Stock and Sauce

• Instead of making a small batch of sauce or stock for every recipe, make one large batch and save it using an ice cube tray. Freeze small portions of sauce or stock in ice cubes. Once frozen, remove from the tray and store in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag. When you’re ready to use them, just drop as many cubes as you need into a pot and reheat on the stove. Use ice cube trays to store a variety of sauces, including pesto, pasta, meat sauces and glazes. Stock and sauces can be stored for two to three months.

Treat Molds

• Ice cube trays can second as candy molds. Whether you’re setting up the candy in the freezer or at room temperature, use the individual portions to create filled chocolates, chocolate-covered fruits or small bites of chocolate. Once set, turn the ice cube tray over and gently tap on the countertop to remove candies. Store treats in airtight containers for a few days or freeze for three to six months.

Juice

• Freshly squeezed citrus juices can be frozen into ice cube form and used later. Add juice cubes to water, lemonade or seltzer to add a little flavor. Juice cubes can also be used in sauces and smoothies and added to stews or soups. Store juice cubes for four to six months in a freezer bag.

Coffee and Tea

• Instead of throwing out leftover coffee or tea, freeze it into cubes. These cubes can be added to iced coffee or tea later to keep the flavor from being watered down with regular, water-based ice cubes. Use coffee or tea cubes to make blended drinks, too. Store cubes in a heavy-duty freezer bag for up to three months.

Baby Food

• Pureed fruits, vegetables and baby food can be frozen in individual portions using an ice cube tray. Once completely frozen, store the cubes in heavy-duty freezer bags, separating by food or type. Frozen baby food cubes can be removed and reheated to a safe temperature for quick meal preparation. Freeze baby food cubes for two to four weeks.

Herbs and Spices

• Fresh herbs and spices are costly. Instead of letting them spoil, freeze chopped up herbs in stock or water in ice cube trays. Use these cubes in sauces, stocks and recipes for a quick dash of fresh herbs. Store in a heavy-duty freezer bag for up to three months.