Ingredients
2 (3-ounce) packages blue gelatin mix (e.g., blue raspberry)
4 cups boiling water, divided
2 cups cold water, divided
10-12 graham cracker sheets, crushed
1 (7.5-ounce) bag gummy fish and/or other assorted marine-themed candies (e.g., gummy sharks, edible pearls, green gummy worms)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare your serving cups. You'll need about 8-10 clear plastic or glass cups (8-ounce size is ideal). Make sure they are clean and dry.
Step 2: Crush the graham crackers. Place about 10-12 graham cracker sheets into a Ziploc bag and crush them using a rolling pin until they resemble fine sand. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the blue Jello. In a large heatproof bowl, combine 2 (3-ounce) packages of blue gelatin mix with 2 cups of boiling water. Stir constantly for at least 2 minutes, until the gelatin is completely dissolved.
Step 4: Add cold water. Stir in 2 cups of cold water into the dissolved gelatin mixture.
Step 5: Chill the Jello (partially). Place the bowl of liquid Jello in the refrigerator for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until it is partially set but still liquid enough to pour easily. It should be the consistency of a thick syrup, not completely solid. This partial setting is crucial for creating distinct layers.
Step 6: Create the 'sand' layer. Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of crushed graham crackers into the bottom of each prepared cup. Press lightly to form an even layer.
Step 7: Pour the first Jello layer. Carefully pour the partially set blue Jello over the graham cracker 'sand' layer, filling each cup about 1/3 of the way.
Step 8: Add the first layer of 'fish'. Place a few gummy fish or other candy critters into this first Jello layer. They should sink slightly but not fully touch the bottom if the Jello is correctly partially set.
Step 9: Chill again. Return the cups to the refrigerator and chill for another 30-45 minutes, or until this layer is firm enough to support the next.
Step 10: Add the second Jello layer and more fish. Once the first layer is firm, carefully pour another layer of the remaining partially set Jello, filling the cups about two-thirds full. Add more gummy fish and candies, positioning them to look like they are swimming at different depths.
Step 11: Final chill. Return the cups to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2-3 hours, or until the Jello is completely firm.
Step 12: Decorate (optional). Just before serving, you can add a few more gummy fish or a sprinkle of edible glitter on top for extra sparkle. You can also add green gummy worms or candy strips for 'seaweed' if desired.
Notes
For best results, allow ample chilling time between layers to ensure your 'fish' stay suspended and your 'sand' remains distinct. This recipe can be easily scaled up for larger gatherings. Store leftover Edible Aquarium Jello Cups covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Drinks, Snacks & Holiday Treats
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg