Homemade Flour Tortillas Recipe

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like the taste of fresh, homemade flour tortillas. Whether you’re making tacos, burritos, or simply enjoying them warm with butter, these tortillas are soft, pliable, and packed with flavor. Store-bought tortillas just can’t compare!

This recipe is perfect for home cooks of all skill levels. With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have a stack of warm, homemade tortillas ready for your favorite dishes. Plus, once you try making your own, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Better Than Store-Bought: Homemade tortillas have a superior texture and taste compared to their store-bought counterparts.
  • Simple Ingredients: You only need five pantry staples to make this recipe.
  • Soft and Flexible: These tortillas roll and fold beautifully for tacos, burritos, and wraps.
  • Customizable: Adjust the thickness and size to your liking or experiment with different flavors.

Ingredients

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for kneading)
  • 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup butter (softened)
  • 1 cup hot water

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Pastry cutter or fork
  • Rolling pin
  • Skillet or griddle
  • Clean kitchen towel

Step-By-Step Instructions

Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Step 2: Incorporate the Butter

Cut the softened butter into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or fork until you achieve a crumb-like texture.

Step 3: Add Water & Form Dough

Pour the hot water into the mixture and stir until a dough forms.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 2-3 minutes. The dough should be soft and slightly less sticky after kneading.

Step 5: Let the Dough Rest

Form the dough into a ball, place it in a clean bowl, and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rest for 45-60 minutes.

Step 6: Divide & Roll Out

Cut the dough into 10 balls for burrito-sized tortillas or 16 balls for taco-sized tortillas. Flatten each ball, then roll it out into a thin circle using a rolling pin.

Step 7: Cook the Tortillas

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook each tortilla for 30-45 seconds on each side until golden brown spots appear.

Step 8: Keep Warm & Serve

Stack the cooked tortillas, covering them with a clean kitchen towel to keep them warm and moist. Serve fresh with your favorite fillings!

Tips for Success

  • Roll Thinly: The thinner you roll the dough, the softer and more pliable the tortillas will be.
  • Hot Skillet is Key: If your tortillas aren’t developing golden spots, your skillet may not be hot enough.
  • Don’t Overwork the Dough: Knead just until the dough is smooth to keep the tortillas tender.
  • Use a Cast Iron Skillet: It provides even heat and gives the best texture.

Storage & Reheating

Storing Leftovers

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Refrigerator: Keep in a sealed bag for up to a week.
  • Freezer: Separate tortillas with parchment paper and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating

  • Microwave: Wrap in a damp paper towel and heat for 15-20 seconds.
  • Stovetop: Warm in a dry skillet for 10-15 seconds per side.

Variations & Substitutions

  • Whole Wheat: Swap half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for a heartier tortilla.
  • Flavored Tortillas: Add garlic powder, dried herbs, or a touch of chili powder for extra flavor.
  • Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with vegetable shortening or coconut oil.

What to Serve with Homemade Tortillas

  • Tacos: Fill with grilled chicken, beef, or veggies.
  • Burritos: Load up with rice, beans, and your favorite fillings.
  • Quesadillas: Melt cheese between two tortillas for a quick snack.
  • Breakfast Wraps: Stuff with scrambled eggs, bacon, and avocado.

FAQ

Can I make these tortillas ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before rolling and cooking.

Why are my tortillas tough?

Over-kneading the dough or cooking them too long can make them tough. Keep the cooking time short and knead just until smooth.

Can I use oil instead of butter?

Yes, you can use vegetable oil or lard, but butter provides the best flavor.

How do I make perfectly round tortillas?

It takes practice! Use a rolling pin and roll in different directions, or use a tortilla press for uniform shapes.

Final Thoughts

Making homemade flour tortillas is easier than you think, and the result is well worth the effort. Whether you’re making tacos, burritos, or just enjoying them fresh off the skillet with butter, these tortillas will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

If you loved this recipe, share it with your friends and family! Don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more delicious recipes and kitchen tips. Happy cooking!

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