72 Creative Drink Container Ideas (Beyond The Cup!)

Hey guys! Are you tired of the same old boring cups? Want to add some spark to your next party or just your everyday hydration routine? Well, you've come to the right place! We're diving deep into the wonderfully wacky world of "Anything But a Cup" (ABAC) container ideas. Get ready to ditch the disposables and embrace your inner creative genius. We’ve got a whopping 72 ideas to get your inspiration flowing, plus 5 fun drink recipes to try out in your newfound vessels. So, buckle up, buttercups, and let’s get this party started!

Unleash Your Inner Mixologist: 72 Anything But a Cup Container Ideas

Forget those mundane mugs and predictable plastic cups! Let's explore a universe of unique, quirky, and downright awesome alternatives. This isn't just about drinking; it's about making a statement, sparking conversation, and having a whole lot of fun. Think outside the box (or, you know, the cup!) and prepare to be amazed by the sheer ingenuity we're about to unleash. From childhood toys to kitchen staples, everything is fair game in the ABAC arena. We're talking about containers that tell a story, containers that make you smile, and containers that will definitely have your friends asking, "Where did you get that?!"

From the Kitchen: Culinary Container Creations

The kitchen is a goldmine of potential ABAC containers! Think beyond the usual glassware and tap into the culinary creativity around you. Your pantry and drawers are brimming with possibilities, just waiting to be discovered. Don't be afraid to get a little messy (in a fun way, of course!) and experiment with different shapes, sizes, and textures. Consider the overall aesthetic you're going for – are you aiming for rustic charm, sleek modernity, or whimsical fun? The kitchen holds the key to unlocking a whole new level of beverage enjoyment. Remember to thoroughly clean any food-related containers before using them for drinks!

• Mason Jars: These rustic classics are perfect for everything from iced tea to cocktails. Add a handle for extra convenience!
• Pitchers: Okay, this one might seem a little obvious, but a beautifully crafted pitcher can elevate any drink. Think beyond your standard glass pitcher and explore options made from ceramic, copper, or even hammered metal.
• Teapots: Embrace your inner tea party host (or hostess!) and serve up some delicious concoctions in a charming teapot. Just be mindful of the spout when pouring!
• Soup Bowls: A fun and unexpected way to serve chilled soups or gazpacho, but could also work for a thicker smoothie or even a unique cocktail presentation.
• Gravy Boats: For those who like to live life on the edge (and maybe enjoy a good gravy…or just a quirky drink presentation!), a gravy boat can be surprisingly chic.
• Casserole Dishes (Small): Individual casserole dishes can be adorable for serving a single-portion drink, especially something layered or visually appealing.
• Measuring Cups: Embrace the practicality of measuring cups – just make sure they're thoroughly cleaned! The clear glass also lets you show off colorful drinks.
• Mixing Bowls (Small): A mini mixing bowl can be a fun, shareable option for a group drink or a super-sized single serving. Add some straws and let the party begin!
• Jelly Molds: These vintage-inspired molds add a touch of nostalgia to your drink presentation. Think about using different shapes and sizes for a whimsical effect.
• Bundt Pans (Mini): A mini Bundt pan creates a unique ring shape for your drink, perfect for adding a decorative garnish or fruit slices.
• Ice Cube Trays (Large or Shaped): While technically for making ice, a large or shaped ice cube tray can also hold a small amount of liquid for a shot or a fun, frozen treat.
• Cookie Cutters (Large): Use a large cookie cutter as a mold to create a frozen drink shape or a solid block of flavored ice.
• Colanders (Small): A small colander, lined with a coffee filter or cheesecloth, can be used to strain a drink or create a layered effect.
• Funnel: Use a funnel to layer different colored drinks or create a cool swirling effect.
• Spice Jars (Large): Empty spice jars, especially the larger ones, can be cute and quirky individual serving containers.
• Olive Oil Dispensers: A sleek olive oil dispenser can be a surprisingly elegant way to serve infused water or a simple cocktail.
• Salt and Pepper Shakers (Large): For a truly miniature serving, large salt and pepper shakers can add a touch of whimsy.
• Butter Dishes: A butter dish with a lid can keep your drink chilled and protected from bugs, perfect for outdoor gatherings.
• Egg Cartons (Cleaned): For a truly unique and conversation-starting option, cleaned egg cartons can hold individual servings of colorful drinks. Just be careful with spills!

