The Emporio Kitchen system is designed for high-volume ice production, creating 99 individual 1.1-inch spheres per cycle. This multi-polymer construction is optimized for vertical stacking, with rigid bins that help protect the ice from absorbing freezer odors better than open trays. The small sphere size is ideal for rapid chilling in standard glassware and provides a consistent, professional look for home entertaining.
A practical consideration for this system is that the upper lid uses a press-fit friction seal without a silicone gasket. This means that precise vertical pressure is required during filling to avoid overfill leakage between the 99 cavities. To ensure the build quality of the trays is maintained, it is helpful to allow a 2-minute "tempering" period at room temperature before attempting to release the ice, as the rigid plastic chassis can be sensitive to aggressive twisting while frozen.
The storage bin is made from an impact-resistant blend, though it may show some scratching over time from the use of metal scoops. Because of the many small cavities, these trays are susceptible to mineral buildup in hard-water areas and are not recommended for high-heat dishwashers. This set is a highly efficient choice for those who prioritize quantity and aesthetic uniformity for social hosting.
If you find that the rigid plastic is too difficult to manage, the Samuelworld Large Silicone Molds offer a simpler push-release for craft ice.
Explore a variety of other freezer storage and ice-making tools in our ice cube trays section.
