Can I make this guacamole ahead of time?

Yes, but with some precautions. The apple may oxidize and the avocado can brown if made too far in advance. For best results, prepare up to 3-4 hours ahead, add extra lime juice, and keep tightly covered with plastic wrap directly on the surface of the guacamole.

My avocados aren't ripe enough. Any quick ripening tips?

Place unripe avocados in a paper bag with a banana or apple and fold the top closed. The ethylene gas released by these fruits will speed up the ripening process, usually within 1-2 days. For same-day use, you can wrap the avocado in foil and bake at 200°F for 10 minutes, then cool completely in the refrigerator.

Can I use a different type of apple?

Absolutely! While tart green apples provide the best contrast to creamy avocado, sweet varieties like Honeycrisp or Gala can work well too. Just know that the flavor profile will shift slightly sweeter.

How spicy is this guacamole?

With just half a jalapeño, this recipe has a mild to medium heat level. For a spicier version, leave in some seeds and membrane or use a whole jalapeño. For less heat, remove all seeds and membrane or substitute with a milder pepper like poblano.

Apple Guacamole Recipe

Name: Apple Guacamole Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-484094H40M56S
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Ingredients: 3 ripe avocados – pitted and flesh removed; 3/4 cup green apple – diced (about 1/2 large green apple); 1/4 cup cilantro – chopped; 1/2 jalapeño – small dice; 1 tbsp lime juice; 1/4 cup red onion – small dice; 1 tsp kosher salt

This Apple Guacamole is a delightful twist on the classic dip that adds a surprising crisp sweetness to complement the creamy avocado. The combination of buttery avocados with tart green apple creates an irresistible flavor profile that will have your guests asking for the recipe. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s the perfect quick appetizer for unexpected company or a fresh addition to your next taco night!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready in Minutes: From start to finish, this guacamole takes only 10 minutes to prepare—perfect for last-minute entertaining or when that guacamole craving hits!
Unexpected Twist: The addition of green apple brings a refreshing crunch and slight sweetness that perfectly balances the rich avocado and spicy jalapeño.
Crowd-Pleaser: Even guacamole purists will be converted after one bite of this uniquely delicious variation.
Naturally Healthy: Packed with good fats from avocados and fresh ingredients, you can feel good about serving this dip.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Avocados: The star of the show! Choose ripe avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure for that perfect creamy base.
Green Apple: Adds a surprising crunch and tart sweetness that transforms traditional guacamole. Granny Smith works beautifully here.
Cilantro: Brings that fresh, herbal note that’s essential in any good guacamole. If you’re in the cilantro-averse camp, try substituting with flat-leaf parsley.
Jalapeño: Provides just enough heat to balance the sweetness of the apple. Remove the seeds and membranes if you prefer a milder kick.
Lime Juice: Not just for flavor—it helps prevent the avocado from browning and adds necessary acidity to balance the richness.
Red Onion: Contributes a sharp bite and beautiful color contrast. Make sure to dice it small for the best texture experience.
Kosher Salt: Enhances all the flavors and brings everything together. Don’t skimp here!

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Take this already fantastic Apple Guacamole to new heights with these creative variations:

Sweet & Spicy: Add a tablespoon of finely diced pineapple along with a pinch of cayenne for a tropical heat explosion.
Autumn Harvest: Mix in a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds and toasted pepitas for seasonal flair and added texture.
Smoky Apple: Add 1/4 teaspoon of ground cumin and a dash of smoked paprika for a deeper, more complex flavor profile.
Cheesy Twist: Fold in 2 tablespoons of crumbled cotija or feta cheese just before serving for a savory dimension.

How to Make Apple Guacamole

Step 1: Prepare the Base

In a medium bowl, add the avocado flesh and mash it with the back of a fork until you reach your desired consistency. I prefer to leave it somewhat chunky for texture, but you can make it smoother if that’s your preference.

Step 2: Mix in the Fresh Ingredients

Add the diced green apple, chopped cilantro, jalapeño, red onion, lime juice, and kosher salt to the mashed avocados.

Step 3: Combine and Adjust

Gently fold everything together until well combined. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed—maybe a splash more lime juice or an extra pinch of salt.

Step 4: Chill Before Serving

Cover the surface directly with plastic wrap (to prevent browning) and refrigerate until ready to serve. Even just 15-30 minutes of chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Apple Selection: Choose a firm, tart apple like Granny Smith. The crispness provides textural contrast, and the tartness balances the creamy avocado.
Prevent Browning: If not serving immediately, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the guacamole to prevent air exposure, which causes browning.
Texture Control: For the best texture, dice the apple and red onion into small, uniform pieces—about 1/4 inch is perfect.
Save the Pit: Place one of the avocado pits in the center of your finished guacamole to help prevent browning if storing for a few hours.

How to Serve

This Apple Guacamole shines as both a dip and a topping. Here are my favorite ways to serve it:

As a Dip:

Pair with sturdy tortilla chips, pita chips, or even apple slices for an extra apple punch. For a low-carb option, serve with cucumber rounds or bell pepper strips.

As a Topping:

Spoon this guacamole onto tacos, grilled chicken, or fish for an instant flavor upgrade. It’s particularly delicious with pork dishes, where the apple complements the meat beautifully.

On a Board:

Include this guacamole as part of a Mexican-inspired grazing board with chips, salsas, cheeses, and sliced meats for a casual entertaining option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Apple guacamole is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, transfer to an airtight container. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the guacamole before sealing with a lid. Store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

Freezing

While you technically can freeze guacamole, I don’t recommend freezing this apple version as the fruit will change texture significantly upon thawing.

Preventing Browning

If preparing a few hours ahead, add an extra splash of lime juice on top before covering with plastic wrap. The acid helps prevent oxidation that causes browning.

FAQs

Can I make this guacamole ahead of time?

Yes, but with some precautions. The apple may oxidize and the avocado can brown if made too far in advance. For best results, prepare up to 3-4 hours ahead, add extra lime juice, and keep tightly covered with plastic wrap directly on the surface of the guacamole.
My avocados aren’t ripe enough. Any quick ripening tips?

Place unripe avocados in a paper bag with a banana or apple and fold the top closed. The ethylene gas released by these fruits will speed up the ripening process, usually within 1-2 days. For same-day use, you can wrap the avocado in foil and bake at 200°F for 10 minutes, then cool completely in the refrigerator.
Can I use a different type of apple?

Absolutely! While tart green apples provide the best contrast to creamy avocado, sweet varieties like Honeycrisp or Gala can work well too. Just know that the flavor profile will shift slightly sweeter.
How spicy is this guacamole?

With just half a jalapeño, this recipe has a mild to medium heat level. For a spicier version, leave in some seeds and membrane or use a whole jalapeño. For less heat, remove all seeds and membrane or substitute with a milder pepper like poblano.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Guacamole takes a beloved classic and elevates it with an unexpected twist that simply works. The crisp sweetness of apple against creamy avocado creates a flavor combination that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself to a special snack, this 10-minute recipe delivers major flavor with minimal effort. Give your taste buds something to talk about and whip up a batch today!