Toy Time: Playful Pouring Possibilities

Let's rewind to our childhoods and tap into the boundless creativity of the toy box! Toys offer a fantastic array of shapes, sizes, and colors, making them ideal candidates for ABAC containers. This is where things can get really fun and playful. Think vibrant colors, unexpected forms, and a healthy dose of nostalgia. Of course, safety is paramount, so make sure any toy containers are thoroughly cleaned and free of any harmful chemicals before using them for drinks. Let your imagination run wild and see what treasures you can unearth!

• Toy Buckets: Small sand buckets are perfect for beach-themed parties or just adding a touch of summery fun. Think colorful plastic or even galvanized metal.
• Toy Shovels: Use a toy shovel to scoop and serve frozen drinks or slushies. It's a fun and interactive way to enjoy a cold treat!
• Building Blocks (Large): Hollow building blocks can be surprisingly sturdy drink containers. Just make sure they're clean and watertight.
• Toy Trucks: Fill the bed of a toy truck with ice and drinks for a playful and portable beverage station.
• Dinosaur Toys (Hollow): Hollow plastic dinosaurs can be surprisingly chic (in a prehistoric kind of way!) for serving drinks. Look for larger sizes for best results.
• Baby Bottles (Cleaned and Unused): A cleaned and unused baby bottle can be a fun gag gift or a quirky way to serve a small drink. Just make sure it's BPA-free.
• Sippy Cups (Adult-Sized Gag Gift): For a hilarious twist, find an adult-sized sippy cup! This is sure to get some laughs at your next party.
• Rubber Duckies (Large, Hollow): A large, hollow rubber ducky can be a whimsical and waterproof drink container.
• Toy Teapots and Teacups: Scale up the fun with larger toy teapots and teacups for a playful tea party vibe.
• Action Figure Helmets: The helmet of a large action figure can make a surprisingly cool and unconventional drink container. Especially great for superhero-themed parties!

The Great Outdoors: Nature-Inspired Navigation

The great outdoors offers a wealth of inspiration for unique drink containers. Think natural textures, earthy tones, and a connection to the environment. This category is all about embracing the beauty of nature and bringing a touch of the wilderness to your beverage experience. From seashells to coconuts, there are endless possibilities to explore. Just remember to be mindful of the environment and avoid using anything that could be harmful or disruptive to the natural ecosystem. Always clean and sanitize any natural containers thoroughly before use.

• Coconuts (Hollowed): A classic tropical drink container! Hollow out a coconut and serve your favorite tropical cocktail or smoothie. Garnish with a tiny umbrella for extra flair!
• Pineapples (Hollowed): Similar to coconuts, hollowed-out pineapples add a touch of exotic flair to any drink. Plus, they smell amazing!
• Seashells (Large): Large seashells, thoroughly cleaned and sanitized, can make stunning and unique drink vessels. Just be mindful of their stability.
• Gourds (Dried and Hollowed): Dried and hollowed gourds offer a rustic and earthy vibe. They can be especially beautiful for fall-themed gatherings.
• Bamboo Cups: Bamboo cups are a sustainable and stylish option for outdoor gatherings. They're also lightweight and durable.
• Leaves (Large, Used as a Liner): Use large leaves (like banana leaves or fig leaves) to line a bowl or other container for a natural and biodegradable presentation.
• Stones (Hollowed or with Natural Depressions): If you find a stone with a natural depression, it can make a cool and rustic drink container. Just make sure it's stable and clean.
• Tree Bark (Large Pieces, Shaped into a Container): With some creativity and skill, you can shape large pieces of tree bark into unique and natural-looking containers. Be sure to use bark from fallen trees or branches.

Everyday Objects: Unexpected Elegance

Sometimes the most surprising drink containers are hiding in plain sight, disguised as everyday objects. This category is all about challenging your perceptions and seeing the potential for creativity in the mundane. Think about the shapes, sizes, and textures of the objects around you. A little bit of imagination can transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. You might be surprised at how elegant and unexpected these containers can be!

