Glow-in-the-Dark Jello Worms (Printable)

Spooky wiggly treats glowing under blacklight, perfect for Halloween parties with kids and adults.

# What you'll need:

→ Worm Base

01 - 1 package (3 oz) lime-flavored gelatin
02 - 1 packet (0.25 oz) unflavored gelatin
03 - 1 cup boiling tonic water
04 - 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
05 - 10 drops green food coloring
06 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Assembly

07 - 40 to 50 flexible plastic straws
08 - 1 tall glass or container

# Method:

01 - Place the lime-flavored gelatin and unflavored gelatin in a heatproof mixing bowl.
02 - Pour boiling tonic water over the gelatin mixture. Stir until both gelatins are fully dissolved, about 2 minutes.
03 - Mix in heavy whipping cream, green food coloring, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is completely smooth.
04 - Gather the flexible plastic straws, bendable ends down, and arrange them tightly upright inside a tall glass or container.
05 - Pour the prepared gelatin mixture into the openings of the straws, filling each one. Tap the container gently to release any trapped air bubbles.
06 - Transfer the filled straws to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or until the gelatin is completely firm.
07 - Remove straws from the container. Run each straw under warm water for a few seconds, then squeeze or roll with a small rolling pin to extract the gelatin worms.
08 - Arrange worms on a serving plate and refrigerate until ready to serve. For a glow effect, present under blacklight.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Fun interactive activity great for making with kids
  • Eye-catching glow impresses guests at every party
  • Requires only easy-to-find grocery items and simple equipment
  • Perfect for Halloween or any glow-themed celebration
02 -
  • Quinine in the tonic water is what makes these worms glow
  • Customizable with different gelatin flavors for multicolor effect
  • A showstopper for allergy-aware parties when using vegetarian gelatin
03 -
  • Always check labels on your tonic water some have sugar or citrus added
  • If the worms seem stuck in straws try a little more warm water or cut the straws open with scissors
  • For firmer worms use extra unflavored gelatin for double wiggle

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