If you enjoy entertaining, then you may know that you can make decorative ice cubes by adding edible items to your ice cube tray(s) before freezing. Fruit, fruit juice, herbs, as well as edible flowers are just a few items that can be used. Up until recently, I only thought about adding decorative ice cubes to drinks to make them pretty and festive. However, that all changed when I attended my niece’s bridal shower. They made large floral ice cubes to keep the champagne chilled under the hot desert sun. It was absolutely beautiful!
By using large square trays, the ice cubes don’t melt as quickly. The larger cubes allow for larger flowers or a mixture of flowers to be used. You could add these beautiful floral ice cubes to a punch bowl when serving a large crowd. I’ve seen Bundt cake tins used to create an ice ring, but adding large ice cubes is another great option. Besides, the larger cubes don’t get in the way of the ladle, like an ice ring would, therefore, making it easier for your guests to pour some delicious punch into their glass.
If you have a beautiful water fountain or birdbath, consider adding some to your water features when hosting an outdoor party in the garden. Even if the ice cubes melt, you’ll have flowers dancing around in your fountain or birdbath.
If you have a pool in your backyard and are having an outdoor gathering where you won’t be using your pool, then create a beautiful atmosphere by placing bright floral blooms in a loaf pan, fill with water, and freeze. To loosen from the pan, let the ice thaw a bit (or place the bottom of the pan in warm water) and remove. Create several and then just before the party, toss them into the pool. Sure once the ice melts, you’ll need to skim the flowers from your pool (after the party is over). But think of how beautiful they’ll look. Not to mention, your guests will love them!
Material
Large square silicone mold
Flat floral blooms (edible if placing in a drink or punch bowl)
Water
*It’s best to use flowers that have a flat floral spread, such as pansies, as they’ll fan out and look prettier in the ice cubes. However, you’re free to experiment and find what you prefer. Just be sure to use edible flowers when placing in drinks or a punch bowl.
Instructions
Place a flat floral bloom in each square, add water and freeze. Feel free to place a variety of colorful blooms in each mold to add character to each one.
Where to buy edible flowers?
You can find them at your farmer’s market, or shop online at Gourmet Sweet Botanicals or Melissa’s.
