the richness of the drink, making it an excellent choice for a relaxing evening sipper. The use of premium bourbon is essential for this cocktail, as it brings out the full spectrum of flavors, from caramel and vanilla to other subtle notes that are sure to delight the senses.
Keto Old Fashioned
Unlocking a new world of flavors, the Keto Old Fashioned is a game-changing twist on the classic cocktail that caters specifically to those following a keto diet. Crafted with high-quality whiskey, orange bitters, Angostura bitters, and a brown sugar replacement syrup, this cocktail masterfully blends sweet and bitter notes, creating an exquisite balance of flavors. The addition of an orange peel adds a revitalizing citrusy twist, elevating the drink to new heights.
This keto-friendly cocktail is tailor-made for bourbon enthusiasts who crave a low-carb alternative without compromising on taste. Whether you’re seeking a delightful keto-friendly beverage to unwind after a long day or looking to spice up your social gatherings, the Keto Old Fashioned is an absolute must-try.
Hot Toddy
Delighting those who follow a low-carb lifestyle, this Keto version of the Hot Toddy offers a modern twist on a classic cocktail. Ditching the traditional honey for a keto-approved sweetener, this drink still maintains all the warm and spicy flavors that make the original so beloved. Drawing inspiration from its predecessor, the Keto Hot Toddy brings together bourbon, lemon, and spices in perfect harmony, creating a cozy companion for cold winter nights.
Manhattan Cocktail
Weighing in at nearly two centuries old, the Manhattan Cocktail remains a timeless classic that continues to captivate drinkers with its rich blend of flavours. Traditionally made with rye whiskey, this iconic drink can also be crafted using Canadian whisky, blended whiskey, Tennessee whiskey or bourbon – each offering its own unique twist on the original recipe.
With only 1 gram of net carbs, this low-carb cocktail is an excellent choice for those seeking to indulge in a sophisticated beverage without compromising their dietary goals. Although the sweet vermouth does add some carbs to the mix, it’s undeniable that the Manhattan’s complex flavour profile makes it well worth the indulgence. Whether you’re looking for a classic cocktail experience or simply want to impress your friends with a refined drink, the Manhattan Cocktail is an excellent choice.
Three Wisemen Shot
Taking its name from the three wise men who visited baby Jesus after his birth, The Three Wisemen Shot is a potent and no-frills cocktail that’s perfect for those who want to get straight to the point. Made with equal parts of Johnnie Walker Scotch, Jack Daniels Whiskey, and Jim Beam Bourbon, this shot is not for the faint of heart or those looking for a subtle drinking experience.
The exact origin of the recipe remains unknown, but it’s believed to have been created by a creative bartender who wanted to craft a drink that would pack a punch without any added sugars or carbs. One of the best things about this cocktail is that it’s 100% keto-friendly, making it an excellent option for those following a low-carb diet. If you’re looking for a strong and straightforward drink that won’t compromise your dietary goals, The Three Wisemen Shot is definitely worth trying.
Bourbon Manhattan
The Bourbon Manhattan has been a staple in American cocktail culture since the 1870s, and its enduring popularity can be attributed to its perfect blend of smoky and sweet flavors. At the heart of this classic cocktail are three essential ingredients: bourbon whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters. When it comes to selecting the right bourbon for your Manhattan, a smooth and balanced spirit with minimal smoke or sweetness is ideal.
This makes it an excellent choice for those following a Keto diet, as it contains no added sugars or carbs. As a result, bourbon enthusiasts looking for a classic cocktail with a low-carb twist will find the Bourbon Manhattan to be a must-try.
Old Fashioned Cocktail
Generally considered one of the most iconic and enduring cocktails in the world, the Old Fashioned is a timeless classic that has captured the hearts of bourbon enthusiasts everywhere. Its simplicity is part of its charm, requiring only a few readily available ingredients to prepare at home. As such, it presents an excellent option for those following a Keto diet due to its extremely low carb and sugar-free nature.
Bourbon Bramble Sugar Free Keto Cocktail
Boasting an impressive 3 net carbs per drink, the Bourbon Bramble Sugar Free Keto Cocktail stands as a prime summer indulgence for those adhering to a keto diet. Crafted with sugar-free blackberry liqueur, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and bourbon, this cocktail presents a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors. The addition of garnishes such as blackberries and fresh mint elevates the drink’s refreshing appeal, making it an ideal choice for sizzling summer days.
By virtue of its innovative twist on the classic gin bramble, this cocktail offers a thrilling alternative for those seeking to explore new flavor profiles. If you’re in search of a delectable and low-carb cocktail experience, the Bourbon Bramble Sugar Free Keto Cocktail is undoubtedly worth trying.
Bourbon Old Fashioned
Elevating the classic Bourbon Old Fashioned to new heights, this keto-friendly cocktail remains true to its origins while introducing innovative elements that amplify its flavor profile. Essential ingredients include bourbon, sugar, bitters, orange, and a cherry, all of which work in harmony to create a truly exceptional drinking experience.
Exemplifying bar-style quality is the use of turbinado sugar and Maraska cherries, which add depth and complexity to the drink without overpowering its bold spirit. Enhancing the citrus notes with a spritzed orange peel provides the perfect balance, allowing the rich flavors of the bourbon to shine through.
Chai Old Fashioned
Generally speaking, the Chai Old Fashioned is a masterful reinterpretation of the classic bourbon cocktail. Its distinctive flavor profile is achieved through the use of a brown sugar-chai simple syrup and citrusy bitters, which perfectly complement each other to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. As you sip this warm and comforting drink, the rich flavor of the bourbon harmoniously blends with the aromatic spices of the chai, resulting in a truly satisfying experience.
The final touches are expertly added through the inclusion of an orange peel slice, Luxardo cherry, and cinnamon stick, elevating this already delicious cocktail to new heights. Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon connoisseur or simply looking for a drink that exudes warmth and comfort, the Chai Old Fashioned is undoubtedly worth trying.
