Preparation
When it comes to leveling up your at-home cocktail game, bar tools and glassware probably come to mind first. We’re here to let you in on a little secret, though: Ice molds are another easy way to upgrade your cocktail game, and they’re a less expensive investment. They add a touch of fun and personality to shaken drinks as well as to large-batch cocktails and punches. What’s more, these often larger ice cubes cool your drinks down without diluting them as much.
If you’re in the market for a fancy ice mold, beverage director of The Garret Bars Max Stampa-Brown recommends looking for a silicone mold that’s smooth on the inside. “As long as there’s a robust shape, you can’t go wrong,” he says. Stephanie Reading, bar manager at Birdie G’s in Santa Monica, California, is all about large ice molds for drinks. “I try to find the largest molds I can,” she says. “For example, I use two by two-inch cubes for my old fashioneds and other stirred drinks that go on the rocks, since the larger the cube, the slower it will melt and water down the drink.” She adds that ice molds with lids are great for storage, as they can be stacked in your freezer or in a cupboard when they’re not being used.
Most Festive: Martha Stewart Collection Candy Cane Ice TrayBest Rose: TINANA Rose Ice Cube TrayBest Snowflake: TrueZoo Snowflake Silicone Ice Cube TrayMost Playful: LEGO Silicone Ice Cube TrayBest Set: Glacio Silicone Ice Cube Trays
