There’s something deeply satisfying about making homemade flour tortillas from scratch. They’re soft, warm, and chewy, with a texture and taste that store-bought versions simply can’t match. Whether you’re wrapping them around spicy grilled chicken, using them to scoop up creamy guacamole, or layering them into a hearty burrito, these tortillas elevate every dish they touch.
These tortillas are incredibly easy to make using just a handful of pantry staples. No need for special equipment or hard-to-find ingredients—just mix, knead, roll, and cook. The result is a pliable, flavorful flatbread that’s perfect for everything from tacos to quesadillas.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Made with five everyday ingredients
- No yeast or rising time needed
- Versatile for lunch, dinner, or snacks
- Customizable with herbs or spices
- Perfect for freezing and reheating
- Far more flavorful than packaged tortillas
These homemade flour tortillas are ideal for anyone who wants to cut out preservatives, control their ingredients, or simply enjoy the unbeatable taste of fresh, warm bread.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you begin, make sure your kitchen is set up with the right tools and workspace. Although this recipe is beginner-friendly, using the correct tools will make the process smoother and your tortillas more consistent.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large mixing bowl or stand mixer with dough hook
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rolling pin (or tortilla press, if available)
- Cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan
- Kitchen scale (optional but helpful for consistency)
- Damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap
Why Each Tool Matters
- Stand mixer: Speeds up kneading and ensures uniform dough.
- Cast iron skillet: Retains heat for even cooking and perfect browning.
- Rolling pin: Helps you roll thin, uniform tortillas.
- Kitchen scale: Ensures equal dough portions, resulting in evenly sized tortillas.
Preparation Tips
- Don’t skip the resting period. It allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll and more elastic.
- Adjust water or flour as needed. Dough should be soft and supple, not sticky or dry.
- Preheat your skillet thoroughly. A hot surface is key to getting those signature golden-brown spots.
- Roll evenly. Turn the dough while rolling to create round, uniform tortillas.
Ingredients List
Organized for ease during preparation:
- 2 cups (283g) unbleached all-purpose flour, scooped and leveled
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- ¾ cup warm water
Optional variations:
- Substitute olive oil for a richer flavor.
- Add 1 tsp garlic powder or chili flakes for seasoned tortillas.
Step-by-Step Directions
- Mix the dry ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. - Incorporate wet ingredients
Add the vegetable oil and warm water. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. - Knead the dough
- Stand mixer: Knead on medium speed for 2 minutes using the dough hook.
- By hand: Knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Adjust consistency: Add flour 1 tablespoon at a time if sticky; add a bit of water if too dry.
- Rest the dough
Place in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap. Let rest at room temperature for 1 hour. - Divide and shape
Divide into 10 equal pieces. Roll each into a smooth ball. Cover and let rest for another 10 minutes. - Roll out the tortillas
On a lightly floured surface, roll each ball into a 6-inch circle. Rotate while rolling to maintain roundness. - Cook the tortillas
Preheat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Place one tortilla at a time in the skillet.- Cook for 20–30 seconds on the first side until bubbles form and golden spots appear.
- Flip and cook for another 15–20 seconds.
- Avoid overcooking to keep tortillas soft.
- Steam and store
Transfer cooked tortillas to a resealable bag or container lined with a paper towel. Cover immediately to steam and keep them soft.
Best Ways to Serve Homemade Flour Tortillas
One of the best things about homemade flour tortillas is how versatile they are. Their soft, chewy texture and neutral flavor make them the perfect canvas for a wide variety of meals. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, hosting taco night, or prepping lunch wraps, these tortillas adapt beautifully to any occasion.
Popular Ways to Serve:
- Tacos – Fold warm tortillas around grilled meats, beans, or vegetables, and top with fresh salsa, onions, and cilantro.
- Burritos – Fill with rice, beans, cheese, and your choice of protein for a hearty handheld meal.
- Quesadillas – Stuff with melted cheese and pan-fry for a crispy, golden exterior.
- Enchiladas – Roll around a savory filling, place in a baking dish, cover with sauce and cheese, and bake.
