About the Recipe
Make a colorful Under the Sea Gelatin Dessert with blue gelatin, gummy sharks, sea creatures, and a crunchy gluten-free cookie-sand base.
Create a fun and colorful Under the Sea Gelatin Dessert featuring shimmering blue gelatin, playful gummy sharks and sea creatures, and a crunchy cookie-sand base. This easy no-bake dessert transforms simple ingredients into an enchanting underwater scene.
The vibrant blue gelatin resembles sparkling ocean water, while gummy sharks, fish, and other sea creatures appear to swim throughout the dessert. A layer of crushed gluten-free vanilla sandwich cookies creates a sandy ocean floor that adds flavor, texture, and visual appeal.
Served in a clear glass trifle bowl, this cheerful dessert makes an eye-catching centerpiece for shark-themed birthdays, pool parties, beach gatherings, ocean-themed events, and summer celebrations. Children can even help arrange the candies and design their own edible underwater world.
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: 4 to 6 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes to 6 hours 30 minutes
Yield: 10 to 12 servings
Ingredients
For the Sandy Ocean Floor
1 cup crushed gluten-free vanilla sandwich cookies
2 tablespoons melted butter
2 tablespoons colorful decorating sugar or coarse sanding sugar
1 cup NERDS candy, optional
For the Blue Ocean Gelatin
3 (3-ounce) boxes berry blue gelatin
6 cups boiling water
2 cups cold water
For Decorating and Serving
1 cup gummy sharks, gummy fish, Swedish Fish, or a combination
Additional gummy sea creatures for decorating the top, if desired
Whipped cream, for serving, optional
Directions
Step 1: Create the Sandy Ocean Floor
In a small bowl, combine the crushed gluten-free vanilla sandwich cookies, melted butter, and decorating sugar until evenly coated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a large glass trifle bowl to create the appearance of a sandy ocean floor.
For an extra colorful and crunchy surprise, scatter the optional NERDS candy over the cookie layer. For the best texture, add the candy shortly before completing the dessert because it will soften as it absorbs moisture.
Step 2: Prepare the Blue Ocean Gelatin
Place the berry blue gelatin powder in a large heatproof bowl. Add the boiling water and whisk for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the gelatin has dissolved completely.
Stir in the cold water. Allow the gelatin mixture to cool at room temperature for approximately 15 minutes before assembling the dessert.
Step 3: Pour the First Ocean Layer
Carefully pour enough of the cooled gelatin mixture over the cookie crumb layer to cover it by approximately 1 inch.
Refrigerate for 30 to 45 minutes, or until the gelatin is partially set but still soft enough to hold the candy decorations.
Step 4: Add the Sea Creatures
Arrange gummy sharks, gummy fish, and other sea creature candies around the inside of the trifle bowl. Gently press the candies against the glass so they appear to be swimming through the blue water.
Scatter additional candies throughout the center of the partially set gelatin.
Step 5: Complete the Ocean Gelatin
Slowly pour the remaining cooled gelatin into the trifle bowl, taking care not to disturb the arranged candies.
If desired, add more gummy sea creatures at varying depths as the gelatin is poured. Refrigerate the dessert for 4 to 6 hours, or until the gelatin is completely firm.
Step 6: Decorate and Serve
Just before serving, decorate the top with additional gummy sharks, fish, and sea creatures to create a lively underwater scene.
Serve the Under the Sea Gelatin Dessert chilled on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream.
Notes
For the clearest ocean effect, allow the gelatin mixture to cool slightly before pouring it into the trifle bowl.
Adding the gummy candies in stages helps distribute them throughout the gelatin instead of concentrating them in one area.
Some gummy candies may soften, swell, or release color when placed in gelatin for several hours. For the sharpest details, add some of the decorations shortly before serving.
For a deeper ocean-blue color, add a few drops of blue food coloring to the prepared gelatin before chilling.
Gluten-free graham cracker crumbs may be substituted for the gluten-free vanilla sandwich cookie crumbs.
NERDS candy creates a colorful ocean-floor effect and adds a sweet, tangy crunch, but it will soften over time. For the best texture, assemble that layer as close to serving time as possible.
The listed liquid quantities produce a softer gelatin than the standard preparation for three 3-ounce boxes. For a firmer dessert that holds suspended candies more securely, check the package directions for the appropriate amount of boiling and cold water.
Cover and refrigerate leftovers promptly. For the best appearance and texture, enjoy them within 3 days.
Gelatin desserts and gummy candies are not necessarily vegetarian because they may contain animal-derived gelatin.
When preparing this dessert for someone with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, select appropriately labeled gluten-free cookies, gelatin, candies, decorating sugar, food coloring, and toppings. Prevent cross-contact during preparation and serving.
