There are times when cooks don't have what they need on hand. That doesn't mean they always rush out to purchase new items. Many items in a kitchen can be used for different purposes. You might be surprised at the number of things that can be used as an ice mold.
Cake Pans and Gelatin Molds
Bundt cake pans and gelatin molds are the perfect molds for ice rings. Ice rings are a wonderful way to keep large bowls of punch cold. They can also be decorative and flavorful. The first way to add interest to the ice ring is to choose a cake pan or gelatin mold with a distinctive shape or design. For flavor, use punch in the mold instead of water. Fruit can be layered in the mold for a colorful look. To create layers, fill a third of the mold with punch and freeze. Add a layer of fruit and fill another third of the mold with punch. Repeat the process once more. When you are ready to serve, dip the mold into warm water until the sides release. A blowdryer can also be used. Once the , carefully flip the mold upside down to release the ice ring and add it to the punch bowl.
Silicone Bakeware
Silicone bakeware comes in a variety of different shapes and sizes. There's a silicone mold to suit every occasion. Ice frozen into heart-shaped cupcake pans can be a fun way to dress up Valentine's Day drinks. Grape juice could be poured into bat-shaped molds and the ice bats added to a green punch for Halloween. Silicone is nonstick and the ice will easily release from the molds.
Paper Cups
When all else fails, paper cups are a simple solution. Just add a favorite punch, tea or lemonade and freeze. Paper cups are usually lined with food-grade wax, which makes them nonstick and easy to tear off. Best of all, the size of the ice can be adjusted simply be adding more or less liquid. If you like, you can also add fruit or candies for added flavor.
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