- Breakfast wraps – Scrambled eggs, sausage, cheese, and avocado make the perfect morning wrap.
- Tortilla chips – Cut into triangles, bake or fry until crisp, and serve with guacamole or salsa.
- Flatbread pizza base – Top with sauce, cheese, and toppings, then broil until bubbly.
- Sandwich wraps – Use in place of sandwich bread for a lighter, portable lunch option.
Homemade tortillas are ideal for both casual meals and creative twists on classic recipes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with a simple recipe like homemade flour tortillas, a few key missteps can affect the final result. Understanding these common pitfalls can help ensure every batch turns out soft, flexible, and delicious.
1. Using cold water
Warm water helps relax the gluten and hydrates the flour better. Cold water may make the dough stiff and hard to knead.
2. Skipping the resting period
Resting allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll and preventing shrinkage. Skipping this step often leads to thick or uneven tortillas.
3. Over-kneading or under-kneading
Too much kneading can toughen the dough, while under-kneading may result in uneven texture. Aim for a smooth, soft dough that feels elastic but not sticky.
4. Cooking at the wrong temperature
A skillet that’s too hot will burn the tortillas before they cook through. If it’s too cool, they’ll dry out. Medium-high heat is ideal for producing light brown spots while keeping them soft.
5. Overcooking the tortillas
Cooking too long will make them brittle. Keep each side on the skillet for no more than 30 seconds. They should puff slightly and develop golden spots without turning crisp.
6. Not steaming after cooking
Immediately covering the cooked tortillas helps trap steam, keeping them pliable and soft. If left uncovered, they may dry out quickly.
Side Dish Recommendations
Pairing homemade flour tortillas with the right sides can turn your meal into a full experience. Here are eight delicious options that complement the warm, fresh flavors of your tortillas.
1. Mexican Rice
Lightly spiced and tomato-flavored, this classic side is perfect inside burritos or served alongside tacos.
2. Refried Beans
Creamy, savory beans add protein and richness to any tortilla-based meal. Great for layering in quesadillas or serving on the side.
3. Fresh Guacamole
The creamy texture and tangy flavor of avocado pair beautifully with soft tortillas, especially when topped with pico de gallo.
4. Salsa Verde or Pico de Gallo
Whether you prefer a green tomatillo salsa or a chunky tomato-onion mix, fresh salsa adds brightness and heat.
5. Cilantro Lime Slaw
A crisp, refreshing slaw made with shredded cabbage, cilantro, lime juice, and a touch of honey or mayo. Adds crunch and acidity to rich fillings.
6. Grilled Vegetables
Zucchini, bell peppers, and onions add smoky depth and a healthy twist to tacos or wraps.
7. Elote (Mexican Street Corn)
Corn on the cob slathered with crema, cheese, chili powder, and lime—a bold, flavorful side dish that screams street food comfort.
8. Black Bean Salad
A zesty mix of black beans, corn, red pepper, and lime. Works well as a topping or a refreshing side.
These side dishes are easy to prepare and highlight the flavor and texture of your homemade flour tortillas without overpowering them.
Recipe Tips and Easy Variations
Small tweaks can make a big difference in flavor and texture. Here are a few ideas to personalize your tortillas:
1. Use Olive Oil Instead of Vegetable Oil
For a richer, more Mediterranean flavor, swap in extra virgin olive oil.
2. Add Seasonings to the Dough
Try mixing in a teaspoon of garlic powder, smoked paprika, or cumin to infuse flavor directly into the tortilla.
3. Make Them Whole Wheat
Replace half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. You may need to add a bit more water to adjust for the higher absorption.
4. Try a Gluten-Free Version
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to let the dough rest slightly longer and handle gently, as gluten-free doughs can be more delicate.
5. Make Larger or Smaller Tortillas
Divide the dough into fewer pieces for larger wraps, or more pieces for mini tacos.
6. Flavored Tortillas
Blend spinach, beet juice, or turmeric into the dough for naturally colored and flavored tortillas.
These variations allow you to customize the recipe to suit dietary needs, flavor preferences, and different types of meals.
