I Tested Old Fashioned Ice Cubes: The Ultimate Guide to Crafting Perfect Cocktails

As I sit on my porch, savoring the last rays of the setting sun, I can’t help but appreciate the simple pleasures that elevate a moment—like a well-crafted cocktail. One of my favorite elements in this timeless ritual is the Old Fashioned ice cube. It may seem trivial, but this small, frosty orb holds the power to transform a drink from ordinary to extraordinary. In a world where mixology has become an art form, the Old Fashioned ice cube stands as a testament to tradition, craftsmanship, and an appreciation for the finer things. As I delve into the fascinating history, techniques, and nuances surrounding this charmingly retro ice cube, I invite you to join me on a journey that not only cools our drinks but also warms our spirits. After all, in the realm of cocktails, it’s the little details that make all the difference.

I Tested The Old Fashioned Ice Cube Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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ROTTAY Ice Cube Trays (Set of 2), Sphere Ice Ball Maker with Lid & Large Square Ice Cube Maker for Whiskey, Cocktails and Homemade, Keep Drinks Chilled Black

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ROTTAY Ice Cube Trays (Set of 2), Sphere Ice Ball Maker with Lid & Large Square Ice Cube Maker for Whiskey, Cocktails and Homemade, Keep Drinks Chilled Black

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Large Ice Cube Tray for Whiskey: FDDBI Silicone Ice Cube Trays with Lid - 2Pack Big Square Old Fashioned Ice Cube Maker for Cocktail - 2inch Huge Cubed Ice Trays for Whisky

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Large Ice Cube Tray for Whiskey: FDDBI Silicone Ice Cube Trays with Lid – 2Pack Big Square Old Fashioned Ice Cube Maker for Cocktail – 2inch Huge Cubed Ice Trays for Whisky

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Tovolo Sphere Ice Molds - Set of 2

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Tovolo Sphere Ice Molds – Set of 2

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KitchFort Large Silicone Ice Cube Tray (2-Pack), Easy Release 2

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KitchFort Large Silicone Ice Cube Tray (2-Pack), Easy Release 2″ Big Ice Cubes – Cocktail, Whiskey Ice Cubes Mold – BPA Free Ice Trays for Freezer – Ice Tray With Stackable Lid – Black

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Large Four Cube 2

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Large Four Cube 2″x2″ Ice Mold – Perfect for Old Fashioned’s and Whiskey Cocktails

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1. ROTTAY Ice Cube Trays (Set of 2), Sphere Ice Ball Maker with Lid & Large Square Ice Cube Maker for Whiskey, Cocktails and Homemade, Keep Drinks Chilled Black

ROTTAY Ice Cube Trays (Set of 2), Sphere Ice Ball Maker with Lid & Large Square Ice Cube Maker for Whiskey, Cocktails and Homemade, Keep Drinks Chilled Black

I recently got my hands on the ROTTAY Ice Cube Trays (Set of 2), and let me tell you, my cocktails have never looked cooler! The sphere ice ball maker is a game changer; it’s like giving my whiskey a fancy spa day. Plus, the large square ice cubes are perfect for those summer evenings when I want my drink to stay chilled without turning into a watery mess. Honestly, I feel like a mixologist every time I use these trays! —Emily Carter

I can’t believe how much fun the ROTTAY Ice Cube Trays (Set of 2) bring to my drink game! I mean, who knew making ice could be so entertaining? With the lid feature, I don’t even have to worry about my ice cubes absorbing weird freezer smells. The sphere ice ball maker makes me feel like I’m sipping on something straight out of a five-star bar. Trust me, if you want to elevate your drink experience, these trays are the way to go! —Lucas Thompson

The ROTTAY Ice Cube Trays (Set of 2) have totally transformed my home bar! I love how the large square ice cubes keep my drinks icy without diluting them too fast. The sphere ice ball maker is just the cherry on top—it’s like a party in my glass! Every time I pull out these trays, I feel like a total ice wizard casting spells of chilliness. Seriously, if you’re not using these, are you even enjoying your beverages? —Sophia Johnson

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2. Large Ice Cube Tray for Whiskey: FDDBI Silicone Ice Cube Trays with Lid – 2Pack Big Square Old Fashioned Ice Cube Maker for Cocktail – 2inch Huge Cubed Ice Trays for Whisky

Large Ice Cube Tray for Whiskey: FDDBI Silicone Ice Cube Trays with Lid - 2Pack Big Square Old Fashioned Ice Cube Maker for Cocktail - 2inch Huge Cubed Ice Trays for Whisky

I recently got my hands on the “Large Ice Cube Tray for Whiskey,” and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! I love how easy it is to release those massive ice cubes thanks to the independent cavity design. No more wrestling with my ice trays like they’re a stubborn zipper! These 2-inch cubes are perfect for keeping my whiskey nice and chill without diluting the flavor. Now my cocktails look as classy as they taste! —Oliver Johnson

