I still remember the first time I made these Edible Aquarium Terrariums. It was during a hot summer afternoon, and my youngest had just come home from day camp with a head full of ocean adventures. “Mama, can we catch jellyfish in a jar?” he asked with that sparkle in his eyes. Well, we couldn’t bottle the sea, but we could create something magical together something blue, wiggly, sweet, and full of ocean creatures. That’s how these Aquarium Terrariums became our go-to summer treat.
They’re fun, colorful, and surprisingly easy. You don’t need fancy tools or gourmet ingredients—just a handful of pantry basics, a few gummy fish, and a dash of imagination. And let me tell you, when the jars come out of the fridge, it’s like opening a tiny underwater world. Watching the kids’ eyes light up? That’s why I cook.
What You’ll Need to Make Edible Aquarium Terrariums
These little edible aquariums serve up happiness in every spoonful. Here’s everything you’ll need, plus a few Anna-style tips:
For the Gelatin Base:
- 2 (3 oz) boxes blue gelatin (Berry Blue Jell-O is perfect!)
- 2 cups boiling water
- 2 cups cold water
Anna’s Tip: Don’t use warm water for the second step it won’t set right. Cold is key!
For the Decorative Layers:
- 8–10 vanilla cookies or graham crackers
Anna’s Tip: Go with vanilla wafers if you want a lighter “sand.” Graham crackers give you that golden beach look. - Gummy sea creatures fish, turtles, sharks, or octopuses
- Optional whipped cream (looks like ocean foam!)
- Optional mint leaves (for seaweed), sour belts (for coral), candy rocks or chocolate pebbles
Containers:
- Clear cups, mason jars, or dessert tumblers
Anna’s Tip: I love reusing glass yogurt jars they’re the perfect size for little hands and look adorable!
Step-by-Step Magic: How to Make Aquarium Terrariums
You don’t need to be a pro to pull this off. Here’s exactly how I do it with little helping hands and lots of laughter.
Step 1: Prepare the Gelatin Ocean
In a big bowl, stir the blue gelatin into 2 cups of boiling water. Stir for 2 whole minutes (yes, set a timer). Add 2 cups of cold water, stir again, then let it cool at room temperature for 10–15 minutes.
Anna’s Tip: It should be cool but not set if it starts jiggling, you’ve waited too long.
More tasty ideas: Hawaiian Cheesecake Salad
Step 2: Build the Ocean Floor
Place your cookies in a zip-top bag, then crush them with a rolling pin. Don’t make it too fine texture is fun! Add 2–3 tablespoons of crumbs into each jar and press down gently to form your sandy base.
Step 3: Pour in the Blue Ocean
Carefully pour the cooled gelatin over the “sand” layer, filling each jar about three-quarters full. Be slow and gentle you don’t want to disturb your sandy beach. Pop the jars into the fridge for 1–2 hours until they’re softly set.
Step 4: Dive in with Gummy Sea Creatures
Once the gelatin is jiggly but holds shape, press in your gummy fish and candy sea life. Add mint leaves or sour belts for seaweed and coral. Then back into the fridge they go until fully set about 2 more hours.
Step 5: Top with Whipped “Waves” (Optional)
Just before serving, top each jar with a fluffy swirl of whipped cream. Want to go extra? Let a gummy shark peek out like it’s breaching the waves.
Step 6: Serve, Smile & Enjoy
Bring them out with a smile and a spoon. Your guests especially the little ones will be amazed. These Edible Aquarium Terrariums are more than dessert. They’re a story you can eat.
Creative Variations You’ll Absolutely Love
These Aquarium Terrariums are fun to personalize. Here are a few ways we’ve played with them at home:
Glow-in-the-Dark Aquariums:
Swap some cold water with tonic water (it glows under blacklight!) and turn your dessert into a glowing ocean party.
Tropical Beach Jars:
Use pineapple gelatin for a shallower water vibe. Top with crushed graham crackers and tiny candy flip-flops. Add a cocktail umbrella for flair.
Mermaid Lagoon Edition:
Mix blue and purple gelatin in swirling layers, add edible glitter, and finish with a mermaid tail topper. This one’s my daughter’s favorite!
More tasty ideas: Rainbow Sherbet Piña Colada
Aquarium Parfait Style:
Alternate blue gelatin with vanilla pudding or whipped topping. Kids love discovering layers of “hidden sea creatures” as they dig in.
Why These Edible Aquarium Terrariums Are So Special
You know what I love most? These jars aren’t just about sugar or sweets. They’re about connection. About turning dessert into an activity, an adventure. My kids get to be creative, play with their food (yes, I allow it here!), and proudly serve their masterpieces.
They’re perfect for summer birthdays, beach-themed parties, or lazy afternoons when you just need a little joy in a jar. Plus, they’re budget-friendly, customizable, and easy enough for little helpers to get involved.
FAQ
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes! Use a dairy-free whipped topping or skip it altogether. Most gelatin and gummy candies are already dairy-free just double-check the labels.
Q: What’s the best way to get fish to “float”?
A: Wait until the gelatin is partially set jiggly but not firm. That way, you can press the gummies in and they’ll stay suspended like real fish.
Q: Can I make these a day ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can make the jars 24 hours in advance. Just add the whipped cream topping right before serving so it stays fluffy.
More tasty ideas: Cheeseburger Quesadillas – Crispy, Cheesy, Burger-Inspired Bites
Q: What can I use instead of gummies for an allergy-friendly version?
A: Try chopped fruit (like kiwi slices for sea turtles or blueberries for fish), mini marshmallows, or allergy-safe candy. Always check ingredients if you’re serving anyone with sensitivities.
If you try these Edible Aquarium Terrariums, please tag me I adore seeing your beautiful creations. This recipe is more than dessert. It’s a memory in the making. Just like the first time my son asked to jar the ocean, I hope it sparks magic in your kitchen too.
Edible Aquarium Terrariums
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Measuring Cup
- Zip-top Bag
- Rolling Pin
- Spoon
- Clear Jars or Cups
Ingredients
Gelatin Base
- 2 boxes (3 oz each) Blue Gelatin Mix such as Berry Blue Jell-O
- 2 cups Boiling Water
- 2 cups Cold Water
Decorative Layers
- 10 Vanilla Cookies or Graham Crackers crushed for sand
- 1 cup Gummy Sea Creatures fish, sharks, turtles, or octopuses
- 0.5 cup Whipped Cream optional, for waves
- 0.25 cup Mint Leaves optional, for seaweed
- 4 strips Sour Belts optional, for coral strips
- 0.25 cup Candy Rocks or Chocolate Pebbles optional
