Looking for a summer snack that’s fun to make, irresistible to eat, and visually stunning? I love making these Edible Aquarium Popsicles, the ultimate under-the-sea frozen treat, complete with colorful gummy fish swimming inside an ocean-blue base.

Edible Aquarium Popsicles – A Splashy Summer Treat for Kids!

Why I Love This Recipe

I find these popsicles to be:

Refreshing
Kid-approved
Great for parties, summer camps, or ocean-themed weeks

With only 5 simple ingredients, I can create a magical, edible aquarium inside a popsicle mold. The layers of blue sports drink and clear lemonade mimic the shimmer of ocean water, while the gummy fish float and freeze inside like tiny sea creatures.

Perfect for:

Birthday parties
Ocean unit studies or summer STEM
Fourth of July (I add red & white gummies)
Hot afternoons at home

These popsicles are equal parts science experiment, art project, and delicious dessert.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups blue sports drink (e.g., Blue Raspberry Gatorade® or Powerade®)
1 cup clear lemonade (store-bought or homemade)
1–1½ cups gummy fish (Swedish Fish® or other small fish-shaped gummies, assorted colors)
Popsicle molds (6–8 capacity)
Popsicle sticks (if not built into the molds)

Optional: I sometimes add a few drops of lemon juice for a tart contrast or replace lemonade with coconut water for a healthier twist.

Directions

Mix the Ocean Base
In a large measuring jug or bowl with a pour spout, I mix together:
- 2 cups of blue sports drink
- 1 cup of clear lemonade
  This vibrant mixture creates a sparkling sea-like background that mimics the look of ocean water. I can adjust the color by adding a drop of blue food coloring for more intensity if needed.
Prepare the Popsicle Molds
- I place 1–2 gummy fish into the bottom of each popsicle mold.
- I pour a small amount (about ¼ full) of the blue mixture into each mold.
- I freeze for 20–30 minutes, or until slushy but not fully frozen. This step helps suspend the fish so they don’t all float to the top.
Add More Fish and Liquid
- I add another 1–2 gummy fish to each mold.
- I fill the molds to the top with the remaining blue lemonade mixture.
- I insert popsicle sticks (or use built-in handles).
- I freeze for at least 4–6 hours, or overnight for best results.
Unmold and Serve
To unmold:
- I run warm water over the outside of each mold for 10–15 seconds.
- I gently pull to release.
  I reveal a stunning popsicle filled with layers of floating, colorful fish that look like they’re swimming in a mini ocean!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6–8 popsicles (depending on mold size)
Hands-on Prep Time: 15–20 minutes
Layer Freezing (optional): 30–60 minutes
Final Freeze Time: 4–6 hours
Total Time: ~6–8 hours (mostly freezing)

Variations

Tropical Aquarium Pops

I replace lemonade with pineapple juice or coconut water.
I add small chunks of fruit (like kiwi for seaweed or mango for coral).
I use gummy turtles or sharks for variety.

Rainbow Ocean Pops

I use different colors of sports drink (e.g., green, purple, orange) in layers.
I freeze each layer for 30 minutes before adding the next for a striped look.
I match the gummy colors to the layers for a fun gradient effect.

Dessert Popsicles

I add a layer of whipped topping or sweetened condensed milk between blue layers for a creamy swirl.
I top with sprinkles or edible glitter for magical sea sparkle.

Storage/Reheating

I keep the popsicles frozen in an airtight bag or container for up to 2 weeks.
I place wax paper between popsicles to prevent sticking.
I don’t refreeze once melted.

FAQs

Can I use fruit juice instead of sports drinks?

Yes, I can, but clear or lightly tinted juices (like white grape or apple) work best for the aquarium effect.

My gummies floated to the top — what can I do?

I freeze the mixture in layers. I start with a little liquid and a few fish, freeze until slushy, then repeat.

Do the gummies freeze hard?

Some brands stay chewy while others firm up. I let the pops sit at room temp for 1–2 minutes before eating for best texture.

Can I make these vegan?

Yes! I use gelatin-free gummy candies (like Surf Sweets®), and plant-based drinks (like coconut water or lemonade).

Can I use silicone molds instead?

Absolutely! Silicone molds work great and make it easier to remove popsicles without warm water.

Conclusion

Edible Aquarium Popsicles aren’t just a tasty way to cool down — they’re a full sensory experience for kids and grown-ups alike. With colorful fish swimming in a vibrant blue sea, these popsicles are part recipe, part edible craft, and 100% fun.

They’re simple to prepare, visually stunning, and a hit at summer parties, science weeks, or rainy-day kitchen projects. With just a few everyday ingredients and a bit of creativity, I can dive into snack time with a splash!