I love making these guacamole cups because they look impressive while being very simple to prepare. The crispy tortilla shells pair perfectly with the creamy guacamole filling, creating a delicious contrast of textures.
These appetizers are perfect for parties, game nights, potlucks, or casual snacks. I also enjoy how customizable they are since I can change the toppings depending on what I have available.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
6 large tortillas
Cooking spray
2 packages classic guacamole
1 roma tomato, diced
1/4 red onion, finely diced
1/2 jalapeño, finely diced
1 teaspoon olive oil
1 1/4 cups frozen corn
Thinly sliced jalapeño, for garnish
Fresh cilantro, finely chopped
Directions
I preheat the oven to 350°F.
I stack the tortillas on a cutting board and trim the edges to create large squares.
I cut each tortilla into 4 smaller squares so I end up with 24 pieces total.
I spray a cupcake tin with cooking spray and gently press one tortilla square into each cavity to form little cups.
I lightly spray the tops of the tortilla cups with cooking spray.
I bake the tortilla cups for about 10–12 minutes until golden and crispy.
After baking, I let them cool for about 5 minutes before carefully removing them from the pan.
While the tortilla cups bake, I heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and add the frozen corn.
I cook the corn for about 5–7 minutes until slightly browned and toasted. I reserve a small amount for topping later.
In a mixing bowl, I combine the guacamole, diced tomato, red onion, jalapeño, and cooked corn.
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, I fill each tortilla cup with the guacamole mixture.
I garnish the cups with extra corn, sliced jalapeños, and chopped cilantro before serving.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes about 24 guacamole cups.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
I sometimes add shredded cheese, black beans, or diced avocado chunks for extra texture. When I want a smoky flavor, I mix in roasted poblano peppers or smoked paprika.
For a heartier appetizer, I occasionally top the cups with grilled shrimp, shredded chicken, or crispy bacon bits. I also enjoy adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving.
storage/reheating
I store leftover tortilla cups and guacamole filling separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The tortilla cups stay crisp for about 2 days when stored separately.
I prefer assembling the cups right before serving to keep them crunchy. If needed, I re-crisp the tortilla cups in the oven for a few minutes before filling them again.
FAQs
Can I make the tortilla cups ahead of time?
I often bake the tortilla cups a day ahead and store them in an airtight container until ready to use.
Can I use homemade guacamole?
I love using homemade guacamole when I have extra avocados available, though store-bought works great too.
How do I keep the guacamole from browning?
I add fresh lime juice and keep the guacamole tightly covered until serving.
Can I make these spicy?
I easily increase the heat by adding extra jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce.
What can I use instead of tortillas?
I sometimes use wonton wrappers for a thinner and crispier shell variation.
Conclusion
These easy guacamole cups are crunchy, creamy, and packed with fresh flavor in every bite. I love how simple they are to prepare while still looking festive and impressive for parties and gatherings. Whether I serve them as appetizers, snacks, or game-day treats, they always become one of the first dishes to disappear.
A fun appetizer recipe made with crispy tortilla cups filled with creamy guacamole, roasted corn, tomatoes, and fresh toppings.
Author:Emma
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:10 minutes
Total Time:20 minutes
Yield:24 appetizer cups
Category:Appetizer
Method:Baked
Cuisine:Mexican-Inspired
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
6 large tortillas
Cooking spray
2 (7.5 oz) packages classic guacamole
1 Roma tomato, diced
1/4 red onion, finely diced
1/2 jalapeño, finely diced (optional)
1 tsp olive oil
1¼ cups frozen corn (or fresh corn)
Thinly sliced jalapeño, for garnish
Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Stack the tortillas on a cutting board and trim off the rounded edges to create squares.
Cut each tortilla square into 4 smaller squares, making 24 pieces total.
Spray a cupcake or muffin tin with cooking spray.
Press one tortilla square into each muffin cavity, shaping them into small cups.
Lightly spray the tops of the tortilla cups with cooking spray.
Bake for 10–12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Remove from the oven and let cool for about 5 minutes before carefully removing from the pan.
While the tortilla cups bake, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add the frozen corn and cook for 5–7 minutes until lightly browned and slightly charred. Reserve 2 tablespoons for topping.
In a mixing bowl, combine the guacamole, diced tomato, red onion, jalapeño, and cooked corn.
Stir gently until well mixed.
Fill each tortilla cup with the guacamole mixture using a spoon or cookie scoop.
Garnish with reserved corn, sliced jalapeños, and fresh cilantro.
Serve immediately and enjoy.
Notes
Fresh corn can be grilled or sautéed for extra flavor.
Assemble just before serving to keep tortilla cups crispy.
Add crumbled cotija cheese for extra flavor.
Perfect for parties, potlucks, and taco nights.