Five Effective Ways to Ripen Avocados (and One Common Myth)

4 Simple Ways to Ripen Avocados (and 1 Myth)

Avocados are not just creamy and delicious—they’re also packed with heart-healthy fats. Whether you’re planning to toss them in salads, whip up a tasty guacamole, or simply top your sandwich, nothing is more frustrating than unripe avocados slowing you down. Ever wondered how you can speed up their ripening process naturally? Let’s dive into some easy tips and clear up one common misconception along the way.

How Do Avocados Ripen?

Unlike many fruits, avocados don’t ripen while still on the tree. They begin transforming only after they’ve been picked. Similar to bananas, pears, and tomatoes, avocados are known as climacteric fruits. This means they produce a natural hormone called ethylene—a gas that kick-starts the ripening process, softening the fruit and developing that rich, buttery flavor we all love.

4 Easy Ways to Speed Up Ripening

• Wrap in a Brown Paper Bag or Newspaper: Enclose your avocado in a breathable material like a paper bag or newspaper. This traps the ethylene gas it naturally produces, helping it ripen fully in about 3–4 days. (Tip: Avoid plastic bags unless you leave them partially open so the fruit can “breathe.”)
• Keep It in a Warm Spot: Temperature plays a huge role. Storing your avocado in a warm area—say around 68℉ (20℃) like your pantry—encourages faster ripening compared to cooler places.
• Pair It with Bananas: Bananas produce plenty of ethylene, so placing an avocado near them can fast-track its ripening. Within 1–2 days in a warm area, you could see a noticeable change. Just be sure to check often to avoid overripeness.
• Wrap Cut Avocado in Cling Wrap: If you happen to cut into an unripe avocado, don’t worry! Simply press the pieces back together, wrap them in cling wrap, and store in the refrigerator. This not only minimizes moisture loss but allows the fruit to continue ripening at a slower pace.

Myth Debunked: Heating Doesn’t Really Ripen Avocados

You might have read that microwaving or briefly heating an avocado can speed up ripening. While this method may soften the fruit—making it convenient for a quick dip—research shows that heat does not truly ripen an avocado. The fruit may lose some of its optimal texture and nutritional benefits. In short, for that genuinely buttery flavor, patience (and a little ethylene help) is key.

The Bottom Line

Avocados rely on the natural release of ethylene gas to reach their perfect state. By using simple techniques like enclosing them in a paper bag, placing them in a warm area, or pairing with bananas, you can effectively speed up the ripening process. And if your avocado is already cut, a quick wrap in cling wrap lets it continue to ripen slowly in the fridge.

Here's a fun challenge: Try placing an underripe avocado in a brown paper bag alongside a ripe banana. Check on it daily for 3–4 days, and once perfectly ripe, use any overripe bananas to whip up a tasty banana bread or pancake. Does it make you curious about how natural processes can work wonders in your kitchen?