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The Ultimate Soft & Pliable 3-Ingredient Homemade Corn Tortillas (Gluten-Free & Vegan)

A stack of freshly cooked, soft corn tortillas wrapped partially in a white towel on a wooden surface.

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I am so glad you are here. Learn the simple steps to make authentic, soft, and pliable homemade corn tortillas from scratch using just Masa Harina and water. These fresh tortillas are perfect for tacos and enchiladas.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups Masa Harina (for corn tortillas)
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the Masa Harina and salt, if using.
  2. Gradually add the warm water to the dry ingredients, mixing with your hands until a soft dough forms. You may need to add a little more water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough holds together without crumbling.
  3. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it is smooth and no longer sticky. The dough should feel like playdough.
  4. Divide the dough into 12 equal balls, about 1 ounce each. Roll each piece between your palms to form a smooth ball.
  5. Cover the dough balls with a damp cloth or plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out while you work.
  6. If you have a tortilla press, place one dough ball between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper inside the press. Press firmly until the dough flattens into a thin circle, about 5 to 6 inches in diameter.
  7. If you do not have a press, place a dough ball between two sheets of plastic wrap on a cutting board. Use the bottom of a heavy pan or a rolling pin to flatten the dough into a thin circle.
  8. Heat a dry cast iron skillet or griddle (comal) over medium-high heat until it is hot. Do not add oil.
  9. Carefully peel the tortilla from the plastic and place it on the hot skillet. Cook for 30 seconds until bubbles start to form.
  10. Flip the tortilla and cook the second side for about 1 minute until light brown spots appear.
  11. Flip one last time and cook for 30 seconds more. The tortilla should puff slightly.
  12. Remove the tortilla from the heat and immediately wrap it in a clean kitchen towel or place it in a tortilla warmer to keep it soft and pliable.
  13. Repeat with the remaining dough balls. Serve your fresh corn tortillas immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • To keep your tortillas soft after cooking, stack them while still warm and wrap them tightly in a clean kitchen towel. This traps the steam and prevents cracking.
  • If your dough feels too dry while pressing, wet your hands slightly. If it feels too sticky, add a tiny pinch more Masa Harina.
  • For the softest results, use warm water when mixing the dough.
  • If you need to reheat tortillas later, warm them briefly in a dry skillet or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 15-20 seconds.

Nutrition

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