Layered blue Jello packed with gummy sharks, floatie rings, and candy swimmers—perfect for Shark Week fun.

If you’re planning a summer bash or a themed treat for Shark Week, these Shark Week Jello Cups are a must. Bright blue, layered with candy, and packed with gummy sharks, they’re fun to make and even more fun to eat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Uses simple ingredients like blue Jello and gummy sharks.
• Perfect make-ahead treat for Shark Week or summer parties.
• Kid-friendly and great for themed dessert tables.
• No baking required—just chill and decorate.
• Looks impressive but is super easy to assemble.
• Customizable with different candies and flavors.
• Fun activity to make with kids.

Ingredient Notes

• Blue Jello Mix – You’ll need two (6 oz) boxes of Berry Blue Jell-O or a similar store-brand gelatin. The vibrant color gives it that perfect “ocean water” look.
• Disposable Cups – Use clear 8 oz plastic cups so the layers and candy decorations show through. These ones work great.
• Gummy Sharks – Regular or sour gummy sharks both work! Push some inside the Jello and save a few for topping.
• SweeTARTS Gummy Halos – These round gummies look like floaties—super fun for decorating! Find them here.
• Sour Patch Kids – These little swimmers add a pop of color and a sour-sweet twist on top. You can also swap with another mini gummy candy if preferred.

Before You Make

Do I have to wait until the Jello is fully set before adding the gummy sharks?
Nope! For best results, add the gummy sharks when the Jello is soft set—firm enough to hold shape but still soft enough to push the candies in without them floating to the top.

Can I use different cup sizes?
Yes, but 8 oz clear cups show off the layers and hold the right amount for party servings. If you use smaller or larger cups, adjust the number of servings accordingly.

Can I make these the night before?
Absolutely! These are perfect for making ahead. Just store them covered in the fridge and add the final candy toppings right before serving for the best texture.

Shark Week Jello Cups

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Taryn Camp

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 6 clear 8 oz disposable cups – shop them here
• 2 (6 oz) boxes Berry Blue Jell-O or any blue gelatin mix
• Gummy sharks – regular or sour
• SweeTARTS Gummy Halos or any ring-shaped gummies – see them here
• Sour Patch Kids

Instructions

1. Set your cups on a flat tray or baking sheet so you can move them easily.
2. Prepare the blue Jello according to the package instructions using both boxes (you’ll need 4 cups boiling water and 4 cups cold water total).
3. Carefully pour the liquid Jello into the cups, dividing evenly.
4. Place in the fridge and chill until soft set, about 45–60 minutes. (Soft set means the Jello is thickened enough to hold its shape but still soft enough to press toppings into.) If it hasn’t reached that texture, refrigerate for another 30 minutes and check again.
5. Gently press 2–3 gummy sharks into each cup. Use your fingers or the back of a spoon to push them down slightly into the Jello.
6. Return cups to the fridge and chill until fully set, about 2 more hours.
7. Before serving, top each cup with an extra gummy shark, a gummy halo as a float tube, and a Sour Patch Kid for “dangerously” fun scene.

Notes

Makes 6 (8 oz) servings

FAQ

Can I use a different flavor of Jello?
Yes, but blue Jello creates that ocean look that’s perfect for Shark Week. Try blue raspberry, berry blue, or mix with clear gelatin and food coloring.

Where can I find gummy sharks?
Most grocery stores carry them in the candy aisle, or you can order them online. Sour or regular both work!

Can I make this recipe sugar-free?
You can use sugar-free Jello and look for sugar-free gummy candy options, though the texture may be slightly different.

How long does Jello take to fully set?
After soft setting and placing your candies inside, allow at least 2 more hours for the Jello to firm up completely—longer if your fridge runs cold.

How should I store leftovers?
Keep any leftover cups in the fridge, covered tightly with plastic wrap. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Sprinkle of Fun

Make these for the super trendy and always popular Shark Week. Invite friends over, pop some popcorn, and serve up a batch of Shark Week Jello Cups for a themed snack everyone will love. Got kids? Queue up an episode of Baby Shark and turn it into a full-on shark-tastic celebration.