If you’re craving a fun, festive appetizer that’s as colorful as it is flavorful, these 7 Layer Dip Cups Recipe are about to become your new go-to! Imagine all the best textures and tastes of the classic seven-layer dip, but perfectly portioned for easy serving and sharing. Each cup is a little party of creamy refried beans, tangy guacamole, sharp cheddar, zesty jalapenos, and fresh veggies, all stacked beautifully to impress your guests or delight your family. They’re not only delicious but also super convenient for any gathering or casual snack time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows six small white bowls and a wooden bowl arranged on a white marbled surface. The wooden bowl holds bright yellow tortilla chips with a light texture. Surrounding it are six white bowls: the top one contains dark blue corn tortilla chips, the next to the left has green guacamole with a smooth, creamy texture, below it is an orange cheese sauce with a slightly rough texture, below that is a beige sour cream with a smooth swirl on top, and to the left of the blue chips bowl is a white bowl with several chopped ingredients including green cilantro, black olives, and red tomatoes. The colors and layers are clearly shown. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Simple and vibrant ingredients are the key to making these 7 Layer Dip Cups Recipe an irresistible treat. Each one plays a vital role, balancing creaminess, spice, and freshness to give every bite that unbeatable layered goodness.

Refried beans (16oz): The hearty base adds smooth texture and earthy flavor to ground the layers.
Cream cheese, softened (8 oz): Blended with beans for a rich and creamy foundation with a touch of tang.
Guacamole (2 cups): Brings fresh avocado creaminess and vibrant green color, brightening every bite.
Sliced black olives (1/2 cup): Adds a salty, savory pop that contrasts nicely with the creamy layers.
Sliced tomatoes (1/2 cup): Freshness and juiciness to add a lovely acidic balance.
Sliced jalapenos (1/2 cup): For that perfect kick of heat, customizable to your spice preference.
Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Sharp, melty cheese to add richness and a burst of flavor.
Nachos or tortilla chips: Essential for scooping and adding that irresistible crunch.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make 7 Layer Dip Cups Recipe

Step 1: Combine Beans and Cream Cheese

Start by mixing your refried beans with the softened cream cheese until the two meld into a creamy, well-blended base. This duo sets the tone with smooth texture and rich flavor that anchors the dip layers perfectly.

Step 2: Chill the Mixture (Optional)

If you love a chilled dip cup, pop the bean and cream cheese mixture into the fridge for about one hour. This helps the flavors develop and makes layering easier.

Step 3: Layer Your Base

Spoon about two tablespoons of the refried bean and cream cheese blend into the bottom of each serving cup. This simple step starts building that beautiful layered effect everyone loves.

Step 4: Add the Guacamole Layer

Next, carefully add roughly three tablespoons of guacamole to each cup. This creamy layer not only adds a burst of freshness but also a lovely green color that’s inviting and vibrant.

Step 5: Spoon on Sour Cream

Top the guacamole with two tablespoons of sour cream per cup for a cool, tangy contrast that softens the heat of the later jalapeno layer and enhances the creamy texture.

Step 6: Sprinkle on Cheese and Veggies

Now it’s time for the fun toppings. Sprinkle shredded cheddar evenly, then scatter black olives, diced tomatoes, and add one sliced jalapeno per cup. These colorful ingredients not only taste fantastic but make each cup a visual delight.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

To finish, tuck in a few nachos or tortilla chips into each cup for crunch and easy dipping. Serve immediately or store in the fridge until your guests arrive.

How to Serve 7 Layer Dip Cups Recipe

The image shows two clear hexagonal glasses filled with layered dip sitting on a white marbled surface. Each glass has three layers: a bottom dark grey or black layer with a coarse texture, a middle smooth light green layer, and a top thick white layer. The glass on the left is topped with a small heap of shredded bright orange cheese, and a woman's hand is placing more cheese on top. The glass on the right has the same three layers but is garnished with slices of green jalapeño, small pieces of red tomato, and shredded cheese on top, with a woman's hand holding a yellow tortilla chip dipping into it. In the background, there is a white marbled surface with blurred objects including a brown bowl of tortilla chips. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh cilantro sprigs, extra jalapeno slices for those who love it spicy, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can add that extra flair and color. These garnishes elevate the cups and invite guests to customize their bite.

