Flour Tortillas | Easy Homemade Flour Tortilla Recipe

PUBLISHED October 27, 2025· MODIFIED October 27, 2025 · by the author listed in the recipe card 1471 words. · About 8 minutes to read this article.· This post may contain affiliate links · As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases· Leave a Comment

Unlock the secret to making the most delicious homemade flour tortillas with this easy-to-follow recipe. Delight your taste buds with the authentic flavor and soft texture of these tortillas that will elevate any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Version

Authentic Flavor. Experience the true taste of Mexican cuisine with these homemade flour tortillas. Made with simple ingredients, they capture the essence of traditional tortillas found in the heart of Mexico.
Versatility. Whether you’re wrapping them around savory fillings for tacos or using them as a base for quesadillas, these flour tortillas are incredibly versatile and can complement a wide range of dishes.
Soft and Tender. Unlike store-bought tortillas that can sometimes be dry and brittle, these homemade tortillas are soft, tender, and perfect for folding or rolling without cracking.
Easy to Make. With just a few basic ingredients and a simple cooking process, you can whip up a batch of these homemade tortillas in no time.

With this easy homemade flour tortilla recipe, you can enjoy the authentic flavor and soft texture of traditional tortillas right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re making tacos, quesadillas, or wraps, these versatile tortillas are sure to impress.

Why Won’t My Tortillas Puff Up?

If your flour tortillas aren’t puffing up properly, here are a few common reasons why:

Incorrect Dough Consistency. The dough should be soft and pliable but not too sticky. If it’s too dry, the tortillas may not puff up during cooking. Add a little more water to the dough to achieve the right consistency.
Inadequate Resting Time. Allowing the dough to rest before rolling it out is crucial for gluten development, which helps the tortillas puff up when cooked. Make sure to let the dough rest for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out.
Cooking Temperature. Cooking the tortillas on too low or too high heat can prevent them from puffing up properly. Aim for a medium-high heat and make sure the skillet or griddle is well-heated before cooking each tortilla.

Are Flour Tortillas Healthy?

While flour tortillas can fit into a healthy diet when consumed in moderation and paired with nutritious fillings, it’s essential to consider factors such as portion size, ingredient quality, and overall meal composition.

What Are Flour Tortillas Made Of?

All-Purpose Flour– Provides the base for the tortilla dough, giving it structure and texture.
Salt– Enhances the flavor of the tortillas and helps strengthen the gluten in the dough.
Baking Powder– Adds a slight leavening effect, helping the tortillas puff up when cooked.
Vegetable Shortening– Contributes to the tenderness and flakiness of the tortillas.
Warm Water– Binds the dough together and hydrates the flour, creating a smooth and elastic texture.

How To Make Flour Tortillas

Prepare the Dough. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder. Add the vegetable shortening and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the warm water, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Knead the Dough. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for a few minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Divide the dough into equal-sized balls and let them rest for about 30 minutes, covered with a clean kitchen towel.
Roll Out the Tortillas. On a floured surface, roll out each dough ball into a thin, round tortilla using a rolling pin. Aim for a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
Cook the Tortillas. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Cook each tortilla for about 30 seconds to 1 minute on each side, or until lightly browned and puffed up. Keep cooked tortillas warm in a clean kitchen towel while you cook the remaining ones.
Serve and Enjoy. Once all the tortillas are cooked, serve them warm with your favorite fillings or dishes. Enjoy the authentic flavor and soft texture of these homemade flour tortillas!

Tips And Tricks

Making homemade flour tortillas can be a rewarding and delicious experience. Here are some tips and tricks to help you achieve the best results:

Rest the Dough. After kneading, allow the dough to rest for about 30 minutes. This resting period allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out and shaping the tortillas.
Divide the Dough Evenly. Divide the dough into equal-sized portions to ensure that your tortillas are uniform in size and thickness. This will help them cook evenly and look more professional.
Roll the Tortillas Thinly. Roll out the dough as thinly as possible for soft and pliable tortillas. Aim for a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm) for the best results.

Variations

Homemade flour tortillas are versatile and can be customized in various ways to suit different tastes and preferences. Here are some delicious variations to try:

Whole Wheat- Substitute part or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber. Start by replacing about half of the flour and adjust based on your preference.
Herb and Garlic- Add chopped fresh herbs, such as cilantro, parsley, or basil, and minced garlic to the dough for an aromatic twist. These flavorful tortillas pair well with Mexican-inspired dishes or as a base for wraps and sandwiches.
Spicy- Add a kick of heat to your tortillas by incorporating finely chopped jalapenos, green chilies, or chipotle peppers in adobo sauce into the dough. Adjust the amount of spice to your liking for a bold and flavorful tortilla.
Cheesy- Mix shredded cheese, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack, into the dough for cheesy tortillas that are perfect for quesadillas, burritos, or as a side dish. The cheese adds richness and flavor to the tortillas.

What To Use Flour Tortillas For

Flour tortillas are incredibly versatile and can be used in various ways to create delicious and satisfying meals. Here are some popular uses for them:

Tacos- Flour tortillas are a classic choice for making tacos. Fill them with your favorite protein and add toppings for a flavorful and customizable meal.
Quesadillas– Quesadillas are quick and easy to make, perfect for a simple lunch or dinner.
Burritos– Wrap up your favorite fillings in a large flour tortilla to make a hearty and portable meal.
Wraps– Flour tortillas make excellent wraps for creating sandwiches and wraps for on-the-go meals.

How Long Do They Last?

Store homemade flour tortillas in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps to keep them fresh and prevents them from drying out too quickly.

Place a piece of parchment paper or wax paper between each tortilla to prevent them from sticking together. This makes it easier to separate them when you’re ready to use them.

Can You Freeze Them?

If you’re not planning to use the tortillas within a few days, you can freeze them for longer-term storage. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place them in a freezer-safe bag, and store them in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Thaw them in the refrigerator or at room temperature before reheating.

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