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You don’t have to give up the good things just because you’re quitting sugar or trying to stick to natural sweeteners. When you out for some coffee or out drinking with friends, you stick to your no-sugar rule quite easily. Most people think iced coffees or cocktails come with a ton of sugar but that’s not true! In fact, if you communicate with baristas or mixologists, they can offer plenty of sugar-free suggestions.
Specify your preferences clearly, requesting no added syrups, sauces, or sweeteners. Ask about sugar-free alternatives such as stevia, erythritol, or other natural sweeteners if you prefer a touch of sweetness. Black teas, cold brews etc are easy options are don’t come with sugar, while there are plenty of spirited blends that feature zero to no sugar. Let’s find out more.
Sugar-Free Coffee Options
When ordering coffee at a cafe, there are several sugar-free choices available. Black coffee is the simplest option, consisting of brewed coffee without any added syrups or sweeteners. It's a naturally sugar-free and low-calorie choice, ideal for those looking to avoid added sugars altogether. Espresso is another excellent option, offering a concentrated shot of coffee without any added sugars.
It provides a bold and intense flavour, perfect for espresso enthusiasts who prefer their coffee straight and strong. For a milder option, consider an Americano, which is made by diluting espresso with hot water. It retains a robust coffee flavour while being sugar-free. Cold brew coffee is brewed without heat over an extended period, resulting in a naturally sweeter taste without added sugars. It can be enjoyed on its own or with a splash of milk or creamer, depending on your preferences.
Sugar-Free Tea Varieties
For tea enthusiasts, there are several sugar-free options to explore. Hot tea such as green tea, and black tea, or herbal teas like chamomile or peppermint are naturally free of sugar when brewed plain. Simply request your preferred tea without any added sweeteners or syrups. Iced tea can also be enjoyed sugar-free by opting for unsweetened varieties or asking for no added sugar. Many cafes offer a selection of herbal or fruit-infused iced teas that are naturally sweet without added sugars, making them refreshing choices during warmer weather.
Sugar-Free Mocktails
For those looking for non-alcoholic options, sugar-free mocktails are a great choice at bars or cafes. Virgin Mojitos made with fresh mint, lime juice, and soda water can be sweetened with sugar-free syrups or natural sweeteners like stevia. Virgin Marys, a non-alcoholic version of Bloody Mary, can be made without added sugars by using tomato juice, Worcestershire sauce, and spices. Additionally, fruit-infused sparkling water mixed with fresh fruits or herbs provides a refreshing and sugar-free alternative to traditional mocktails.
Sugar-Free Cocktails
When ordering cocktails, it's essential to specify sugar-free preferences to the bartender. Opt for drinks that rely on ingredients naturally low in sugars, such as vodka sodas, which combine vodka with soda water and a splash of lime or lemon juice. Gin and tonics made with sugar-free tonic water and a wedge of lime offer a crisp and refreshing choice. Dry martinis or Manhattan cocktails made without added syrups or sweet vermouth can also be enjoyed as sugar-free options, ensuring a sophisticated drink without added sugars.
Sugar-free milkshakes and smoothies
For those craving creamy and indulgent treats, cafes often offer sugar-free alternatives to traditional milkshakes and smoothies. Protein shakes made with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk, blended with protein powder and ice, provide a nutritious and sugar-free option.
Avocado smoothies made with avocado, unsweetened almond milk, spinach, and a dash of vanilla extract can be sweetened with sugar-free sweeteners like erythritol or stevia. These alternatives offer creamy textures and satisfying flavours without the added sugars typically found in milkshakes and smoothies.
