Whole Wheat Tortillas

Name: Whole-Wheat Tortillas
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 26 min
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups whole-wheat flour (I used King Arthur’s white whole-wheat flour); 1/2 cup avocado oil (or other oil); 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup water (heated in the microwave for 1 min)

116 Reviews / 4.7 Average

Nothing compares to homemade tortillas, and this whole-wheat recipe is a family favorite! The added effort to make them is well justified by the flavor and texture that is far superior to the store-bought ones. I've adapted this recipe from Anson Mills

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Stack of freshly made whole wheat flour tortillas — *100 Days of Real Food Cookbook*, photo courtesy of Carrie Vitt

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Have you ever tried homemade whole wheat flour tortillas before? Let me just say that the taste and texture are far superior to tortillas that come in a plastic bag at the grocery store. Honestly, they don’t even deserve to be called tortillas compared to the real thing!

Luckily, the tastiness of homemade tortillas justifies the effort it takes to make them. Up until now, almost all the recipes I have posted have been easy to make, but I must admit that this one is definitely an exception to the rule.

Featured Comment

My family LOVED it and said to never buy tortillas again. I ordered a tortilla press as not rolling these out on a regular basis! :-)
- LeeAnn

Are Whole Wheat Tortillas Easy to Make?

I will also say that I actually tried a couple of different methods for making whole wheat tortillas, and this is the easy (easier) version. Please trust me when I tell you…it is worth it!

Once the dough has been made, it takes me about 30 minutes to roll out and cook a dozen of these tortillas. Everyone in my family (including me) practically scarfs them down as soon as I make them, and if used as wraps they can add some variety to your lunch over typical sandwich bread.

Tips for Rolling Out Homemade Tortillas

Let the dough rest. I find the dough is easier to work with if it's been resting for about 30 minutes (covered by a towel or plastic wrap) before I begin working with it.

Use a rolling pin. A rolling pin is the easiest way to spread out the dough properly to the correct thinness and shape.

cooking a flour tortilla in a cast iron skillet

What Can You Use Whole Grain Tortillas For?

My (now 15) 3-year-old’s favorite combination (which she lovingly called a “roll-up”) was to have hummus and cheese wrapped up in her tortilla. I actually love a “roll-up” myself, although I usually add diced tomatoes, cucumbers, or spinach to mine. My kids also just like to snack on plain tortillas too, and if you have time to make a big batch then you can freeze some for later!

Whole grain tortillas can also be used to replace a variety of breads in sandwiches or other snacks. Here are some fun ideas to try:

Tortilla Pizza

Use a homemade tortilla as pizza crust: Spread homemade pizza sauce (pasta sauce or anything similar you have also works fine) over the tortilla, then top with cheese, veggies, or cooked meat. This is an easy way for your kids to have a real food "pizza" snack with whole grain crust and reasonable portions. See the Tortilla Pizza recipe for more tips and tricks!

Whole Grain Tortilla Pinwheels

Pinwheels are another great snack for kids, especially picky eaters who need some coercing when it comes to vegetables. They’re also fun for parties and potlucks! Spread out your favorite fillings, roll up, and slice.

Quesadilla Style Grilled Cheese

You can also make these homemade veggie quesadillas with these whole wheat tortillas, but sometimes you just want some good ol' cheese. Thinly slice some organic cheese and place it on half of the tortilla. Fold and fry with a pat of butter until cheese melts.

You can also add vegetables like onions, zucchini, peppers, spinach, and tomatoes. Or, slice and serve with tomato soup.

Easy Breakfast Wraps

Breakfast wraps can be made fresh or ahead of time and frozen for an easy, filling breakfast idea. Add scrambled eggs, cheese, and your favorite meat and vegetables.

Can I Use This Recipe to Make Whole Wheat Tortilla Chips?

If you’re looking for a delicious, real food treat, these whole wheat tortillas can be baked into chips! It’s easy; no deep frying required. Enjoy on their own, or serve with fresh salsa.

Make the whole wheat tortillas following the recipe directions and let them cool.
Preheat the oven to 350 F.
While the oven heats, slice your tortillas into chip-sized pieces (about 6) with a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
Lightly spray or brush them with olive oil and lightly salt.
Bake for 7 minutes.
Flip the chips and lightly oil and season the other side.
Bake again for another 5-7 minutes, until crisp.

You can also make these chips in an air fryer. The method is the same, just adjust the cooking time to 3 minutes per side.

How to Store Whole Wheat Tortillas

Cool tortillas completely before storing them to keep them from getting mushy. Then just place them into an airtight container or bag and store in the fridge or freezer. Homemade tortillas will keep in the fridge for a week and can be frozen for up to 6 months.