If you want to freeze water fast, here's the right water temperature to use.
Does Hot or Cold Water Freeze Faster? We Finally Have The Answer.
Get ready to head back to your high school chemistry class, because it’s time for a lesson on water molecules. And this time, this lesson will actually apply to your daily life.
Imagine it’s a hot summer day and you want some ice to add to that homemade lemonade, but you don’t have any on hand. Is it quicker to freeze your ice cube tray using hot or cold water? Common sense tells us to opt for cold water, since it’s closer in temperature to what you need for water to be frozen.
Hate to break it to you, but that’s actually false. You’re going to want to fill those ice cube trays with hot water instead. The real reason has to do with the properties of the molecules. That’s right, I wasn’t kidding, it’s time for a chemistry lesson.
It’s been a while…can you give me a chemistry refresh?
There’s a reason we call water H2O, and it’s not because the phrase sounds trendy or hip. H2O is actually the molecular term for the chemical substance of water. Water molecules consist of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom. Hence the two after the H, and only one O, in H2O.
Atoms within a molecule are actually attached by a covalent bond. Covalent bonds occur between atoms due to the electron pairs within those atoms. They stick together—kind of like how gooey melted cheese binds together gobs of macaroni in these comfort food dishes.
Why do I need to know the science behind it?
These facts are vitally important for understanding why hot water freezes faster than cold water, and we can blame it all on a recent study done at the School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore. They wanted to find a reason for the Mpemba effect, which is the fancy title for the chemical reaction we are trying to solve (hot water freezing faster).
According to their study, the change in covalent bonds between hot and cold H2O molecules is what makes all the difference when trying to freeze water. Unlike some covalent bonds that soften when applying heat, H2O molecules actually tighten up. The energy from heat squeezes and strengthens the bond between the hydrogen atoms and the oxygen atom, while simultaneously spreading out from the other molecules in the water. AKA, it’s getting ready to become water vapor.
Why hot water freezes faster.
When water is frozen, a similar reaction happens. The molecules initially tighten up and bind together to create a solid form. Since hot water’s molecules are already tightened up, it has a head start on looking it should in its frozen state. Cool water would take time to reach this point. Ergo, hot water freezes in less time than cold water does.
So next time you’re in a pinch and need ice cubes ASAP, just boil up some water to freeze. You’ll have ice cubes in no time!
Now that you have ice cubes, make one of these non-alcoholic party drinks!
Blood Orange PunchThis tangy nonalcoholic punch is festive, refreshing and easy to prepare. Instead of plain ice cubes, I add frozen orange juice cubes. —Sandy McKenzie, Braham, Minnesota
Cranberry juice, blood orange Italian soda, sugar and lots of fresh lemon juice combine to make this ultra-bright and fizzy bowl of punch. Pro tip: Use large ice cubes, as they melt more slowly and won't dilute the punch's flavors.
Watermelon SpritzerIt couldn’t get much easier than this bright spritzer! “Watermelon blended with limeade is cool and refreshing. It’s a wonderful thirst-quencher on a hot summer day.” —Geraldine Saucier, Albuquerque, New Mexico
This summertime spritzer infuses real watermelon juice with limeade concentrate and a bit of carbonated water for some fizz. To make it ahead, combine the watermelon and limeade the night before your event and let the flavors meld together in the fridge overnight. Then, add the carbonated water just before serving so the spritzer stays nice and bubbly.
Virgin MargaritaYou don't need store-bought limeade, alcohol or any fancy ingredients to create a refreshing, thirst-quenching experience this summer. All you need is a few lemons, limes and a touch of sugar; it really is that easy to learn how to make a virgin margarita! —Lindsay Mattison, Hillsboro, Oregon
Fresh lime and lemon juice, superfine sugar and a bit of club soda make this spirit-free margarita shine. If regular margaritas are also on the menu, you can easily scale up the recipe to make a large pitcher. Set out a bottle of tequila and allow guests to mix it in if they choose to partake.
Blackberry ShrubMaking a shrub recipe is a creative way to use up extra fruit all the way through Labor Day. We were inspired by sampling the house-made shrubs at a restaurant in California. They are as colorful and refreshing as summer drinks should be. —Gina Nistico, Denver, Colorado
Shrub (aka drinking vinegar) takes some time to prepare—this one tastes best after it sits for several weeks. It's worth the wait, though. Blackberries, cinnamon and vinegar combine to create a flavorful base for homemade soda, creating an impressive summer mocktail.
Mock Champagne PunchOf all the punch recipes I've tried, I keep coming back to this mock champagne punch. It's so easy to keep the ingredients in the refrigerator and mix as much as needed. —Betty B. Claycomb, Alverton, Pennsylvania
Champagne is a mainstay at any New Year's Eve party, especially once the clock strikes midnight. Include your sober guests in the celebration with this mocktail made with fizzy white grape juice and ginger ale.
Tajin LimeadeTajin is a blend of chili peppers, salt and lime. I sprinkle it on a lot of food, but I've found it's really delicious in limeade. —Amanda Phillips, Portland, Oregon
Break out the Tajin to give this refreshing limeade cooler a kick of heat. It gives off major spicy margarita vibes without requiring any expensive tequila.
Shirley TempleA classic kids' drink that's been a favorite for decades, Shirley Temple is a pretty, fizzy, red-hued mocktail served with maraschino cherries. Make the drink extra special with a red and white paper straw or a little cocktail umbrella. —Nancy Mock, Southbridge, Massachusetts
No list of mocktail recipes would be complete without the classic Shirley Temple! It's usually seen as a kid's drink, but there's no reason it can't be enjoyed by adults, too. Try fancying it up by making it with fancy cherries (like Luxardo cherries).
Virgin MojitoThis alcohol-free version of the classic mojito is delightfully fragrant and refreshing. Keep fresh mint on hand, and it will become your warm-weather go-to. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
You won't even miss the rum in this refreshing booze-free mojito. I recommend crafting a large batch of this mocktail for pool-side sipping. No matter how much you scale up this recipe, it only takes five minutes to make from start to finish—and even less time for everyone to drink it all down.
Cranberry FizzWith just five basic ingredients, this wonderfully tangy nonalcoholic beverage couldn't be much simpler to stir together. —Suzette Jury, Keene, California
This cranberry fizz is begging to make its debut at a holiday party. Seasonal cranberries and citrus fruits (hello, oranges and grapefruit!) fit this mocktail for winter festivities, and ginger ale gives it some celebratory fizz. Use frozen cranberries for the garnish so they keep the drinks chilled without watering them down.
Spiced Apple TeaI love to try new recipes for my husband and our friends. This spiced apple tea is one of our favorites. I like to serve it warm or refrigerate and serve it cold, too. —Sharon Delaney-Chronis, South Milwaukee, Wisconsin
During fall holidays like Halloween and Thanksgiving, I like to make mocktails featuring the humble apple. Mulling your favorite tea flavor (like black or ginger tea) with cloves and cinnamon creates a spiced apple tea that tastes like sipping on autumn itself.
Pineapple Coconut RefresherThis tropical drink is lower in calories and fat than most smoothie recipes. It's quite refreshing and packed with vitamins and minerals. —Shelly Bevington, Hermiston, Oregon
If you want to serve mocktails with all the glamor of tropical cocktails, these pineapple coconut refreshers are for you. Pineapple-flavored coconut water is blended with agave nectar, fresh pineapple, ice and a little bit of avocado oil, giving the drink a smooth finish. Add a pineapple leaf garnish for that tropical island flair.
Scarlet SipperThis sweet, tart and slightly nonalcoholic party drink is a favorite for gatherings at our church. The bright color sets a festive tone, and the flavors blend seamlessly. —Amber Goolsby, Geneva, Alabama
This scarlet sipper might just be the easiest nonalcoholic cocktail on the list. Break out your pitcher or punch bowl and pour in cranberry-apple juice, orange juice, fresh lemon juice and ginger ale. Give it a stir, and it'll be ready to serve!
Sparkling Coconut Grape JuiceThis sparkling drink is a nice change of pace from lemonade and party punch. The lime, coconut and grape combination is so refreshing. —Shelly Bevington, Hermiston, Oregon
White grape juice and coconut are an unexpected pairing, but both are sweet and refreshing in their own right, so they work exceptionally well together. If you're not sure where to find coconut-flavored sparkling water, search for the La Croix brand at the store.
Citrus & White Grape Juice Party PunchI was looking for a nonalcoholic party drink that wouldn't stain expensive dresses and tuxedos. Everyone loved this white grape juice and lemonade punch! You can mix the first four ingredients ahead of time, refrigerate and add the soda right before serving. —Karen Ballance, Wolf Lake, Illinois
No one will miss the alcohol after sipping on this citrusy party punch. Garnishing it with fresh lemon slices, orange slices and white grapes makes this punch look like sunshine.
Strawberry DrinkDuring the dog days of summer, my family looks for a cold, thirst-quenching drink. I like this strawberry cooler because it's sparkling, refreshing and fast and easy to make.
No one could turn down a booze-free beverage made with summer-fresh strawberries. We blend the berries with water, sugar, lemon juice and zest, but make sure to save some fresh strawberries for a picture-perfect garnish. Even mocktails deserve a presentation!
Sparkling Ginger LemonadeChill out with this delightful ginger lemonade perfect for springtime bridal showers or hot summer days on the deck. It's a quick fix you'll stir up time after time. —Jodi Blubaugh, Eagle Mountain, Utah
Turn simple lemonade into a thoughtful cocktail for your backyard bash. The flavors of fresh gingerroot take center stage, and honey acts as an all-natural sweetener. Garnish these nonalcoholic cocktails with lemon slices and sprigs of fresh mint.
Sparkling Cider SangriaAdding orange and cranberry juices transforms apple cider into a pretty holiday drink. This quick and easy alcohol-free beverage is absolutely delicious. A friend shared the recipe with me years ago, and I made a few changes. It's a huge hit at holiday brunches! —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
Sangria lovers will appreciate this fruit-powered mocktail. Apple cider and juice make the sparkling base, and orange juice, cranberry juice and matching garnishes turn it into a festive drink that resembles sparkling red wine sangria.
Virgin Pina ColadaPina coladas, everyone? Yes, the whole family can sip on these slushy mocktails—like vacation in a glass! The alcohol may be omitted but the bright, juicy tropical flavors are here to stay. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
All the tropical flavors of a pina colada, and none of the rum, are blended into this frozen slushy drink. I like to chill the glasses in the freezer so the pina colada can stay as cold as possible, as much as it wants to melt away in the summer heat.
Honey-Pear Iced TeaTake summery iced tea into fall and winter by stirring in pear nectar and adding a fresh pear slice to each glass as a garnish. A little honey provides an extra touch of sweetness.
Chai tea, pear nectar, fresh lemon juice and honey are the creative ingredients behind this inventive autumnal cocktail. Wait until just before serving to slice the pear garnish, or the fruit will oxidize and turn brown.
Ocean PunchThis ocean water punch is refreshing and not overly sweet. Use your favorite Kool-Aid mix to switch up the flavor for every season and occasion. —Elizabeth LeBlanc, Bourg, Louisiana
How creative is this ocean punch? Besides the Kool-Aid-powered blue mocktail base and the addition of Swedish Fish, the fish bowl-shaped punch bowl really sells it. Check out the recipe for tips on getting the fish gummies to stick to the sides.
Slush DrinkIn Hobson, Montana, Darlene White mixes up this sweet fruity slush using juices, berries and soft drink mix. Then she stores it in the freezer for unexpected company. Simply pour a little citrus soda over scoops of the colorful mixture for a frosty and refreshing beverage.
Whenever I'm preparing to throw a get-together, I try to put make-ahead recipes on the menu so I don't spend all day prepping. This mocktail recipe actually needs to be made at least 12 hours in advance, so it's a perfect fit!
Mulled CiderThis is a classic warmer-upper that you can serve on chilly winter days. Pass the brandy separately for those who want it.
Everyone loves hot apple cider, especially when mulled with brown sugar, warming autumnal spices and fresh citrus juice. And this version is entirely alcohol-free! Make a big batch for your next fall gathering, and let people add brandy to their own cups if they feel so inclined.
Lemony Fruit CoolerThis nonalcoholic party drink looks so pretty with all the colorful fruit floating in the bowl. It has a refreshing taste and is easy to put together. —Dawn Shackelford, Fort Worth, Texas
I just love this summery bowl of punch, especially considering how easy it is to make. Add fresh summer fruits to give it some vibrancy, and the punch will be so good that people will come around for seconds.
