Surprise Christmas Ice Cubes

Gather your ice cube tray and maraschino cherries, then drain the cherries from their syrup and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

Fill each compartment of the ice cube tray halfway with cold water, ensuring the water level is even across all sections.

Place the ice cube tray in the freezer and allow the water to freeze until solid, creating a stable base layer for the cherries.

Remove the tray from the freezer and place one maraschino cherry in the center of each partially frozen ice cube compartment, pressing it gently onto the frozen surface.

Carefully top off each compartment with additional cold water, filling to just below the rim so the cherry is fully submerged and centered.

Return the ice cube tray to the freezer and freeze until the ice cubes are completely solid throughout.

Once fully frozen, pop the surprise Christmas ice cubes out of the tray and transfer them to a sealed freezer bag or airtight container for storage until ready to use.

Add the festive ice cubes directly to your cocktail glass and pour your chosen tiki or tropical cocktail over them, watching the cherry reveal itself as the ice slowly melts.