Summer is a time for relaxation, poolside parties, and refreshing cocktails. As the temperature rises, so does our desire for cool and tasty beverages. However, many summer cocktails are notorious for being high in calories and sugar.

If you’re watching your waistline but still want to enjoy a delicious drink, it can be helpful to know which cocktails are the most calorie-laden. In this article, we will explore a graph depicting the 13 most beloved summer cocktails ranked by their calorie content.

The Importance of Counting Calories

Counting calories is a common method used to manage weight, as it helps individuals keep track of their energy intake.

To maintain a healthy weight, it is essential to strike a balance between the calories consumed and the calories burned through physical activity. While enjoying the occasional cocktail during summer gatherings is perfectly fine, excessive calorie consumption from cocktails can lead to weight gain and other health issues.

The 13 Most Beloved Summer Cocktails

1. Margarita: One of the most popular summer cocktails, the Margarita typically combines tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur. However, its combination of sugary mixers can make it a high-calorie choice.

On average, a Margarita can contain around 300-400 calories.

2. Piña Colada: Known for its tropical and creamy taste, a Piña Colada is a cocktail made with rum, coconut cream, and pineapple juice.

Unfortunately, this delicious drink can pack a punch when it comes to calories, often ranging between 400-500 calories per serving.

3. Mojito: The Mojito is a refreshing cocktail made with rum, lime juice, sugar, mint leaves, and club soda. While its ingredients may seem harmless, the added sugar can significantly increase its calorie content.

A single Mojito can range from 150-250 calories.

4. Mai Tai: Originating from Polynesia, the Mai Tai is a tropical rum-based cocktail that often includes a combination of light and dark rum, orange curaçao, lime juice, and orgeat syrup.

This cocktail is known for its fruity flavors but can also be a caloric bomb, averaging around 350-450 calories per serving.

5. Long Island Iced Tea: Despite its name, the Long Island Iced Tea is not your typical iced tea. This cocktail is a potent mix of vodka, rum, tequila, gin, triple sec, lemon juice, and cola.

Due to its many spirits and mixers, this drink can contain anywhere from 200-400 calories.

6. Daiquiri: A classic Daiquiri consists of rum, lime juice, and a sweetener such as sugar or simple syrup. While it may seem relatively light, the amount of added sugar can quickly increase its calorie count.

A single Daiquiri can contain approximately 200-300 calories.

7. Cosmopolitan: Popularized by the TV show “Sex and the City,” the Cosmopolitan is a vodka-based cocktail mixed with cranberry juice, lime juice, and triple sec or Cointreau.

This cocktail is often associated with elegance and sophistication, but it can also deliver around 150-250 calories.

8. Sangria: Sangria is a refreshing wine-based cocktail typically combining red or white wine with fresh fruits, juice, sweeteners, and sometimes brandy.

While the exact calorie count can vary depending on the ingredients and portion size, a glass of Sangria can range from 150-250 calories.

9. Moscow Mule: A Moscow Mule is made with vodka, lime juice, and ginger beer, usually served in a copper mug. Despite its simplicity, the ginger beer and vodka combination can still contribute to about 100-200 calories per serving.

10. Mojito: The Mojito is a refreshing cocktail made with rum, lime juice, sugar, mint leaves, and club soda. While its ingredients may seem harmless, the added sugar can significantly increase its calorie content.

A single Mojito can range from 150-250 calories.

11. Mimosa: Often enjoyed during brunch, a Mimosa is made with sparkling wine and freshly squeezed orange juice. While it may seem light and fruity, the combination of alcohol and juice can result in around 100-150 calories per serving.

12. Martini: A classic Martini is made with gin and dry vermouth, often garnished with olives or a twist of lemon. Although this cocktail is less caloric compared to some others on this list, it can still contribute around 100-150 calories per drink.

13. Aperol Spritz: Originating from Italy, the Aperol Spritz is a refreshing cocktail made with Aperol, prosecco, soda water, and an orange slice.

While it is relatively light compared to other cocktails, it can still contain approximately 100-150 calories per serving.

Conclusion

While enjoying summer cocktails is a part of many people’s warm-weather traditions, it’s important to be mindful of their calorie content.

By understanding the calorie count of popular summer cocktails, you can make informed choices that align with your health and weight management goals. Remember to drink responsibly, enjoy in moderation, and consider opting for lower-calorie alternatives or modifying recipes to save on calories. Cheers to a refreshing and waistline-friendly summer!.