Keto Cranberry Margarita Mocktail

This drink pairs the tartness of sugar-free cranberry juice with lime and tops it with sparkling water. A tablespoon of erythritol takes the edge off, and tequila is optional if you want it closer to a real margarita. It makes one serving and takes 5 minutes.

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Nothing needs shaking or blending. You stir the juices and sweetener in a glass, add ice, and pour the sparkling water over the top.

What Goes in the Glass

• Sugar-free cranberry juice (2 oz): the tart, red base. Using the sugar-free kind keeps the drink keto-friendly.
• Lime juice (1 oz): fresh juice balances the sweetness with bright acidity.
• Sparkling water (4 oz): the fizz that makes it light and bubbly.
• Tequila (1 oz, optional): brings the traditional margarita note. Leave it out for a fully non-alcoholic drink.
• Erythritol (1 tablespoon): replaces sugar without the carbs. Adjust it to taste.
• Lime slice and fresh cranberries: the garnish, which adds color and a little aroma as you drink.

Getting the Balance Right

Stir the cranberry juice, lime juice and erythritol until the sweetener dissolves, then add the tequila if you are using it. Fill the glass with ice, top with the sparkling water and garnish. Serve it right away, while it is still fizzy.

Cranberry and lime are both sharp, so the sweetener decides how the drink tastes. Start with the 1 tablespoon and adjust from there, since everyone’s palate differs. Chilling the ingredients and the glass first keeps the drink cold longer.

Variations

• Other juices: a splash of orange or pineapple juice adds sweetness. Keep the amount small so the drink stays low in carbs.
• Fresh herbs: muddle a few mint or basil leaves in the glass before adding the other ingredients.
• Heat: a dash of jalapeño or a few slices of fresh chili gives a sharp contrast to the tart and sweet flavors.
• Frozen or pitcher: serve it frozen, or scale it up in a pitcher for a group.
• Rim: rim the glass with salt or a sugar-free alternative.

Serving It

Light bites suit the drink well, such as cucumber sandwiches, a cheese platter or shrimp cocktail. The color suits Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s tables. For those, serve it in festive glassware with rosemary sprigs or cranberries on skewers as garnish.

Nutrition per Serving

One drink has about 50 calories, 3 grams of carbohydrates, 1 gram of fiber, 1 gram of sugar, no fat or protein and 5 milligrams of sodium.

FAQ

What is in a keto cranberry margarita mocktail?

Sugar-free cranberry juice, lime juice, sparkling water and erythritol, with tequila as an option.

Can I make it without tequila?

Yes. The tequila is optional, and the drink is still tart and fizzy without it.

How many calories does it have?

About 50 per serving.

How long does it take?

5 minutes, with no cooking.

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Written and edited by The Foodie Yummy Kitchen Team

The Foodie Yummy Kitchen Team writes and edits the recipes on Foodie Yummy: classic American potluck salads, holiday sides and easy comfort food, with a few low-carb options. Every recipe lists exact quantities, numbered steps and a printable recipe card, plus notes on swaps, storage and make-ahead timing. Spot a problem with a recipe? Tell us through the contact page and we will correct it. About us