• Flower Pots (Clean, Unused): Small, clean flower pots can be surprisingly chic drink containers, especially for garden parties or outdoor gatherings. Terracotta pots add a rustic touch.
• Vases (Small): A small vase, especially one with an interesting shape or texture, can be a beautiful and elegant way to serve a single drink.
• Bowls (Various Materials): Bowls of all shapes and sizes can work as drink containers. Think ceramic, glass, metal, or even wooden bowls for a rustic touch.
• Jars (Various Sizes and Shapes): Beyond Mason jars, explore different types of jars, like vintage apothecary jars or even pickle jars (thoroughly cleaned, of course!).
• Cans (Cleaned and Deburred): Cleaned and deburred tin cans can have a cool, industrial-chic vibe. Just be careful of sharp edges!
• Bottles (Repurposed): Repurpose interesting bottles, like wine bottles or fancy olive oil bottles, into unique drink containers. You can even cut them down to create custom sizes.
• Light Bulbs (Hollowed – Proceed with Extreme Caution!): This is an advanced DIY project, but a hollowed-out light bulb can make a truly unique and eye-catching drink container. Only attempt this if you are experienced with glass cutting and safety procedures. Wear appropriate safety gear and proceed with extreme caution!
• Ornaments (Large, Hollow): Large, hollow ornaments, especially those with interesting shapes or textures, can be fun and festive drink containers. Great for holiday parties!
• Globes (Cut in Half): A globe cut in half can make a dramatic and conversation-starting drink container, perfect for travel-themed parties.
• Books (Hollowed Out – Decorative): A hollowed-out book is more for decorative presentation than actual drinking, but it can be a fun way to display a bottle or a set of glasses.
• Picture Frames (Used as a Tray for Glasses): While not a container itself, a picture frame can be used as a stylish tray to hold a collection of glasses or other drink containers.

Themed Events: Tailored Tankards

For themed events, the possibilities for ABAC containers are truly endless! This is your chance to get super creative and tailor your drink presentation to the specific occasion. Think about the theme, the colors, and the overall mood you want to create. From pirate-themed parties to sci-fi soirées, there's a perfect ABAC container out there just waiting to be discovered. Let your imagination run wild and don't be afraid to go all out!

• Pirate Chests (Small): For a pirate-themed party, a small treasure chest filled with drinks is a must-have! Think rum punch or grog served in rustic mugs.
• Cauldrons (Small): Perfect for Halloween parties or witch-themed gatherings, a small cauldron can be used to serve spooky cocktails or mocktails.
• Tiki Mugs: A classic choice for tiki parties, tiki mugs come in a variety of fun and colorful designs. They're also great for everyday use if you love the tropical vibe.
• Martini Glasses (Oversized Novelty): Oversized novelty martini glasses are perfect for a glamorous and fun cocktail party.
• Shot Glasses (Themed): Themed shot glasses, like those shaped like skulls or animals, can add a touch of personality to your bar setup.
• Champagne Flutes (Decorated): Decorate champagne flutes with paint, glitter, or ribbon to match your party theme. Think elegant designs for weddings or festive decorations for holiday celebrations.
• Mason Jar Mugs (Decorated): Similar to champagne flutes, Mason jar mugs can be decorated to match any theme. Add paint, twine, or even small charms for a personal touch.
• Pails (Galvanized or Colored): Galvanized or colored pails are perfect for serving drinks at outdoor barbecues or casual gatherings. Fill them with ice and your favorite beverages.
• Coffee Mugs (Themed): Themed coffee mugs, like those with funny sayings or pop culture references, can be a fun and quirky choice for serving coffee, tea, or even cocktails.
• Wine Glasses (Stemless, Decorated): Stemless wine glasses are more stable than stemmed glasses, making them a great choice for outdoor events. Decorate them with paint or stickers to match your theme.

Unexpected Vessels: Wild and Wonderful Ways to Wet Your Whistle

This is where we really push the boundaries of ABAC thinking! These ideas are for the truly adventurous, the ones who dare to be different and embrace the unexpected. We're talking about containers that might raise an eyebrow or two, but will definitely spark conversation and create lasting memories. Just remember to prioritize safety and hygiene, and always clean your containers thoroughly before use. Get ready to unleash your inner rebel and redefine the art of drinking!

• Shoes (Clean, Unused Boots): This one's definitely out there! A clean, unused boot can be a surprisingly stylish (and sturdy) drink container. Great for a rugged or Western-themed party.
• Purses (Clean, Lined): A clean purse, lined with a waterproof material, can be a fun and fashionable way to serve drinks. Think a clutch purse for individual servings or a larger tote bag for a group drink.
• Hats (Clean, Lined): Similar to purses, a clean hat, lined with a waterproof material, can be a quirky and unexpected drink container. A cowboy hat would be perfect for a Western-themed party!
• Gloves (Clean, Latex or Nitrile, Used as a Mold): Fill a clean latex or nitrile glove with liquid and freeze it to create a hand-shaped ice sculpture that can chill your drink.
• Watering Cans (Small, Clean): A small, clean watering can is a charming and whimsical way to serve drinks at a garden party.
• Birdcages (Small, Used as a Decorative Holder): A small birdcage can be used as a decorative holder for glasses or other drink containers.
• Toolboxes (Small, Clean): A small, clean toolbox can be a fun and unexpected way to serve drinks at a construction-themed party or a casual gathering.
• Trophies (Clean): A clean trophy, especially one with a large bowl, can be a fun and celebratory drink container. Perfect for a sports-themed party!