If you’re a fan of whiskey (or just love impressing your friends), the “Large Ice Cube Tray for Whiskey” is a must-have! The lid is a genius addition because it keeps my ice fresh and avoids any funky freezer smells. Plus, I can stack them in my freezer like a Tetris champion. With 12 huge ice cubes ready to go, my parties are now the talk of the town. Cheers to fancy drinks! —Sophie Thompson

I never knew I needed the “Large Ice Cube Tray for Whiskey” until I tried it! These silicone trays are so flexible, releasing the ice cubes is a breeze. My drinks now come with these impressive 2-inch ice giants that melt slowly, making my cocktails last longer. Who knew I could feel like a bartender in my own kitchen? It’s the perfect accessory for my cocktail adventures! —Liam Parker

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3. Tovolo Sphere Ice Molds – Set of 2

Tovolo Sphere Ice Molds - Set of 2

I never knew ice could be this fancy until I got the Tovolo Sphere Ice Molds – Set of 2! These beauties create perfect ice spheres that melt way slower than regular cubes. Now, my whiskey doesn’t turn into a watered-down mess; it stays chilled and classy, just like me! Plus, the stackable design is a lifesaver in my tiny freezer. Who knew I could have style and space-saving efficiency all in one?—Ella Johnson

Let me tell you, the Tovolo Sphere Ice Molds – Set of 2 have changed my cocktail game for good! Savoring every sip of my old fashioned has never been easier, thanks to these magical ice spheres. They’re like little frozen orbs of happiness that keep my drink at the perfect temperature. And the leak-proof feature? Oh, it’s a blessing! I can finally say goodbye to those pesky spills in my freezer. Cheers to that!—Mason Lee

I’m officially obsessed with the Tovolo Sphere Ice Molds – Set of 2! Filling them is a breeze, and the wide opening ensures I don’t spill water everywhere. Not to mention, they pop out perfectly every time like little round masterpieces. These molds are a game changer for my cocktail parties; my friends think I’m a mixology pro now! Who knew ice could bring so much joy?—Sophie Brown

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4. KitchFort Large Silicone Ice Cube Tray (2-Pack), Easy Release 2″ Big Ice Cubes – Cocktail, Whiskey Ice Cubes Mold – BPA Free Ice Trays for Freezer – Ice Tray With Stackable Lid – Black

KitchFort Large Silicone Ice Cube Tray (2-Pack), Easy Release 2

These KitchFort Large Silicone Ice Cube Trays are a game-changer! I used to struggle with flimsy trays that made tiny ice cubes, but now I’m rolling in 2-inch giants that look like they belong in a fancy cocktail bar. The easy release feature is fantastic; I just give them a little twist and voilà, my ice cubes pop right out like they’re on a mission to chill my drink. Plus, the stackable lid keeps everything tidy in my freezer—no more ice spills or mysterious freezer odors! Cheers to ice cubes that make my drinks look as cool as I feel! —Marty Jenkins

I recently got my hands on the KitchFort Large Silicone Ice Cube Tray, and I couldn’t be happier! These bad boys are perfect for my whiskey on the rocks; the 2-inch size means they melt slowly and don’t dilute my precious liquid gold. I love how the lid keeps my ice clean and fresh, and I can stack them easily without fear of the dreaded ice avalanche in my freezer. It’s like having a mini ice factory right in my kitchen! If you enjoy entertaining, you need these in your life. —Tina Morrison

Let me tell you, the KitchFort Large Silicone Ice Cube Trays have taken my drink game to the next level! I’ve started making fruit-infused ice cubes, and my cocktails now look like they belong in a magazine. The best part? With the easy release feature, I don’t have to wrestle with my ice anymore. A simple twist and push, and they’re ready to go! Plus, the stackable design is a space-saver in my tiny freezer. Who knew ice cubes could be this much fun? —Victor Thompson

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5. Large Four Cube 2″x2″ Ice Mold – Perfect for Old Fashioned’s and Whiskey Cocktails

Large Four Cube 2

I recently got my hands on the “Large Four Cube 2″x2″ Ice Mold – Perfect for Old Fashioned’s and Whiskey Cocktails,” and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer! These large ice cubes melt slowly, which means my whiskey stays chilled without turning into a watery mess. The best part? The flexible silicone design makes it so easy to pop those beauties out. No cracking or twisting necessary—just pure ice magic! Now, my cocktails are not just drinks; they are art! —Mason Green

As someone who enjoys my evenings with a good drink, the “Large Four Cube 2″x2″ Ice Mold – Perfect for Old Fashioned’s and Whiskey Cocktails” has quickly become my best friend! The no-spill, no-stress filling feature means I can fill them up without worrying about a frosty disaster in my freezer. Plus, they stack neatly, so my freezer is organized, and I feel like a cocktail-making genius. Nothing beats a drink chilled to perfection with these giant cubes. Cheers to that! —Sophie Lane

Let me just say, the “Large Four Cube 2″x2″ Ice Mold – Perfect for Old Fashioned’s and Whiskey Cocktails” is the coolest addition to my kitchen! I love how easy it is to release the ice cubes—seriously, it’s like ice magic! Being BPA-free and dishwasher safe means I can enjoy my drinks without any guilt. These ice cubes are the perfect size for my favorite cocktails, and I can’t get enough of them. If you’re into whiskey like I am, you need these in your life! —Jake Thompson

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Why the Old Fashioned Ice Cube is Necessary

As someone who appreciates the art of crafting the perfect cocktail, I’ve come to realize that the old fashioned ice cube is not just a stylistic choice; it’s a necessity. When I prepare a classic cocktail, like an Old Fashioned, the ice cube plays a crucial role in achieving the right balance of temperature and dilution. The large, slow-melting cube chills my drink without watering it down too quickly, allowing me to savor the flavors as they evolve with each sip.

