Simple and Easy Homemade Tortillas
- yourheartandhome
- Apr 8
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 22

Making your own tortillas at home brings a unique joy. They not only taste fresher than those from the store, but the process itself is an enjoyable and fulfilling kitchen activity. Today, I'm thrilled to present an easy recipe for homemade tortillas, highlighting my favorite key ingredient: butter!
The Joy of Homemade Tortillas
In an age of convenience foods, making tortillas from scratch is a charming nod to traditional cooking. Whether you use them for breakfast burritos, hearty wraps, or taco nights, homemade tortillas enhance every meal.
Using butter brings a rich flavor and tender texture that store-bought tortillas can't match. Plus, the method is so easy that anyone, even those new to cooking, can impress their family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we get started, gather the essential ingredients. You will need:
2 cups of all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1 teaspoon of baking powder
1/4 cup of unsalted butter (melted) or vegetable oil
3/4 cup of warm water
Chances are, these staples are already in your pantry, making this a quick and simple recipe!
Making the Dough
Start by adding the flour, salt, and baking powder into a large mixing bowl. Whisk these dry ingredients together until combined.
Next, pour in the melted butter. Use a spoon or your hands to mix until the butter is evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture.
Gradually add warm water while stirring until you form a soft dough. Depending on the humidity, you may need slightly more or less water, so add it slowly to avoid getting it too sticky.
Knead the dough for about 5 minutes on a lightly floured surface until smooth and elastic. This is a key step, as it helps develop the perfect texture for your tortillas.
Resting Time
Once you've kneaded the dough, let it rest. Place it in a bowl, covering it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Rest for approximately 30 minutes to allow the gluten to relax, which results in softer tortillas that roll out more easily.
While you wait, prep your fillings or toppings—options like grilled chicken, fresh veggies, or homemade salsa can enhance your meal!
Shaping Your Tortillas
After the dough has rested, divide it into about 8 equal portions, adjusting based on your preferred tortilla size. Roll each portion into a ball and allow them to sit for an additional 10 minutes.
Now for the fun part! Grab a rolling pin and roll each ball out on a lightly floured surface. Aim for a thin, circular shape (think pizza!). Don't worry if they're not perfectly round—these little imperfections add character.
Cooking the Tortillas
Preheat a dry skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place a tortilla in the pan. Cook for about 30 seconds or until small bubbles form and the bottom develops light brown spots. Flip it over and cook for another 30 seconds.
You'll be surprised at how rapidly the process unfolds! Keep the cooked tortillas warm in a towel or a tortilla warmer as you finish the rest.
Enjoy Your Homemade Tortillas
Congratulations! You now have a stack of fresh, buttery tortillas ready for your favorite fillings. They’re versatile—use them for wraps, quesadillas, or even as a personal pizza base!
The taste difference is substantial, and making them yourself adds a sense of accomplishment. Serve warm and enjoy the delight from family and friends as they appreciate your culinary skills.
Mastering Tortillas at Home
Crafting homemade tortillas is not just about food; it's about connecting with the food you put in your body. This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for anyone who enjoys cooking from scratch.
Pair these tortillas with your preferred fillings, and you’ll never look at store-bought versions the same way again.
Try this recipe and let the joy of homemade tortillas become a favorite in your kitchen. By creating these homemade delights, you're not just preparing a meal; you're enhancing your dining experience, bite by delicious bite. Enjoy!
Happy cooking!
1
Storage
Store leftover tortillas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for longer storage.
2
Optional Additions
You can add finely chopped herbs or spices to the flour for flavored tortillas.
3
Perfect Roll
If the dough is sticking to the rolling pin, lightly flour the pin and countertop.
Notes



1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder. Whisk them together until well mixed.



2
Add the vegetable oil and warm water to the dry ingredients. Stir with a spoon or your hands until the mixture forms a dough.



3
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.



4
Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball.



5
Flatten each ball with your hand, then use a rolling pin to roll it out into a thin, round circle, about 8 inches in diameter.



6
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Cook each tortilla for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until brown spots appear.



7
Keep the cooked tortillas warm in a towel or tortilla warmer while you cook the remaining dough.
Instructions
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
Dry Ingredients
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
3/4 cup warm water
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