Banana Brunch PunchA cold glass of nonalcoholic punch really brightens a brunch. It's nice to serve a crisp beverage like this that's more spectacular than plain juice. With bananas, orange juice and lemonade, it can add tropical flair to a winter day. —Mary Anne McWhirter, Pearland, Texas
I absolutely love this summery slushy mocktail. It's chock-full of all things tropical: bananas, pineapples, oranges and lemons, with lemon-lime soda and a touch of sugar (not too much!) to tie it all together. You will need to break out your blender and make space in your freezer, but this sipper is well worth it.
Lemon-Lime PunchThis frothy refresher topped with lime sherbet is a longtime family favorite and the best punch I’ve ever had. It’s fast, festive and easy to mix up for a variety of occasions. —Mary Ray, Raccoon, Kentucky
Vintage recipes are making a huge comeback, and homemade punch is, once again, having its moment in time. The sherbet bobbing in the bowl is a nice touch and makes me think of parties my grandmother might have thrown in the 1950s.
Pink Rhubarb PunchRhubarb is the featured ingredient in this blush-colored punch. A friend passed the nonalcoholic recipe on to me, and we enjoy it so much that I thought others might, too. —Rebecca Mininger, Jeromesville, Ohio
Perfectly pink, wonderfully fruity and completely alcohol-free, this mocktail is perfect for bachelorettes, birthday parties or baby showers. Strawberry and rhubarb are the power duo flavoring this drink, with pineapple juice and ginger ale creating complexity.
Slow-Cooker Hot ChocolateGreet holiday guests at the door with steaming mugs of rich hot chocolate. As the crowning touch, offer a selection of flavored whipped creams.—Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Who says mocktails have to be cold? When the weather outside is frightful, warm up with a hot chocolate that's oh-so-delightful. This hot chocolate recipe is finished with a sophisticated coffee whipped cream that makes it a party-worthy drink.
Mojito SlushWhether you're splashing poolside or watching the kids inside, this slushy beverage has just the right balance of minty crispness and limey tartness that's sure to tingle your taste buds. —Jessica Ring, Chicago, Illinois
A refreshing twist on the classic mojito, this virgin version blends grapefruit, mint, and lime. Adding grapefruit soda will make you wonder why you haven't made mojitos this way all along!
Pumpkin JuiceOur family loves Harry Potter. Inspired by the popular series, I decided to come up with a beverage—pumpkin juice! My kids think it’s surprisingly delicious. I love that it’s healthy, easy to make and a refreshing addition to any fall meal. —Geraldine Saucier, Albuquerque, New Mexico
Witches and wizards in the Harry Potter universe break out this nonalcoholic drink as soon as the air begins to chill. Rightfully so, as pumpkin puree, brown sugar, autumnal spices and apple cider are the mainstays of this mocktail. It's perfect for fall and winter.
Celebration PunchThis pretty fruit punch has just the right amount of sweetness. The ice ring keeps it cool for hours without diluting the flavor.
—Marci Carl, Northern Cambria, Pennsylvania
Fizzy, fruity and absolutely gorgeous, this nonalcoholic punch makes any party feel like a celebration. We'll even show you how to make a gorgeous ice ring filled with fresh strawberries, orange juice and beautiful sprigs of mint.
Mocktail Recipes FAQ
What is a mocktail?
A mocktail is a crafted mixed drink that doesn't contain alcohol. It can be made with all sorts of ingredients, like juice, flavored syrups, sodas or fizzy drinks. It's usually a spirit-free copy of a classic cocktail, but you can certainly make a unique and original creation.
What is the most popular mocktail?
The most popular mocktail is the classic Shirley Temple. Made with ginger ale, grenadine and maraschino cherries, it's been a favorite spirit-free drink since the 1930s.
How can I make a cocktail without alcohol?
Nowadays, making a cocktail without alcohol (aka a mocktail) is as easy as a few ingredient swaps. Using nonalcoholic wines and spirits, you can turn any spritz, Bellini or cocktail into a booze-free concoction. But you don't need nonalcoholic substitutes to craft a really good mocktail, either. Simply mix juices, flavored waters or sodas to create a homemade mocktail. You can also have some fun with flavored simple syrup if you want to get creative.
