Cracked Ice

Dihydrogen monoxide (solid state) Bar Accessory, Chilling Agent, Solid

Cracked Ice Bar Accessory, Chilling Agent, Solid

At a Glance

  • Category Bar Accessory, Chilling Agent, Solid

The Forktionary Angle

"The unsung hero of mixology: understanding how ice's form dictates a drink's temperature, dilution, and texture."

Definition

Small, irregularly shaped pieces of ice, larger than crushed but smaller than cubes, ideal for chilling cocktails rapidly with minimal dilution.

Dilution Rate Higher dilution than cubes, lower than crushed.
Ideal Use Perfect for swizzles, juleps, and large format drinks.
Surface Area Larger surface area than cubes, faster chilling.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Cracked Ice are:

Neutral refreshing

Chef’s Secret

To make perfect cracked ice at home, wrap standard ice cubes in a clean kitchen towel and gently smash with a mallet or rolling pin until desired consistency.

Best Substitutes

Crushed ice

more dilution
Ratio 1:1

Small ice cubes

less dilution
Ratio 1:1

Block ice

requires breaking down
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Often made by hand from larger ice blocks or using specialized ice crushers. Look for clear, clean ice.

Recipes Using Cracked Ice

Beginner Cook Summer Occasion Main Ingredient

1927 Eskimo Cup

Escape the heat with this refreshing 1927 Eskimo Cup recipe! A delightful blast from the past, this vintage recipe (revived from a 1981 cookbook of forgotten favorites) is the perfect summer cooler. Sweet and bubbly, it's incredibly easy to make and guaranteed to transport you back to simpler times. Get ready for a taste of nostalgia!

See Complete Recipe