Which Irish Coffee Mugs Are Best?
St. Patricks Day reminds me that there are few libations as effective as a warm Irish coffee — sweet, smooth and boozy. Combine a spirit, a liqueur, fresh-brewed coffee and a whip cream topper in a signature glass Irish coffee mug. An Irish coffee mug is perfect for all of your hot beverages, boozy or not, including hot toddies, mulled cider and wine, cappuccinos and hot chocolates. But before you spend your hard-earned cash on a new set of Irish coffee mugs, make sure you’re committing to the best in quality and style to ensure your experience stays warm and cozy.
What to know before you buy Irish coffee mugs
An Irish coffee mug has a few standard characteristics, like an ear-shaped handle, an elevated curvy body and a wide and heavy base. In most cases, it’s made from clear glass or another heat-treated material that ensures your coffee stays warm longer.
Quantity
Irish coffee mugs are typically available in sets of four or more. So, if you are looking to throw a party or share with friends, for the best value, look for sets of two or more because solo mugs are usually more expensive.
Size
The standard size of an Irish coffee mug is 8-8.5 ounces in volume.
Style
Irish coffee mugs are typically designed with a curvy mug top and ear-shaped handle, elevated slightly by a pedestal base and bottom-weighted for stability. However, there are plenty of modern designs and classy variations that give them a distinguished look that isn’t reminiscent of restaurant glassware. If you are looking for a mug that stands out, there are mugs with celtic symbols etched into the glass.
What to look for in quality Irish coffee mugs
Materials
Look for tempered or heat-treated glasses for higher heat retention and durability. Newer glass models may also be double walled for extra heat retention and a unique visual element.
Components
One of the most essential elements of a good Irish coffee mug is a weighted base that prevents spills and breaks, as well as a well-adhered handle. Make sure your handle isn’t too small or oddly placed on the glass to reduce the potential for breakage even further. The curved shape of the glass is not a necessity, but a flared lip at the top provides more surface area for the whipped cream topper.
Cost?
Irish coffee mugs are typically available in sets that cost $20-$40, although some individual novelty glasses run for $15-$20. Antique sets and fancier models made from expensive glass can surpass $50.
How to make Irish coffee?
Preheat your mug with hot water. After discarding the water, add 1 ounce of Irish whiskey, a half-ounce of Irish cream or similar liqueur and 2 teaspoons of brown or raw sugar to the glass. Stir to incorporate the sugar with the liquor before adding freshly brewed coffee, leaving a half-inch of room below the rim. Top with whipped cream and any other flourishes. For a boozier beverage, use 1.5 ounces of Irish whiskey.
What’s the best Irish coffee mug to buy?
Top Irish coffee mugs
Libbey 8 ½ Ounce Irish Coffee Mug Set
What you need to know: This four-piece set is made in the USA by Libbey, the premier foodservice glassware company, and is the archetypical Irish coffee mug in appearance and function.
What you’ll love: Dishwasher-safe, classic visual appeal, durable glass.
What you should consider: Durable glass is still breakable.
