There’s something undeniably comforting about a fresh, warm tortilla—soft, pliable, with just the right amount of chew. Whether you’re building a burrito, making a wrap, or serving them with a sizzling plate of fajitas, homemade flour tortillas add an authentic, flavorful touch that store-bought versions simply can’t match. Best of all, they’re surprisingly easy to make with just a handful of pantry staples.
In this recipe, you’ll learn how to create perfect homemade tortillas with step-by-step guidance, essential tips for getting the texture just right, and suggestions on how to serve them for any meal.
Table of Contents
Ingredients and Their Roles
1. All-Purpose Flour (3 cups)
The foundation of the dough, all-purpose flour provides the structure and soft texture that makes tortillas pliable yet strong enough to hold fillings.
2. Baking Powder (1 teaspoon)
This leavening agent helps create slight puffiness in the tortillas, giving them a soft, airy feel while keeping them flat enough to roll.
3. Salt (1 teaspoon)
Salt enhances the overall flavor of the tortillas, balancing the neutral taste of the flour and adding subtle depth.
4. Lard or Vegetable Shortening (1/3 cup)
Traditionally made with lard, this fat ensures a rich, tender bite and contributes to the tortillas’ soft texture. You can substitute with vegetable shortening or butter for a vegetarian-friendly option.
5. Warm Water (1 cup)
Warm water helps activate the baking powder and binds the ingredients together into a smooth, elastic dough.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix well to evenly distribute the baking powder and salt throughout the flour.
Step 2: Incorporate the Fat
Add the lard or shortening to the flour mixture. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend the fat into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is key to creating a tender dough.
Step 3: Add Water and Knead
Gradually pour in the warm water, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms. Transfer to a floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes, until the dough is smooth, elastic, and no longer sticky.
Step 4: Rest the Dough
Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for 30 minutes. This resting period allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out.
Step 5: Divide and Roll
After resting, divide the dough into 12 equal pieces for taco-sized tortillas or 8 pieces for burrito-sized ones. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten slightly. Using a rolling pin on a lightly floured surface, roll each ball into a thin, even circle about 6–8 inches in diameter.
Step 6: Cook the Tortillas
Heat a dry cast-iron skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Place one tortilla in the skillet and cook for about 30–45 seconds per side, or until light brown spots form and the tortilla puffs slightly. Avoid overcooking, as this can make them stiff.
Step 7: Keep Warm
Transfer cooked tortillas to a towel-lined plate and cover to keep them soft and warm while you finish the batch.
Why This Recipe Is Loved
- Incredibly fresh and flavorful, with a soft, pillowy texture
- No preservatives or additives—just five simple ingredients
- Versatile: perfect for tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and more
- Quick and easy: ready in under an hour, including resting time
- Customizable: make them larger or smaller depending on your needs
Pro Tips for Perfect Tortillas
Use warm (not hot) water: This helps hydrate the flour without cooking it, ensuring a smooth dough.
Don’t skip the resting period: This step makes a big difference in rollability and texture.
Roll evenly and thinly: Uneven dough won’t cook uniformly. Aim for thin but not paper-thin rounds.
Avoid adding too much flour when rolling: Too much extra flour can make tortillas dry.
Keep them covered: After cooking, stack the tortillas and cover them with a towel to trap steam and keep them soft.
Serving Suggestions
Breakfast: Fill with scrambled eggs, cheese, and avocado for a protein-packed breakfast burrito.
Lunch: Use as a wrap for grilled chicken, fresh greens, and a drizzle of creamy dressing.
Dinner: Serve warm alongside fajitas, chili, or your favorite Mexican entrée.
Snack: Spread with peanut butter and honey or roll up with cheese for a quick bite.
Final Thoughts
There’s no comparison between store-bought and fresh, homemade flour tortillas. With their irresistibly soft texture and rich, warm flavor, they elevate any dish and bring a touch of homemade authenticity to your table. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a kitchen beginner, this simple and satisfying recipe is one you’ll return to again and again.
Ditch the plastic-wrapped versions—these tortillas are easy, delicious, and undeniably better. Try them once, and you’ll never go back.
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