How To Make Diamond Ice Cubes: Exploring Different Techniques

A plastic ice cube tray is undoubtedly the most cost-effective and easy way to make diamond-shaped cubes. A tray set for making diamond-shape ice cubes usually consists of a tray and a lid with small holes. You need to pour water into the tray through the holes with the help of a small funnel, and after freezing for at least 4 hours, you can release ice cubes by slightly twisting the tray.

Pros

– Budget-friendly
– Dishwasher-safe
– Easy to use
– Multiple cubes at a time

Cons

– Risk of unwanted smells in beverages
– Prone to cracking and breaking
– The diamond shape can be easily damaged when you remove the ice from the tray
– Comparatively low integrity of ice cubes, which can result in quick dilution

Silicone molds for making diamonds resemble traditional plastic ice cube trays. The only difference is that they’re made from silicone, making them more flexible and durable. Likewise, you need to pour water into the mold through the holes, and after freezing for at least 4 hours, you can easily remove iced diamonds by pushing the bottom of the mold.

Pros

– Budget-friendly
– Dishwasher-safe
– Easy to use
– Multiple ice diamond cubes at a time
– Flexible, easy to pop the ice out
– Durable, making them a more sustainable choice than plastic trays

Cons

– Silicone can absorb unwanted smells
– The material is sticky and can collect residue, which calls for regular cleaning
– Comparatively low integrity of ice cubes, which can result in quick dilution

Carving a diamond out of ice by hand requires a lot of practice. You need an ice cube, a cutting board, and a sharp knife. First, let the ice cube adjust to room temperature for a few minutes.
Make a diagonal cut across the top surface to create a triangular shape. Rotate the ice cube to make three more triangular shapes. Then, chip away the excess ice around the diamond shape, following the outlines of the diamond.

Pros

– No need for special equipment
– The possibility to make any shape and size you want
– No odd smells provided you wear gloves and use a clean knife and board

Cons

– This method requires experience
– It takes more time and effort than other techniques
– You can only make one ice diamond cube at a time

Diamond cube makers allow you to make perfectly shaped diamonds out of regular ice cubes quickly and effortlessly. This method is quite different from the ones mentioned above, and the most innovative of all.
A diamond cube maker consists of two metal blocks (typically made from high-quality aluminum) joined with two vertical shafts. Each block has a different mold carved into a side, which together make up a diamond. The heat in the metal quickly transfers to the ice, melting it fast while the weight of the top block pushes the ice down into the mold. You put a block of ice between the shafts, and the top block starts to slide down, melting the ice into a diamond shape.

Pros

– It doesn’t absorb smells like silicone or plastic
– It’s naturally BPA-free
– Ice diamonds produced with a press have high integrity, eliminating cracks and minimizing dilution
– If you use purified water, you’ll always get perfectly clear ice with no impurities or cloudy appearance
– Easy to use
– Durable and environmentally-friendly

Cons

– A quality product is more expensive than a plastic ice tray or a silicone mold
– You can make only one ice cube with one press at the same time

Using a diamond ice press is a simple process. To get started, you’ll need an ice press and a block of clear ice. Here are the steps to follow:

• Step 1: Run the press under warm water for 30 seconds.
• Step 2: Put the bottom block of the ice maker in the drip tray.
• Step 3: Place an ice cube on the press between the shafts.
• Step 4: Put the upper part of the press over the ice cube, aligning the holes in it with the shafts.
• Step 5: Wait until the halves of the press meet and remove the upper part. Use tongs to remove the ice carefully.

Conclusion

Iced diamonds can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any party. As you can see, various techniques of making diamond-shaped ice have their pros and cons. While traditional plastic and silicone molds offer a cost-effective and easy way to make multiple ice cubes, they may crack and absorb unwanted smells. The hand-carving technique allows for custom shapes but requires skill and time.
However, the most innovative method is using a press. Although more expensive, it produces high-integrity ice cubes with no absorption of smells, ensuring a clear appearance and perfect shapes.