5 Cocktails to Serve in a Copper Mug (That Aren’t a Moscow Mule)

There’s a lot to love about copper mugs – they are timelessly stylish yet also undeniably practical. So we couldn’t be happier that they’ve made such a resounding comeback. Their popularity in the US is inextricably linked to the Moscow Mule. Legend has it that the cocktail served in a now iconic copper mug was dreamed up in 1941 by three businessmen trying to make their wares – vodka, ginger beer, and copper mugs – more appealing to Americans. It proved to be a winning combination, and the rest is history.

Thanks to the classic cocktail revival, Moscow Mules have reached a new peak of popularity, and with them those chic copper mugs . If you think this beverage workhorse is a one trick pony, think again. Since they retain both hot and cold so beautifully, copper mugs are the perfect vessel for all manner of drinks, all year long. Of course, their high thermal conductivity means you should practice caution when serving piping hot drinks in them. But if it’s cool enough to comfortably drink, then the copper mugs  should be cool enough to handle.

So rather than letting your show-stopping copper mugs collect dust, break them out next time you are serving cocktails, both warm and cold. Here are five of our favorite cocktail recipes – beyond Moscow Mules – to serve in a copper mug.

Mint Ginger Ale A refreshing combination of mint and ginger ale, this drink channels the spirit of the Moscow Mule, whether you choose to make it boozy or keep it virgin. Plus it’s always nice to have a tasty mocktail option on hand for teetotaling guests who still want to take part in the festivities.

Parker Punch Punch is the ultimate party tipple since it can often be prepped ahead and serves a crowd, leaving the host to hang out rather than mix up individual cocktails. Cranberry juice gives the Parker Punch a festive red color, while the spice syrup – infused with star anise, clove, cinnamon, allspice, and orange zest – makes it positively holiday-worthy.

Winter Sangria Combining an aromatic spiced simple syrup, fresh fruit, apple brandy, and wine, this big batch cocktail is like the love child of traditional sangria and spiced apple cider. It benefits from a few hours in the fridge, so is the ideal make-ahead accompaniment to any holiday party.

Allspice Milk Punch If you’ve never had milk punch, think of it as eggnog’s classic cocktail cousin. This creamy, single-serve milk punch recipe is flavored with allspice dram and freshly grated nutmeg, making it a comforting winter drink that’s sure to cure what ails you.

Hot Spiced Rum Cider It isn’t winter without a warm cocktail in hand, and this hot apple cider spiked with rum is sure you get you in the holiday spirit. Plus, the aromas of the mulling spices simmering with apple cider will make your home smell absolutely amazing.