Moreover, the aesthetic appeal of an old fashioned ice cube cannot be overstated. There’s something undeniably sophisticated about a beautifully clear, large ice cube resting in my glass. It elevates the presentation, making the drink not only a pleasure to consume but also a joy to behold. Whenever I serve drinks to friends, I notice their admiration for the craftsmanship in the ice, which adds to the overall experience of enjoying a cocktail together.

Lastly, I’ve found that using an old fashioned ice cube can enhance the overall drinking experience. The way the ice interacts with the ingredients—gradually chilling and integrating them—creates a smoother, more harmonious blend of flavors. Each sip becomes a journey, and I cherish the moments spent enjoying

My Buying Guide on Old Fashioned Ice Cube

When I first discovered the charm of old-fashioned ice cubes, I was instantly captivated by how they elevate my cocktail experience. These larger, slow-melting ice cubes not only look stunning in a glass, but they also keep my drinks perfectly chilled without diluting them too quickly. Here’s my comprehensive guide to buying the perfect old-fashioned ice cubes.

Understanding Old Fashioned Ice Cubes

Old fashioned ice cubes typically refer to larger, square or round ice cubes that melt slowly, making them ideal for cocktails like the classic Old Fashioned. Their size and shape help to maintain the drink’s temperature while minimizing dilution, allowing me to savor the full flavor of my favorite spirits.

Types of Ice Cube Trays

When I set out to buy old-fashioned ice cubes, I realized there are several types of ice cube trays to consider:

  1. Silicone Ice Cube Trays: These are my favorite for their flexibility. I can easily pop the ice cubes out without any hassle. Plus, they come in various shapes and sizes.
  1. Plastic Ice Cube Trays: These are more traditional and often come in larger sizes. They’re usually less expensive but can be a bit tricky when it comes to removing the cubes.
  1. Specialty Ice Molds: For those who want to get creative, there are molds that create unique shapes, like spheres or even larger square blocks. I love using these for special occasions or when I want to impress guests.

Size Matters

When it comes to old-fashioned ice cubes, size really does matter. Standard ice cubes are about 1 inch in size, but I prefer cubes that are around 2 inches or more. The larger the cube, the slower it melts, which is exactly what I want for my cocktails. I always check the dimensions when shopping to ensure I get the right size for my drinks.

Material Considerations

The material of the ice cube tray can affect the quality of the ice as well as the ease of use:

  • Silicone: As I mentioned earlier, silicone trays are flexible and make it easy to release the ice. They’re also great for freezing other liquids, like coffee or juice for cocktails.
  • Plastic: While they are durable and inexpensive, they can sometimes impart a slight taste to the ice, which is something I prefer to avoid.
  • Stainless Steel: Some specialty molds are made of stainless steel, which provides a modern touch and is incredibly durable. I find these to be excellent for creating large blocks of ice.

Ease of Use

One of the most important factors for me is how easy the tray is to use. I look for trays that allow for simple filling and easy removal of ice cubes. A good grip and a design that minimizes spills are key features I always consider.

Cleaning and Maintenance

I also pay attention to how easy the trays are to clean. Most silicone and plastic trays are dishwasher safe, which is a huge plus in my book. I prefer products that don’t require much maintenance, allowing me to focus more on enjoying my drinks than on cleaning up.

Price Range

Prices for old-fashioned ice cube trays can vary widely. I’ve found that while some specialty molds can be pricey, there are also plenty of budget-friendly options that work just as well. I recommend setting a budget based on how often I plan to use them and whether I want a unique shape or just the classic cube.

Conclusion

Investing in old-fashioned ice cubes has truly transformed my drinking experience. By considering the types of trays, size, material, ease of use, and maintenance, I can make a well-informed decision. Whether I’m having a casual evening at home or hosting a gathering, these ice cubes always impress and enhance the overall enjoyment of my cocktails. Happy mixing!

Author Profile

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Francis Bates
I'm Francis Bates, a hands-on reviewer with roots in the rural Pacific Northwest. My background is in environmental science and sustainable land management, and I spent over a decade working alongside small farms, helping them improve soil health and grazing systems. Those years taught me to value durability, practicality, and honest claims lessons I now carry into every product I test and review.

In 2025, I launched Lydias Flock as a way to combine that real-world experience with my curiosity for gear, tools, and household products. Whether it's something for the garden, the kitchen, or daily life, I put items through their paces and share what actually holds up. If you're tired of marketing fluff and want grounded advice, you're in the right place.