These guacamole cups are a fun and tasty treat! Imagine creamy guacamole served in crispy little cups, perfect for snacking or sharing with friends.
You’ll love how easy they are to make! Just scoop the guacamole into the cups, and you have an instant party-ready snack that always gets smiles. Plus, no mess—yay!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn Tortillas: They form the base of the cups. If you can’t find small ones, cut larger tortillas into smaller pieces. You can also use flour tortillas for a different flavor but expect a softer texture.
Avocados: Choose ripe ones for the best creamy texture. If you’re in a pinch, you might consider using store-bought guacamole instead, though making your own is usually tastier.
Red Bell Pepper: This adds sweetness and crunch. Feel free to swap it for green peppers or even diced tomatoes if you prefer. Both will add color and freshness!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings a great flavor. If you’re not a fan, parsley or green onions can be a mild alternative.
Jalapeño: This is optional for spice. If it’s too hot for you, leave it out, or try a mild pepper or a sprinkle of chili powder instead for a bit of heat.
How Do I Make the Perfect Tortilla Cups?
Creating crispy tortilla cups is all about the right temperature and technique. Here’s how to do it:
- **Heat the Oil:** Make sure your oil is hot enough (about 350°F or 175°C) before adding the tortillas. A kitchen thermometer is helpful here.
- **Shape the Tortillas:** Carefully press the tortillas into a muffin tin or shape them by hand. They should fit snugly but not be crammed.
- **Fry Until Golden:** Fry the tortilla cups for about 2-3 minutes, flipping them halfway to ensure even cooking. They should be crispy and golden brown.
- **Drain Properly:** Let them drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. This keeps them crunchy!
With these tips, you’ll have the perfect base for your guacamole! Enjoy the process and the tasty results!
How to Make Delicious Guacamole Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tortilla Cups:
- 12 small corn tortillas
- Cooking oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)
For the Guacamole Filling:
- 3 ripe avocados
- 1/2 cup finely diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup finely chopped white onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional, for heat)
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnishing:
- 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese (optional)
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll need about 10 minutes to prepare the ingredients, 15 minutes to fry the tortilla cups, and the remaining time to assemble everything together. So, get ready to enjoy a fun cooking experience!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tortilla Cups:
Start by heating about 1 inch of cooking oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). While the oil is heating, cut the corn tortillas into halves or thirds depending on how big you want your cups to be. If you have small tortillas, you can leave them whole!
2. Shape and Fry the Tortillas:
Once the oil is hot, carefully press the small pieces of tortilla into a mini muffin tin to shape them into cups. If you don’t have a muffin tin, you can shape them by hand. Fry the tortilla cups in the hot oil for about 2-3 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and let them drain on paper towels. Set aside to cool.
3. Make the Guacamole:
In a mixing bowl, scoop out the flesh of the ripe avocados. Mash it lightly with a fork, leaving some small chunks for texture. You can make it as smooth or chunky as you like!
4. Add Flavorful Ingredients:
Mix in the diced red bell pepper, chopped onion, fresh cilantro, minced jalapeño (if using), and the fresh juice from the lime. Stir everything together gently to combine. Be sure to season with salt and pepper to taste for that extra flavor.
5. Assemble the Guacamole Cups:
Now it’s time to put it all together! Spoon the guacamole mixture into each crispy tortilla cup. Fill them generously but don’t overfill, as you want to enjoy each bite without spilling!
6. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, sprinkle some crumbled cotija cheese on top of the guacamole cups for added flavor. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for a zesty finish.
Enjoy your crispy, flavorful guacamole cups! They make a fantastic appetizer or a fun snack for gatherings. Happy eating!
Can I Use Store-Bought Guacamole?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time or want a quicker option, using store-bought guacamole is a great shortcut. Just make sure to choose a brand that you enjoy and trust for flavor!
How Do I Keep Tortilla Cups Crispy After Frying?
To keep your tortilla cups crispy, store them in a single layer on a wire rack instead of stacking them. This allows air to circulate and prevents them from getting soggy. They’ll stay crispier until you’re ready to fill them!
Can I Prepare These Cups Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the tortilla cups ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. However, for the freshest guacamole taste, it’s best to prepare that right before serving, as it can brown if stored too long.
What Other Fillings Can I Use in These Cups?
The possibilities are endless! You can add ingredients like diced tomatoes, black beans, grilled corn, or cheese for variation. Get creative with your favorite flavors!
