New year, new goals? We get it! While many of us start the year with health-focused resolutions, the thought of cutting out our favourite cocktails can feel, well, a little sad. But what if we told you it doesn’t have to be that way? Achieving your health goals doesn’t mean sacrificing the joy of a good drink—it just means being a little more mindful.

The secret lies in the ingredients. Many cocktails are loaded with sugar, which can lead to blood sugar spikes, energy crashes, and even those dreaded hangovers. You can still indulge without derailing your progress by opting for low-sugar, low-calorie options. Of course, don’t forget to check out Canada’s Low-Risk Alcohol Drinking Guidelines for tips on enjoying responsibly.

We’ve curated a list of delicious, lighter cocktails to help you toast your goals while staying on track. Each recipe is designed to bring out the best flavours with fewer calories and less sugar. Ready to sip smarter? Let’s dive in!

Cucumber Basil Spritz

This drink is an unexpected blend of fresh ingredients that’s both light and flavorful. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself!

Ingredients

• 1 ½ oz Vodka
• 1 oz Lime Juice
• 1 oz Cucumber Juice (blend a cucumber and strain)
• 3 Basil Leaves
• 1-2 drops Stevia or Monk Fruit Syrup
• Sparkling Water or Club Soda
• Ice
• Lime Wedge and Basil for garnish

Directions

In a cocktail shaker, add the basil leaves and muddle them gently to release the oils. Add the vodka, lime juice, cucumber juice, and stevia or syrup to the shaker with ice.

Shake well and strain into a glass with ice. Top with sparkling water and garnish to your preference.

Paloma Twist

Here’s a refreshing twist on the classic Paloma that’s light on calories and sugar. With a dash of fresh grapefruit and a hint of mint, this cocktail is perfect for a vibrant, guilt-free sip.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ oz Tequila Blanco
• 1 oz Fresh Grapefruit Juice
• ½ oz Fresh Lime Juice
• 3-4 Fresh Mint Leaves
• 1-2 drops Stevia or Monk Fruit Syrup
• Club Soda
• Ice
• Grapefruit Slice and Mint Sprig for garnish

Directions

Muddle the mint leaves in a shaker. Add tequila, grapefruit, lime, and sweetener, then fill with ice and shake well—strain into a glass filled with ice and top with club soda. Garnish with a grapefruit slice and mint sprig. Enjoy!

Pina Colada

Savour the tropical flavours with a lighter twist! This Pina Colada has just 10 grams of sugar, compared to the typical 30 grams, so you can enjoy the beach vibes without guilt.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ oz White Rum
• 1 oz Spiced Rum
• ½ oz Fresh Lime Juice
• ¾ oz Light Coconut Cream
• 1 ½ oz Fresh Pineapple Juice
• Fresh Nutmeg for garnish

Directions

Combine all ingredients in an ice-filled shaker and shake well. Strain into a glass and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh nutmeg. Enjoy your tropical escape!

Maple Spiced Old Fashioned

A cozy twist on a classic, this Maple Spice Whisky Old Fashioned blends warm spices and maple sweetness for a rich, smooth sip low in calories but big on flavour.

Ingredients

• 2 oz Whisky (Rye or Bourbon recommended)
• ¼ oz Pure Maple Syrup
• 2 Dashes Angostura Bitters
• 1 Dash Vanilla Extract
• Ice
• Cinnamon Stick for garnish

Directions

Stir whisky, maple syrup, bitters, and vanilla extract with ice in a mixing glass until well chilled—strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube. Garnish with a cinnamon stick for a cozy, aromatic twist. Enjoy!

Herbal Gin Fizz

With only 1 gram of sugar per serving, this guilt-free delight blends the botanical essence of gin with a hint of vermouth and effervescent soda, making it perfect for any occasion!

Ingredients

• 1 ½ oz Gin
• ½ oz Dry Vermouth
• 1 oz Unsweetened Herbal Tea (like chamomile or mint, chilled)
• 1-2 Drops Stevia or Monk Fruit Syrup
• Club Soda (to top)
• Ice
• Fresh Mint Sprig for garnish

Directions

Stir gin, vermouth, tea, and sweetener with ice in a shaker—strain into a chilled glass with fresh ice and top with club soda. Garnish with a mint sprig for a crisp, herbal finish.

Ready to sip smarter and still indulge in your favourite cocktails? We hope these lighter, low-sugar options make your new year feel extra refreshing!

But don’t stop there—if you’ve got any killer healthier cocktail recipes up your sleeve, we want to see them! Share them with us on Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok, and let’s toast with delicious drinks that won’t derail your goals. After all, the best recipes are the ones we share.

Cheers to making this year’s sips as good as your resolutions!