5 Delicious Drink Recipes to Try in Your ABAC Containers

Now that you're armed with a plethora of creative container ideas, let's talk drinks! These 5 recipes are perfect for showcasing your newfound ABAC skills. They're delicious, refreshing, and guaranteed to impress your guests (or just yourself!). So, grab your chosen vessel, gather your ingredients, and let's get mixing!

1. Sparkling Raspberry Lemonade

This refreshing drink is perfect for a summer afternoon or a garden party. The bright flavors and bubbly texture make it a crowd-pleaser. Serve it in a Mason jar, a flower pot, or even a hollowed-out pineapple for extra flair.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup fresh raspberries
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup lemon juice
  • 4 cups sparkling water
  • Fresh raspberries and lemon slices for garnish
• Instructions:
  1. In a saucepan, combine raspberries, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
  2. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve, discarding the solids.
  3. Let the syrup cool completely.
  4. In a large pitcher or your chosen ABAC container, combine the syrup, lemon juice, and sparkling water.
  5. Serve over ice and garnish with fresh raspberries and lemon slices.

2. Tropical Coconut Cooler

Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with this creamy and flavorful coconut cooler. Served in a hollowed-out coconut, a tiki mug, or even a clean toy bucket, this drink is sure to bring the vacation vibes.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
  • 1 cup pineapple juice
  • 1/2 cup orange juice
  • 1/4 cup lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons sugar (or to taste)
  • Ice
  • Pineapple wedges and coconut flakes for garnish
• Instructions:
  1. In a blender, combine coconut milk, pineapple juice, orange juice, lime juice, and sugar.
  2. Blend until smooth.
  3. Pour over ice in your chosen ABAC container.
  4. Garnish with pineapple wedges and coconut flakes.

3. Spiced Apple Cider Sangria

This warm and comforting sangria is perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights in. Serve it in a teapot, a cauldron, or even a large mason jar for a rustic touch.

• Ingredients:
  • 6 cups apple cider
  • 1 bottle (750 ml) red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
  • 1/2 cup brandy
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup (or to taste)
  • 2 apples, cored and sliced
  • 2 oranges, sliced
  • 4 cinnamon sticks
  • Star anise for garnish (optional)
• Instructions:
  1. In a large pot or your chosen ABAC container, combine apple cider, red wine, brandy, maple syrup, apples, oranges, and cinnamon sticks.
  2. Stir well to combine.
  3. Heat gently over low heat for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
  4. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  5. Serve warm and garnish with star anise, if desired.

4. Cucumber Mint Infused Water

Stay hydrated in style with this refreshing and subtly flavored infused water. Serve it in an olive oil dispenser, a repurposed bottle, or even a large glass vase for an elegant presentation.

• Ingredients:
  • 8 cups water
  • 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
  • Lemon slices (optional)
• Instructions:
  1. In a large pitcher or your chosen ABAC container, combine water, cucumber slices, and mint leaves.
  2. Stir gently.
  3. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to infuse.
  4. Serve chilled and add lemon slices, if desired.

5. Watermelon Margarita

This fruity and festive margarita is perfect for summer parties or Cinco de Mayo celebrations. Serve it in a hollowed-out watermelon, a salt-rimmed mason jar, or even a clean toy bucket for a playful touch.

• Ingredients:
  • 4 cups cubed watermelon
  • 1 cup tequila
  • 1/2 cup lime juice
  • 1/4 cup orange liqueur (such as Cointreau or Triple Sec)
  • 2 tablespoons agave nectar (or to taste)
  • Ice
  • Lime wedges and salt for rimming glasses (optional)
• Instructions:
  1. In a blender, combine watermelon, tequila, lime juice, orange liqueur, and agave nectar.
  2. Blend until smooth.
  3. If desired, salt the rims of your chosen ABAC containers by rubbing a lime wedge around the rim and dipping it in salt.
  4. Fill the containers with ice and pour in the margarita mixture.
  5. Garnish with lime wedges and serve immediately.

Conclusion: Drink Outside the Cup!

So there you have it, folks! 72 amazing "Anything But a Cup" container ideas and 5 delicious drink recipes to get you started. It’s time to break free from the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary. Whether you're hosting a party, spicing up your daily hydration, or just looking for a creative outlet, the ABAC world is your oyster. Remember to always prioritize safety and hygiene when choosing your containers, and most importantly, have fun! Cheers to thinking outside the cup and to a world of delicious and creative drinking experiences!