There are so many items in your kitchen that aren’t getting enough use. Many of these items were bought for one purpose, but that doesn’t mean that they should only be used for one thing. For example, ice cube trays are often used only to make ice cubes. But, an ice cube tray can actually be used in several creative ways. Here are just a few creative ideas to get you started.
Ten Uses for Ice Cube Trays #1: Dog Treats
Summer can be horrible on dogs, but you can offer a bit of relief if you use your ice cube trays. All you have to do is pour low-sodium chicken broth into an ice cube tray. Then on days when it’s unbearably hot, give your dog one of these treats to munch on so that they stay nice and cool.
Ten Uses for Ice Cube Trays #2: Fudge
There are several great reasons to use ice cube trays when making fudge. First of all, you don’t have to worry about cutting the fudge. But, one of the best reasons to use an ice cube tray for fudge is to ensure that you get proper portions. Just remember to butter the tray before pouring in the fudge.
Ten Uses for Ice Cube Trays #3: Small Popsicles
Small children simply can’t finish a large popsicles, that’s why ice cube trays make such a great popsicle mold. Simply pour in their favorite juice, cover the ice cube tray with plastic wrap, and then use toothpicks in place of popsicle sticks. Freeze until solid and enjoy.
Ten Uses for Ice Cube Trays #4: Leftover Chicken Stock
There are so many recipes that only call for a small amount of chicken stock. This means that you are usually left with at least half a can of chicken stock. Instead of throwing it away or placing it in the refrigerator only to throw it away later, pour the excess into ice cube trays and freeze for later use.
Ten Uses for Ice Cube Trays #5: Egg Whites
Another food that often gets throw away is egg whites. Whenever a recipe calls for egg yolks, take the egg whites and pour them into an ice cube tray. Then when you want a healthy omelet or need egg whites for a recipe, you’ll have the egg whites available, without having to waste any yolks.
Ten Uses for Ice Cube Trays #6: Jell-O Mold
If your children love Jell-O, why not do something fun and make Jell-O blocks? When you prepare your Jell-O, prepare it using the gigglers’ method. Before pouring the Jell-O into the ice cube trays, spray them with non-stick cooking spray. Then allow the Jell-O to set in the refrigerator until completely solid. Your kids will love playing with, and eating, these blocks.
Ten Uses for Ice Cube Trays #7: Candy Mold
Ice cube trays also make a great candy mold. The next time you want a peanut butter cup, try this. Melt chocolate and paraffin wax in a double boiler. While the chocolate is melting, butter the insides of an ice cube tray. Once the chocolate is melted, brush the chocolate into the bottom and up the sides of each slot in the ice cube tray. Place the mold into the refrigerator until the chocolate has set. Then take a mixture of peanut butter and powered sugar and place it inside each cup. Top with more melted chocolate and place the mold by in the fridge. Once the chocolate has set, remove the candy from the ice cube tray and store at room temperature.
Ten Uses for Ice Cube Trays #8: Pudding Pops
Another easy and fun way to use ice cube trays is to make pudding pops. All you need to do is mix up a box of instant pudding and pour it into the ice cube tray. Cover with plastic wrap and poke a toothpick through the plastic into the center of each pop. Allow to freeze until solid and enjoy.
Ten Uses for Ice Cube Trays #9: Frozen Fruit Puree for Smoothies
Plain ice can really water down a smoothie. Instead of using water for the ice for your smoothies, use pureed fruit. Simply puree your favorite fruits with a bit of fruit juice and then pour it into an ice cube tray. When you get ready for a smoothie, just add a few pieces of the pureed fruit ice to your other ingredients.
Ten Uses for Ice Cube Trays #10: Leftover Pasta Sauce
If you have a small family, you may have leftover pasta sauce. Instead of tossing the sauce out, pour the excess into an ice cube tray. The next time you want pizza, thaw out a few cubes and use that instead of pizza sauce.
