The Must-Have ALDI Kitchen Find I Only Wish I'd Bought Sooner

It's functional and stylish.

<p>Simply Recipes / Getty Images</p>

Simply Recipes / Getty Images

I have a low-key obsession with ice and icy beverages. The shape, size, and texture of ice are fascinating (ridiculously, I admit) and important to me. About a year and a half ago, I began collecting various ice cube trays like a dorky frozen water connoisseur.

I have square silicone trays, round ice molds, and even a set of tiny, pebble-like molds with a container and scoop. I loved the ice the latter mold made, but the container changed everything. Finally, I had ice ready for scooping while newly refilled trays were freezing. So when my husband accidentally broke my beloved storage container, I was seriously bummed and set out on a mission to find a replacement.

I needed something sturdy enough to store the ice that wouldn't easily snap if frozen. (I learned the hard way that traditional plastic containers crack easily if cold.) I was excited to see that ALDI was selling an ice cube tray with a built-in storage container for $6.99, so I decided to try it!

This little gem has turned out to be the perfect solution to keeping my fun ice fresh, undamaged, and ready to partner up with a good drink.

<p>Simply Recipes / ALDI</p>

Simply Recipes / ALDI

What I Love About ALDI's Crofton Ice Tray

  • It's not just an ice tray. It's really a clever storage solution that keeps a generous supply of perfectly shaped ice at my fingertips. If you're particular about your ice, this affordable find is a must-have kitchen accessory. The set includes a silicone ice cube tray that creates 49 ice cubes at once and doubles as a lid, and a sturdy and sleek-looking storage box that can hold up to 147 ice cubes. Available in three modern and trendy color choices—shark black, rose pink, and foggy blue—this set is as stylish as it is functional.

  • Perfect ice, every time. The ice from this tray is nothing short of delightful. Each piece is a small, hexagon shape that adds a touch of elegance to any drink, and the silicone tray makes it easy to pop the ice out without having to bang it on the counter like traditional plastic trays. One minor drawback is that the perimeter cubes only form half molds due to the shape of the lid, but that minor flaw doesn't take away from the integrity of the ice. I'm particularly impressed by how well the ice holds its cute shape. Even in my insulated tumbler, these ice gems maintain their integrity, slowly melting to keep my drink perfectly chilled without watering it down too quickly.

  • It's a supreme storage solution. The built-in storage container is the main reason for buying this product. It may seem unnecessary, but having an appropriate container to store your ice is a game-changer. I love that I can make a batch of ice, store it, and immediately start on the next round. This constant rotation ensures I always have a fresh supply, crucial for someone who goes through ice as quickly as I do.

Having the right container to store ice has changed how much I enjoy my drinks. The drinks taste fresher, stay chilled longer (no small chips melting down), and look and feel special, so I generally don't reach for a cocktail as often. If you want to move effortlessly into the world of low and no-alcohol drinks or simply elevate your icy beverage game without breaking the bank, ALDI's ice cube tray and container combo is a summer must-have.

Read the original article on Simply Recipes.