Side Dishes

Pair your 7 Layer Dip Cups Recipe with some crisp veggie sticks, like carrots and celery, or alongside crispy baked tortilla chips for a crowd-pleasing combo that’s perfect for parties and casual get-togethers.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive occasion, present these dip cups in a decorative tray filled with crushed tortilla chips to keep the cups steady. Or serve in clear mini mason jars to showcase the vibrant layers and make every serving feel special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover 7 Layer Dip Cups should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, ideally covered with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. They keep well for up to two days while maintaining freshness and flavor.

Freezing

This recipe is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated. Freezing is not recommended because the texture of the guacamole, sour cream, and beans can change unpleasantly upon thawing.

Reheating

Since this is a cold and creamy dip, reheating isn’t necessary or ideal. If you want a warm bean and cheese layer, you might consider assembling the cups fresh and warming only the bean mixture separately before layering.

FAQs

Can I make 7 Layer Dip Cups Recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Swap out the cream cheese and sour cream for vegan alternatives, use dairy-free cheddar, and ensure the nachos are vegan-friendly. The rest of the ingredients are naturally plant-based.

How long do the dip cups keep fresh?

Stored properly in the fridge, they stay fresh for about two days. Beyond that, the guacamole may begin to brown, and the textures can shift.

Can I prepare the dip cups ahead of time?

You can prepare the bean and cream cheese layer a day in advance to save time, but it’s best to assemble the layers on the day you plan to serve to keep everything looking fresh and vibrant.

What if I don’t have individual cups?

No worries! You can serve the dip layered in a large dish for scooping. However, the 7 Layer Dip Cups Recipe really shines in individual portions for easy serving and visual appeal.

Can I adjust the spice level?

Definitely! Simply reduce or omit the jalapenos if you prefer mild, or add extra sliced jalapenos or hot sauce for a spicier kick.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or just craving a snack that packs a punch, the 7 Layer Dip Cups Recipe is pure magic in every bite. With its vibrant layers, delightful textures, and savory flavors, it’s sure to please every palate at the table. Give this recipe a try, and watch it become an instant favorite in your appetizer lineup!

7 Layer Dip Cups Recipe

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.1 from 6 reviews

These 7 Layer Dip Cups are a delicious and convenient way to enjoy a classic party dip in individual servings. Layers of creamy refried beans and cream cheese, fresh guacamole, tangy sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, black olives, tomatoes, and jalapenos create a flavorful and colorful snack perfect for gatherings or casual snacking. Served with crunchy tortilla chips, these dip cups are easy to assemble and can be prepared ahead of time.

Author: Paula
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including optional chilling)
Yield: 10 servings
Category: Appetizer
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients

Bean Layer

1 can refried beans (16 oz)
8 oz cream cheese, softened

Guacamole Layer

2 cups guacamole

Sour Cream Layer

About 2 tablespoons sour cream per cup (approx. 1 cup total for 10 servings)

Toppings

1/2 cup sliced black olives
1/2 cup sliced tomatoes
1/2 cup sliced jalapenos
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

For Serving

Nachos or tortilla chips for dipping and decoration

Instructions

Mix Bean and Cream Cheese Layer: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the refried beans and softened cream cheese until smooth and well blended. Set this mixture aside.
Chill Mixture (Optional): For a firmer, chilled dip, refrigerate the bean and cream cheese mix for about 1 hour. This step is optional but helps the layers hold better.
Layer the Dip Cups: Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the bean and cream cheese mixture into the bottom of each individual cup as the first layer.
Add Guacamole: Using about 3 tablespoons per cup, add a generous layer of guacamole on top of the bean mixture.
Top with Sour Cream: Spoon approximately 2 tablespoons of sour cream over the guacamole layer in each cup.
Add Cheese and Veggies: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly, then scatter sliced black olives, diced tomatoes, and one sliced jalapeno per cup for a colorful and flavorful topping.
Garnish with Chips: Garnish each cup with a few nachos or tortilla chips for decoration and extra crunch.
Serve or Chill: Serve immediately for best texture, or refrigerate the cups until ready to serve if preparing in advance.

Notes

Use fresh guacamole or your favorite store-bought version for convenience.
Adjust jalapeno quantity based on preferred spice level.
These cups can be made a few hours ahead and kept covered in the refrigerator.
For a healthier twist, use reduced-fat cream cheese and cheddar.
Customize the toppings with your favorite ingredients like green onions or chopped cilantro.