FLOUR TORTILLAS / how to make /PERFECT Step by Step ❤
If your homemade flour tortillas have been coming out stiff or crunchy, the issue isn’t the ingredients—it’s the technique. Proper mixing, kneading, resting, and cooking temperature are what make tortillas soft, pliable, and still tender the next day.
Ingredients
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3 cups all-purpose flour (loosely scooped)
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½ teaspoon baking powder
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1¾–2 teaspoons salt (to taste)
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3 tablespoons shortening
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1 cup hot water (plus up to 1 tablespoon more if needed)
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Extra flour for dusting
Instructions
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix thoroughly so everything is evenly distributed.
2. Cut in the Shortening
Add the shortening to the flour mixture. Using clean hands, rub it into the flour until it resembles very fine crumbs. This step is crucial for tender tortillas—take your time.
3. Add the Water
Gradually add the hot water a little at a time, mixing as you go, until a soft dough forms. You’ll usually need about 1 cup total, though humidity and weather can affect this.
4. Knead
Turn the dough out onto a clean surface and knead for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Proper kneading develops gluten and ensures soft tortillas.
5. Rest the Dough
Place the dough back in the bowl and cover with a lightly damp kitchen towel. Let rest for at least 30 minutes. This relaxes the gluten and makes rolling easier.
Shaping the Tortillas
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Pinch off dough pieces about the size of a small egg.
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Shape into smooth balls (“testales”).
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Lightly dust with flour and keep covered.
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This recipe yields about 12 tortillas, depending on size.
Rolling & Cooking
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Heat a cast-iron griddle over medium-high heat.
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Roll each dough ball from the center outward, rotating as you go, until thin.
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Place on the hot griddle. When bubbles form, let them expand slightly, then flip.
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Cook just until light brown spots appear on both sides. Do not overcook.
Cooling & Storage
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Lay tortillas flat to cool completely.
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Once cool, stack and store in a zip-top bag in the refrigerator.
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To reheat, warm briefly on a hot griddle—they’ll be soft and pliable again.
Serving Tip
For a classic treat, spread warm tortillas with butter and roll them up—just like homemade tortillas were meant to be enjoyed.
