How To Keep Ice Cubes Frozen Longer

  • January 16, 2009
  • 8,375 Views
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Ok, it’s not the biggest problem in the world, but an ice bucket full of water is a not-so-subtle hint that the party’s over. Make your cubes last until the final guest has had their fill.

You Will Need

  • Boiled water
  • Large ice trays
  • Insulation, like bubble wrap or cloth
  • Muffin tins (optional)
How To Keep Ice Cubes Frozen Longer: Boil the water

Step 1: Boil the water

Boil the water before you put it into the ice cube trays. This removes the air bubbles, which makes the cubes last longer and look nicer, too—crystal clear instead of cloudy.

If your trays are plastic, be sure to let the water cool down before you pour it in!

How To Keep Ice Cubes Frozen Longer: Make them bigger

Step 2: Make them bigger

Smaller ice cubes melt faster (and crushed ice melts the fastest), so use the biggest trays you can find, or make ice “chunks” by freezing water in mini-muffin tins.

For an average cocktail party, you should have at least two-thirds of a pound of ice per guest.

How To Keep Ice Cubes Frozen Longer: Insulate the bucket

Step 3: Insulate the bucket

Line your ice bucket with bubble wrap or a dish towel before putting the cubes in; the insulation slows down heat transfer, so they don’t melt as quickly.

How To Keep Ice Cubes Frozen Longer: Use a lid

Step 4: Use a lid

Cover your ice bucket with a lid to prevent warm air from reaching the cubes. Keep your cool.

Americans use the most ice cubes in the world.

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Comments (1)

jason

luv it - great vid - my ice is always running out!! :(

over 3 years ago by jason

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Video is in Summer Party Guide (18 videos)