Homemade Flour Tortilla

Save this recipe on:

Soft, pliable, and perfectly chewy—homemade flour tortillas are easier to make than you might think. There’s nothing like the aroma of fresh tortillas cooking on a hot skillet, puffing up slightly and turning golden in spots. Whether you’re wrapping up sizzling fajitas, layering enchiladas, or simply slathering them with butter, these tortillas are a kitchen essential.

Made with just a handful of pantry staples, this recipe yields tortillas that are far superior to anything store-bought. The best part? You don’t need a tortilla press or any fancy equipment—just a rolling pin and a hot pan.

What Kind of Flour Should I Use for Flour Tortillas?

For classic, soft tortillas, all-purpose flour is your best bet. It creates the right balance of elasticity and tenderness. You could experiment with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor, but all-purpose keeps it traditional and neutral—perfect for both savory and sweet fillings.

Ingredients for the Homemade Flour Tortilla

• All-Purpose Flour: The structural base, providing gluten to make the dough stretchy yet soft.
• Baking Powder: Adds a bit of lift, giving the tortillas slight puffiness.
• Salt: Essential for flavor. Don’t skip it.
• Neutral Oil or Shortening: Helps tenderize the dough and keeps it pliable. Vegetable oil or lard are both great options.
• Warm Water: Activates the gluten and brings the dough together smoothly.

---

How To Make the Homemade Flour Tortilla

Step 1: Make the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add oil and stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually pour in warm water and mix until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Knead and Rest

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes to relax the gluten—this helps make the dough easier to roll.

Step 3: Divide and Roll

Divide the dough into 10-12 equal portions and roll them into balls. Using a floured rolling pin, roll each ball into a thin, round disc about 7-8 inches in diameter.

Step 4: Cook the Tortillas

Heat a dry cast-iron skillet or nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Cook one tortilla at a time for about 45 seconds on the first side, until bubbles form. Flip and cook another 30-45 seconds until golden spots appear. Stack cooked tortillas in a clean kitchen towel to keep warm and soft.

---

How to Serve and Store Homemade Flour Tortillas

Serve warm straight from the skillet, or keep them wrapped in a towel or tortilla warmer to retain softness. These tortillas are ideal for tacos, burritos, quesadillas, or even breakfast wraps.

To store: Let them cool completely, then place in an airtight bag or container. Refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze with parchment between each for up to 2 months. Reheat on a dry skillet or microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel.

What to Serve With Homemade Flour Tortilla?

Grilled Chicken Fajitas

Sizzling peppers and spiced chicken are a tortilla’s best friend.

Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts

Perfect for a comforting wrap with spinach and cheese.

Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage

Use the tortilla as a soft taco shell for a fun twist.

Classic Chicken Salad

Wrap it up with crunchy lettuce for a quick, satisfying lunch.

Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs

A smoky, tender filling that pairs deliciously with homemade tortillas.

Mexican Tortilla Casserole

Use these tortillas in place of store-bought for next-level flavor.

Chipotle Chicken Bowl with Black Beans

Scoop up hearty bites with a warm tortilla on the side.

---

Want More Bread Ideas with a Twist?

If you love these homemade flour tortillas, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

• Lusciously Soft Lemon Rolls for a bright citrus breakfast.
• Fluffy Pancakes that stack like clouds.
• Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells if you’re craving a cozy pasta night.
• Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese with ultra gooey layers.
• Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites for a sweet morning indulgence.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest bread board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use lard or oil? Did you go classic or add herbs?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on ChefAlchemy’s Recipes and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Find more everyday cooking inspiration over on our Pinterest board where I share new recipes daily.

---

Print

Save this recipe on: