The Secrets To The Best SOFT FLOUR Tortillas

Soft flour tortillas—so simple, yet so complicated. Want to know the real secrets to soft, flexible flour tortillas—just like my Mexican grandmother makes? The best ever homemade soft flour tortillas are easier than you think. Let me share my secrets that will help you. The first is to make sure the dough has enough moisture and is soft. The second secret is to rest the dough long enough for the gluten to relax. The best advice my Mexican grandmother gave me is practice makes perfect. This recipe helps me to achieve the perfect flour tortilla made right at home. They’re warm, pliable, and perfect for tacos, burritos, or quesadillas. No more cracking or breaking—just soft, steamy tortillas every time. This method brings them to life with flavor and authenticity. Passed down from generations, this is abuela-approved tortilla magic.

I love it when the tortilla dough cooks and puffs. This is a great indication that your tortilla dough is well rested and the griddle is the perfect temperature.

Here's a step by step entertaining video to help you achieve soft flour tortillas!

The written recipe is available in my cookbook.

Simply Mama Cooks: Food Cooked With A Mama's Love

INGREDIENTS

3 cups all purpose flour (400 grams flour)

2 tsp baking powder (7.5 grams baking powder)

8 oz hot water (236.59 ml water ) *extra if needed*

1/3 cup butter, lard or shortening (65 grams) *use only 1/4 cup (59 ml) if using oil*

1 tsp salt (5 grams salt)

TIPS FOR SOFT TORTILLAS

*Be sure the dough is moist and slightly tacky before kneading.

*IF the dough is still too wet, add a tablespoon of flour at a time, until workable

*Be sure to knead for 10 to 15 minutes dough should be smooth and soft after kneading

*Be sure to rest for 15 minutes to allow the gluten in the flour to relax which helps the tortilla to bubble while cooking

*Try to roll out your tortilla thin

*Over use of flour during the roll-out process may change the texture

*How long will they stay soft?*

These are best eaten within the first hour.

*How to store homemade tortillas for the next day?*

Store them in an air-tight baggie on the counter or fridge.

*How do I reheat tortillas to stay soft?*

You can wrap them in a damp cloth and microwave for the maximum next-day softness. You could also *quickly* reheat on a hot griddle, but they will start to lose the soft texture and dry out.

*Can I freeze the tortilla dough to cook later?*

Yes, but roll them out first, layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking to each other.

Holding a fresh warm stack of homemade soft flour tortillas.