Cocktails are a popular way to unwind or celebrate, but many people don’t realize how calorie-dense these drinks can be. While a glass of wine or a light beer may have around 100–150 calories, certain cocktails can pack over 500 calories in a single glass. High sugar mixers, syrups, and creamy liqueurs can quickly turn a simple drink into a dessert in a glass. Below are some of the most calorie-heavy cocktails that may be worth savoring slowly—or swapping for lighter alternatives.
Long Island Iced Tea
The Long Island Iced Tea is infamous for its high alcohol content—and equally high calorie count. Made with vodka, rum, gin, tequila, triple sec, sour mix, and cola, this cocktail delivers around 400 to 700 calories depending on the size and recipe. The mix of spirits plus sugary soda and syrupy sour mix makes it one of the heaviest drinks on any menu. While it’s strong, it’s not the best choice if you’re trying to limit your liquid calories.
Pina Colada
The Pina Colada may taste like a tropical vacation, but it’s loaded with cream of coconut, pineapple juice, and rum, which can add up to over 600 calories per glass. The cream of coconut alone contributes significant fat and sugar. Many restaurant versions are also blended with ice cream or extra syrup, pushing the calorie count even higher. It’s one of the most indulgent cocktails, often closer to a milkshake than a mixed drink.
Mudslide
If you’re ordering a Mudslide, be prepared for a cocktail that doubles as dessert. Made with vodka, Kahlúa, and Irish cream liqueur (like Baileys), it’s often blended with ice cream or heavy cream for extra richness. A standard serving can clock in at 600 to 800 calories, thanks to the high fat and sugar content. It’s delicious, no doubt, but best enjoyed as a rare treat rather than a regular go-to.
Margarita (Frozen or Large)
A classic margarita can be relatively moderate in calories, but the frozen or oversized versions served at many restaurants can reach 400 to 700 calories per drink. That’s due to large portions and mixers like pre-made sour mix and flavored liqueurs. Flavored margaritas—such as mango or strawberry—often contain even more sugar, making them one of the sneakier high-calorie cocktails on the list.
Mai Tai
The Mai Tai is another tropical favorite that’s deceptively high in calories. It typically includes rum, orange curaçao, lime juice, and orgeat syrup—a nutty, sweet syrup. One serving can carry over 350 to 500 calories, especially when made with extra syrup or juices. The sweetness masks the alcohol content, making it easy to drink more than one without realizing the calorie impact.
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