Kitchen Tip: Ice cube trays are not just for making ice

They come in plastic, metal, rubber and have a variety of colors and shapes. Ice cube trays are not just for making ice anymore. This tray will help you with your cooking needs. Check out some of these creative ideas.

Herbs – Mix fresh herbs in with water or stock to use later on soups, sauces, or sautees.

Stock – Fill stock in trays and use for sauces, soups, etc.

Coffee – Got milk? Add these cubes for iced coffee.

Lemons – Put them in juices and iced tea; instant Arnold Palmer.

Pesto – Freeze to use year-round

Caramelized Onions – Easy access for future dinners

Baby Food – Do you make your own? Or need space in the cabinet? Freeze and thaw when ready to enjoy. 4-6 months = 2 cubes; 6-9 months = 4 cubes; 9-12 months= 6 cubes 

Drinks – Freeze the actual drink and use them as cubes instead of water.

Tomato Paste – Use when a recipe calls for small portions (ex. 1 or 2 tsp.)

Egg Whites – Freeze for later use when a recipe only calls for the yolks.

Wine – Freeze and use in your next batch of spaghetti sauce or scampi.

Popsicles – Got juice? Make Popsicles with sticks.

Jell-O – Great idea for kids portion.

Dessert Buffet – Fill each compartment with sprinkles, nuts, candy, etc.

Now below are some non-cooking ideas for ice cube trays


Jewelry – Place small items in the compartments for safekeeping.

Screws & Bolts – Easy to find when you need to hang a picture on the wall.

Paint – Kids want to paint pictures? Add a different color to each section.

Vitamins & Pills – Separate your medicine for the week.

We hope you enjoyed these creative ways to use ice cube trays. Got any other ideas? Let us know!