How to Store and Reheat Homemade Flour Tortillas
Fresh tortillas are best enjoyed warm, but they store surprisingly well when handled correctly.
Storing at Room Temperature
Keep cooled tortillas in an airtight container or resealable bag for up to 2–3 days. Include a paper towel inside the bag to absorb excess moisture.
Refrigerating
Store in the fridge for up to 1 week. Make sure they are completely cool before sealing to avoid condensation, which can lead to sogginess.
Freezing
To freeze, place parchment paper between each tortilla to prevent sticking. Store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for 30–60 minutes.
Reheating Options
- Skillet: Heat each tortilla for 15–20 seconds per side over medium heat to restore softness and warmth.
- Microwave: Wrap a few tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 10–15 seconds.
- Oven: Wrap in foil and warm in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes.
Proper reheating keeps tortillas soft and pliable, as if they were just made.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use butter instead of oil?
Yes, melted butter works well and adds a richer flavor, though it may slightly change the texture.
Why are my tortillas hard?
Overcooking or using too little water can make tortillas dry and stiff. Be sure to cook only until light brown spots appear and keep them covered to steam.
How do I make tortillas more stretchy?
Resting the dough for at least an hour and using warm water helps create a more elastic texture.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes. You can store the dough, tightly wrapped, in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before rolling and cooking.
What type of flour works best?
Unbleached all-purpose flour offers the best balance of texture and softness. Avoid self-rising flour as it may alter the rise and flavor.
Are tortillas supposed to puff up?
Yes. Puffing is a good sign the dough is cooking evenly and has proper hydration. Pressing gently with a spatula can help if they’re not puffing.
Can I freeze the cooked tortillas?
Absolutely. Separate them with parchment and store in a freezer bag. Reheat directly from frozen.
How do I keep tortillas soft after cooking?
Stack them and place in a covered container or a kitchen towel-lined basket to retain steam and prevent drying.
Are these tortillas vegan?
Yes. This recipe contains no dairy or animal products, making it 100% vegan.
Do I need a tortilla press?
No. A rolling pin works perfectly well. A tortilla press is optional but can make the process faster and more uniform.
Conclusion
Homemade flour tortillas offer unbeatable freshness, flexibility, and flavor with very little effort. Once you try them warm off the skillet, it’s hard to go back to store-bought versions. With a few simple ingredients, some basic tools, and a little practice, you’ll have soft, chewy tortillas ready for any dish.
Whether you use them for tacos, burritos, quesadillas, or wraps, these tortillas are a staple worth mastering. Don’t forget to try the variations and side pairings to create your perfect meal.
For more ideas, check out our recipes for homemade guacamole, vegetarian burrito bowls, and spicy black bean tacos.
Homemade Flour Tortillas
Ingredients
- 2 cups 283g unbleached all-purpose flour (scooped and leveled)
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- ¾ cup warm water
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In the bowl of a stand mixer, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the vegetable oil and warm water. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
Knead the Dough:
- Using a stand mixer with a dough hook, knead on medium speed for 2 minutes.
- If kneading by hand, knead for about 5 minutes until the dough is soft and supple.
- If dough is sticky, add flour 1 tablespoon at a time. If too dry, add 1–2 tablespoons of water.
- Rest the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let it rest at room temperature for 1 hour.
- Divide and Shape: Divide dough into 10 equal pieces (or fewer for larger tortillas). Roll each into a ball and place on a greased plate. Cover and rest for 10 minutes.
- Preheat Skillet: Heat a dry cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
- Roll the Tortillas: On a lightly floured surface, roll each dough ball into a 6-inch round. Turn and flip to prevent sticking. Keep remaining balls covered.
Cook the Tortillas:
- Place the rolled tortilla in the hot skillet. Cook for 20–30 seconds, until bubbles form and golden spots appear underneath.
- Flip and cook the other side for about 15 seconds.
- Avoid overcooking to keep them soft.
- Steam and Store: Transfer cooked tortillas to an airtight container or resealable bag lined with a paper towel. Seal to let them steam and stay soft while cooking the rest.
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