How To Make An Ice Ring For A Punch Bowl
I’m not sure how or where I learned how to make an ice ring for a punch bowl. It’s just something that I know how to do. And, since it seems like something a good host or hostess should have in their entertaining bag of tricks, I’m sharing the how-to with you. Ridiculously simple to do yet something that always gets remarks at a party. (“How did you make that???” It’s somewhat embarrassing to admit all I did was freeze water. It makes me wish it really was a little more difficult to do.) But, most importantly, it solves the problem of keeping a punch cold without using ice cubes, which melt more quickly than an ice ring and dilute your punch somewhat.
When I make an ice ring, I most frequently use my Bundt pan. But any mold, preferably with a hole in the middle, will work. I start by putting just a little water in the bottom of the pan and then lining the ring with whatever fruit or garnish I’m using. You can use anything for the garnish keeping in mind that, as the ice melts, the garnish may/will end up floating in your punch. Also, make sure that the garnish freezes well and won’t turn brown when wet or frozen. I have used all different kinds of sliced citrus, berries and even holly.
Put the pan in the freezer until the water freezes. Then add another layer of cold water, keeping in mind that the fuller the pan, the larger the ice ring will be. Return the pan to the freezer and freeze until solid, several hours or overnight. There is a reason for doing this in layers. Because the fruit/garnish floats, by freezing it first in a shallow layer, it will remain on top of the ice ring, instead of floating to the what will become the bottom of the ice ring in your punch bowl.
To remove the ice ring from the pan, simply run warm water over the bottom of the pan until the ice ring releases.
After the first layer (with garnish) is frozen, add more water and freeze again.
After the second layer is completely frozen, run warm water on the bottom of the pan to release the ice ring.
Remove the ice ring from the pan and float, garnished-side up, in your punch bowl.
Happy Entertaining!
Hello, what garnish did you use?
Looking forward to trying this, thank you!
Thanks for your comment! In this particular ice ring I used cranberries. Most of the time I just try to match the garnish to the ingredients of the punch, such as using sliced lemons in a lemonade punch. Good luck and happy entertaining!
just wondering …I am making an ice ring for new years party and was thinking of doing it with 7up suppose it would still work with the freezing and cranberries?
Sherri,
You can use 7up for the ice ring but just probably should be aware that it will be flat when it thaws. If you are trying to add fizz to your punch, then you should add it as the mixer instead.
Happy Holidays!
First off, this is such a cool idea! I wanted to make this for Christmas and New Year’s and I was wondering can you use any thing for garnishment? Please share more ideas Thank You❄